ABSTRACT
Background Flaxseed contains many phytoestrogens that share structural similarities with endogenous estrogens. It has beneficial properties that improve hormonal effects that may influence chronic disorders. Objective This study aims to evaluate the impact of flaxseed supplementation on perimenopausal syndrome symptoms and serum polyphenol metabolites enterodiol (ED) and enterolactone (EL). Methods Recruitment of 145 perimenopausal women from Queen Mary's Hospital OPD in K.G.M.U. Lucknow, India, was done for this single-blind randomized placebo-controlled experiment, considering inclusion and exclusion criteria. We randomly divided subjects into two groups using a computer-generated random number table. The intervention group A received 10 grams of flaxseed powder, while the placebo group B received 10 grams of roasted wheat flour for a continuous three months. We measured their demographic characteristics, menopausal symptoms score using the modified Kupperman's index (KI), the menopause rating scale (MRS), and the menopause-specific quality of life (MENQOL) intervention questionnaire. Moreover, using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), biochemical parameters (ED, EL) were assessed both at baseline and after three months. For the statistical analysis, Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS, version 24; IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Armonk, NY) was employed. Result The study involved 123 individuals, with 22 subjects losing out during follow-up. From baseline to follow-up comparison, the intervention group demonstrated an average percentage decline in the final score of the KI, MRS, and MENQOL intervention questionnaire of -47.25%, -54.05%, and -50.39%, respectively, while the placebo group demonstrated an average percentage decline of -3.83%, -4.91%, and -7.92%, respectively. From baseline to follow-up, ED and EL levels increased by 2.81-fold and 8.55-fold in the intervention group and decreased by 0.25-fold and 0.27-fold in the placebo group. Conclusion Following three months of supplementation, the intervention group showed substantially lower menopausal symptoms (p < 0.001), and ED and EL levels were considerably higher (p < 0.001). Therefore, flaxseed might ameliorate the symptoms associated with perimenopause.
ABSTRACT
Background Although knee osteoarthritis (KOA) and osteoporosis (OP) manifest distinct pathophysiologies, they share numerous similarities. These health conditions are commonly found in older individuals, particularly among women. The objective of this study is to explore the expression of micro-RNA (miRNA) 122-5p (miR-122-5p) in people affected by both KOA and OP. The main aim is to identify diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets, which could help develop personalized treatment approaches. Methods As part of the study, a total of 268 serum samples were collected from the participants, who were divided into four groups: KOA, OP, KOA and OP, and controls, with 67 subjects per group. The miRNA species-containing total RNA was isolated from the serum samples using an miRNeasy serum/plasma kit by QIAGEN (Hilden, Germany). The expression of miR-122-5p was examined in each group using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results Expression of miR-122-5p in all three groups (KOA, OP, and common group of KOA and OP) was significantly upregulated, and the fold change value was much higher in the group having both diseases. Conclusions These results might contribute to the identification of cases at risk, early diagnosis, and development, and might also contribute to the development of therapeutic targets in subjects having both KOA and OP.
ABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To report the oxidative stress profile in patient of Graves' ophthalmopathy and to study the effect of hormone level normalization on oxidative stress profile. METHODS: All first time reporting patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy to Department of ophthalmology CSM Medical University (erstwhile King George's Medical University) Lucknow during the period January 2006 to December 2008 formed the cohort. Before initiating treatment a proforma directed detailed history, complete ophthalmological examination and investigations were done. Blood sample for pro/antioxidant enzyme were withdrawn for study after taking an informed consent. Patients were treated with antithyroid drugs alone to achieve a stable euthyroid status for at least 6 months following which a blood sample was again withdrawn to study the pro/anti oxidant enzyme status following treatment. RESULTS: On normalization of thyroid status the values of reactive oxygen species decreased significantly (p<0.05) and levels of antioxidants also got corrected significantly (p<0.05). However both these values remained significantly (p<0.05) altered as compared to normal persons. CONCLUSION: We demonstrated that even after normalization of thyroid hormone level, the oxidative stress levels remain elevated. Moreover, activity of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), Glutathione reductase (GSHR), Glutathione peroxidise (GPx) showed decrease which could be attributed to altered metabolism and already prevalent deficiency of essential micronutrients like zinc, copper, mercury, and selenium in the Indian population. Hence, this gives way to the thought that the supplementation of these nutrients may have a role as an adjuvant to hormonal therapy in patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy.