Unveiling the interplay of MAPK/NF-κB/MLKL axis in brain health: Omega-3 as a promising candidates against copper neurotoxicity.

Excessive intake of copper (Cu) may lead to increased inflammatory responses in brain, which can cause damage to neurons and glial cells, thereby affecting normal brain function. Omega-3 (ω-3) is a common dietary supplement, particularly rich in DHA in the brain, known for its anti-inflammatory properties and its role in lipid balance regulation and structural maintenance. Here, ω-3 is supplemented to Cu-exposed chickens to assess its neuroprotection in vivo and in vitro. Pathologically, ω-3 significantly alleviated structural and functional abnormalities in brain under excess Cu, including barrier disruption, neuronal shrinkage necroptosis and increased release of inflammatory factors such as IL-1ß. The molecular docking analyses unveiled high enrichment values of inflammation and MAPK pathway, with IL-1ß gene enrichment the highest value. Mechanistically, DHA stabilized the active site of IL-1ß, thereby reducing the activation of NF-κB signal and phosphorylation of MAPK/MLKL cascades, ultimately mitigating Cu-induced inflammatory effects. These mechanisms elucidate the action mode of Cu neurotoxicity from aspect of MAPK/NF-κB/MLKL axis and the promising neuroprotection of ω-3.

Comparative Evaluation of Effectiveness of Omega-3 Fatty Acids as an Adjunct to SRP with Conventional SRP: A Randomized Clinical Trial.

AIM: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of "omega-3 fatty acids" as an auxiliary to "scaling and root planing (SRP)" with traditional "scaling and root planing" in periodontal treatment in humans. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study is a randomized control trial and was carried out over a period of 3 months (registered on 02/07/2023). Thirty patients were singled out according to the inclusion criteria, each having periodontitis (Stage II Grade B), and were arbitrarily distributed into two groups (control and test). The test group was treated with "scaling and root planing" along with the adjunctive application of "omega-3 fatty acids" while the control group was treated with "scaling and root planing" alone. Monthly follow-up was carried out over 90 days. Clinical parameters such as pocket probing depth (PPD), gingival index (GI), bleeding index (BI), and plaque index (PI) were measured respectively at baseline and 3 months. The data was recorded and statistically analyzed. RESULTS: The soft tissue architecture remained stable. The mean full mouth plaque index (FMPI) score was statistically significant (p < 0.001) when the control group was compared to the test group with a mean difference of 0.12 ± 0.02. The mean full mouth papillary bleeding index (FMPBI) score decreased at 3 months and was statistically significant compared to baseline with a mean difference of 0.24 ± 0.04 (p < 0.001). When the test group was compared with the control group, the FMGI was not significant (p = 0.02), with a mean difference of 0.16 ± 0.19. The PPD was not significant (p =1) when comparing both the groups, with a mean difference of 0 ± 0.66. Although the clinical parameters were statistically significant at 3 months when compared to baseline in both the groups, the FMGI and PPD were not significant. CONCLUSION: The combined action of using omega-3 fatty acid as an auxiliary to conventional scaling and root planing improved the periodontal parameters including both the soft and hard tissue outcomes. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The present study indicated that supplementary usage of omega-3 fatty acids is more beneficial for treating chronic and mild periodontitis than scaling and root planing alone. Omega-3 fatty acids can be used as energy for our cells, reduce the risk of blood clotting, maintain bone health, regulate metabolism, and reduce inflammation. Host modulatory therapy (HMT) with omega-3 fatty acids aims at reducing inflammation. With HMT as an adjunct, a better result of periodontal therapy was expected. It enhanced the positive effects on periodontal parameters and both the soft and hard tissue outcomes. How to cite this article: Salian S, Dhadse PV, Patil R, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Effectiveness of Omega-3 Fatty Acids as an Adjunct to SRP with Conventional SRP: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Contemp Dent Pract 2024;25(5):440-444.

Investigation of the Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Antioxidant System and Serum Aluminum, Zinc, and Iron Levels in Acute Aluminum Toxicity.

Aluminum (Al), one of the three most prevalent metals in the Earth's crust, adversely impacts all metabolic systems of living organisms due to its extensive utilization by humans. It is known that omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3FA) protect the organism against diseases and have positive effects on the immune system. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of ω-3FA on 8-OH-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), glutathione (GSH) levels and adenosine deaminase (ADA), paraoxonase (PON), and catalase (CAT) activities in rats with acute aluminum toxicity. The study also aimed to investigate the antioxidant system, as well as Al, zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) levels. Forty Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 40) were used in the study and the rats were divided into four equal groups (n = 10). In group I, 0.5 mL of 0.9% saline solution (NaCI) was injected intraperitoneally. Group II was injected with 34 mg/kg aluminum chloride (AlCI3) intraperitoneally. Group III received 400 mg/kg ω-3FA for 7 days and group IV received both AlCI3 and 400 mg/kg ω-3FA for 7 days. At the end of the study, blood samples were obtained by cardiac puncture. The findings showed that Al exposure increased serum 8-OHdG and total oxidant status (TOS) levels, as well as ADA activity, which are markers associated with oxidative damage. Conversely, PON and CAT activities, GSH, and total antioxidant status (TAS) levels decreased compared to the control group. Furthermore, Zn and Fe levels decreased as Al levels increased. In conclusion, Al has the capacity to induce oxidative damage and lipid peroxidation, while ω-3 fatty acids may mitigate this damage through a regulatory mechanism. Moreover, ω-3-FA could be used as a therapeutic agent that reduces Al toxicity.

Eligibility for marine omega-3 fatty acid supplementation after acute coronary syndromes.

Background and aims: The 2019 European Society of Cardiology guidelines for the management of dyslipidemia consider the use of high-dose marine omega-3 fatty acid (FA) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) supplementation (icosapent ethyl 2 × 2g/day) to lower residual cardiovascular risk in high-risk patients with hypertriglyceridemia. This study aimed to assess the eligibility for omega-3 FA-EPA supplementation in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). Methods: In a prospective Swiss cohort of patients hospitalized for ACS, eligibility for marine omega-3 FA-EPA, defined as plasma triglyceride levels ranging from 1.5 to 5.6 mmol/l, was assessed at baseline and one-year follow-up and compared across subgroups. Lipid-lowering therapy intensification with statin and ezetimibe was modelled to simulate a hypothetical systematic treatment and its effect on omega-3 FA-EPA supplementation eligibility. Results: Of 2643 patients, 98 % were prescribed statin therapy at discharge, including 62 % at a high-intensity regimen; 93 % maintained it after one year, including 53 % at a high-intensity regimen. The use of ezetimibe was 3 % at discharge and 7 % at one year. Eligibility was observed in 32 % (32 % men, 29 % women) one year post-ACS. After modelling systematic treatment with statins, ezetimibe, and both, eligibility decreased to 31 %, 25 % and 24 %, respectively. Eligibility was higher in individuals aged <70 (34 vs 25 %), smokers (38 vs 28 %), diabetics (46 vs 29 %), hypertensive (35 vs 29 %), and obese patients (46 vs 22 % for normal weight), all with p-values <0.001. Conclusion: In a contemporary Swiss cohort of patients with ACS, up to 32 % would be eligible for omega-3 FA-EPA supplementation one year after ACS, highlighting an opportunity to mitigate residual cardiovascular risk in patients with ACS and hypertriglyceridemia.

Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity in Major Depressive Disorder: Restoring Balance for Neuroinflammation and Neuroprotection.

Major depressive disorder (MDD), affecting over 264 million individuals globally, is associated with immune system dysregulation and chronic neuroinflammation, potentially linked to neurodegenerative processes. This review examines blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction in MDD, focusing on key regulators like matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP9), aquaporin-4 (AQP4), and ATP-binding cassette subfamily B member 1 (ABCB1). We explore potential mechanisms by which compromised BBB integrity in MDD may contribute to neuroinflammation and discuss the therapeutic potential of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs). n-3 PUFAs have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, and potential ability to modulate MMP9, AQP4, and ABCB1, thereby restoring BBB integrity in MDD. This review aims to elucidate these potential mechanisms and evaluate the evidence for n-3 PUFAs as a strategy to mitigate BBB dysfunction and neuroinflammation in MDD.

High-dose Omega-3 Alters Serum Magnesium and Calcium Levels and Affects Fibromyalgia Symptoms: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-Control Study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of a high oral dose of omega- 3 on serum magnesium (Mg) and calcium (Ca) levels and their effects on clinical measures of pain threshold. METHODS: One hundred twenty patients were recruited and randomized 1:1 to omega-3 or placebo and blinded to their treatment group. At baseline and after 8 weeks of treatment, the Widespread Pain Index (WPI), the Symptom Severity Scale (SSS), the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the FM Impact Questionnaire (FIQ) were completed. In addition, serum was taken for Ca and Mg analysis at the same time point. RESULTS: The WPI, SSS, VAS, and FIQ scores improved significantly in the omega-3 group compared to the placebo group (P < 0.001). Serum Ca levels correlated negatively with WPI (r = - 0.308), SSS (r = -0.28), VAS (r = -0.311), and FIQ (r= -0.348) scores (P < 0.001) after 8 weeks of treatment. Serum Mg levels were negatively correlated with SSS (r = -0.212) and VAS (r = -0.231) scores after 8 weeks of treatment. The difference between serum Ca levels before and after 8 weeks of omega-3 treatment and serum Mg levels increased significantly compared to 8 weeks of placebo treatment. CONCLUSION: The results of this study showed that a high dose of omega-3 could have a positive effect on the relief of FM pain, which could be due to an increase in serum Mg and Ca levels.

Association between Omega-3 fatty acids and autoimmune disease: Evidence from the umbrella review and Mendelian randomization analysis.

BACKGROUND: Autoimmune diseases are a group of disorders characterized by abnormal immune responses that mistakenly target and attack healthy cells, tissues, and organs, resulting in inflammation and tissue damage. Omega-3 fatty acids possess anti-inflammatory activities and may decrease abnormal immune activity. However, the role of omega-3 fatty acids in various autoimmune diseases is still unclear. This umbrella review and Mendelian randomization (MR) study aims to summarize the highest available evidence on omega-3 fatty acids and autoimmune disease. METHODS: We conducted an umbrella review by searching electronic databases to identify systematic reviews and meta-analyses. The selection criteria included systematic reviews with or without meta-analysis, which evaluated omega-3 fatty acids as the exposure and autoimmune disease as the outcome variable. Two authors independently assessed the overlapping and quality of the reviews using the AMSTAR-2 tool. We also performed MR studies to investigate the potential causal effect of fatty acids on the risk of various autoimmune diseases, utilizing data from the meta-analysis of the UKB-TOPMed and FinnGen cohorts. RESULT: The umbrella review identified 21 studies (8 systematic reviews and 13 meta-analyses) on 9 autoimmune diseases and 30 diseases in the MR study. AMSTAR 2 categorized the quality of evidence in six studies as critically low, six studies as low, eight studies as moderate, and one as high-quality evidence. The consistent result between the review and the MR study demonstrated the benefit of omega-3 fatty acids on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Additionally, in our summary review, omega-3 fatty acids can improve disease activity and inflammation biomarkers; however, MR studies provided no consistent evidence for the causal effects of omega-3 fatty acids on psoriasis, multiple sclerosis (MS), type 1 diabetes (T1D), IgA nephropathy (IgAN), juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), Crohn's disease (CD), and ulcerative colitis (UC). CONCLUSION: The current study presented solid evidence highlighting the advantageous impact of omega-3 fatty acids on SLE and RA. This was achieved through the reduction of disease risk, the decrease of disease activity, and the mitigation of inflammatory biomarkers. To stratify another autoimmune illness, it is necessary to carry out rigorous evaluations to surpass the existing findings and enhance understanding in this domain.

Overview of the therapeutic efficacy of marine fish oil in managing obesity and associated metabolic disorders.

In the present scenario, obesity is a challenging health problem and its prevalence along with comorbidities are on the rise around the world. Ingestion of fish becomes trendy in daily meals. Recent research has shown that marine fish oil (FO) (found in tuna, sardines, and mackerel) may offer an alternative method for reducing obesity and problems associated with it. Marine FO rich in long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFA) and long-chain omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-6 PUFA) plays an important role in reducing abnormalities associated with the metabolic syndrome and has a variety of disease-fighting properties, including cardioprotective activity, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory activity. Studies in rodents and humans have indicated that LC n-3 PUFA potentially elicit a number of effects which might be useful for reducing obesity, including suppression of appetite, improvements in circulation, enhanced fat oxidation, energy expenditure, and reduced fat deposition. This review discusses the interplay between inflammation and obesity, and their subsequent regulation via the beneficial role of marine FO, suggesting an alternative dietary strategy to ameliorate obesity and obesity-associated chronic diseases.

Resolvin D4 mitigates lipopolysaccharide-induced lung injury in mice.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a life-threatening condition involving severe lung inflammation. The excessive oxidative stress and persistent inflammation that occur in ARDS lead to decreased epithelial integrity and hypoxemia due to pulmonary edema via increased vascular permeability. Resolvin D4 (RvD4) is one of the lipid mediators that is biosynthesized from omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. It plays a role in the resolution of inflammation and reduces oxidative stress and cell death. We investigated the therapeutic potential of the administration of RvD4 in a murine model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ARDS. Concurrent with the intratracheal administration of LPS, RvD4 or saline was administered to mice via the caudal vein every 12 h. This treatment with RvD4 alleviated the LPS-induced infiltration of inflammatory cells in lungs, inhibited increased pulmonary vascular permeability, decreased the levels of IL-1ß, IL-6, and TNF-α in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), and suppressed the reduction of the expression levels of the tight junction protein, Zonula occludens-1 (Zo-1) and the NAD+-dependent deacetylase, Sirtuin-3 (Sirt3). In vitro experiments revealed that in LPS-stimulated BEAS-2B cells, treatment with RvD4 suppressed the increases in the expressions of pro-inflammatory cytokines and maintained the epithelial cell barrier function and cell viability. The silencing of SIRT3 abolished both the anti-inflammatory effect and the retention of cell integrity in BEAS-2B cells. Together these results indicate that treatment with RvD4 can (i) protect against LPS-induced lung injury by inhibiting inflammation, and (ii) maintain epithelial barrier function via a reduction in the downregulation of SIRT3.

Low sucrose diets protect long-term memory and EPA & DHA enriched diets alter insulin resistance in a mouse model of chemotherapy.

Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) and affective symptoms negatively impact quality of life in breast cancer survivors. The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of high eicosapentaenoic acid + docosahexaenoic acid (EPA+DHA) and low sucrose diets to alleviate these symptoms in a mouse model of chemotherapy. Potential mechanisms involving insulin resistance were explored. We hypothesized that diets enriched in EPA+DHA and low amounts of sucrose would protect against the impact of chemotherapy on measures of CRCI. Female C57Bl/6 mice were randomized to 1 of 4 diets (2% kcal eicosapentaenoic acid + docosahexaenoic acid [EPA+DHA]/high or low sucrose, low omega-3/high or low sucrose) for 6 weeks and treated with two injections of doxorubicin-based chemotherapy or vehicle during week 2 and 4. Behavioral tests were performed 7 days after second injection. Chemotherapy increased serum insulin and decreased body weight, locomotion and exploratory behavior (all p < .05). Low sucrose consumption resulted in better long-term memory regardless of chemotherapy or vehicle injection (p < .05). 2% EPA+DHA consumption lessened insulin resistance (p < .05); however, controlling for body weight attenuated this effect (p = .08). There were no significant differences by diet or injection on liver lipid content; however, liver lipid content was positively correlated with insulin resistance scores (p < .05). Low sucrose diets may protect long-term memory during chemotherapy. The effect of EPA+DHA on insulin resistance and affective side effects during chemotherapy requires further investigation.

The implications of atorvastatin administration and the potential protective role of omega-3 on the submandibular salivary gland of albino rats (Histological, Histochemical, Ultrastructure, and Biochemical Study).

BACKGROUND: Hyperlipidemia is a risky condition that can lead to atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular problems. Statins are used to treat hyperlipidemia. The most recommended medicine to treat hyperlipidemia is atorvastatin. On the contrary, clinical trials validated statins' negative effects. Omega-3 fatty acids have antioxidant properties and have been shown to improve a variety of disease processes in the general population, including inflammatory and immunological pathways, various cardiovascular diseases, and lipid regulation. The present research aimed to determine how atorvastatin affected the submandibular salivary gland (SMG) and whether omega-3 may have a protective impact. METHODS: Thirty adult male albino rats were divided into three equal groups and received drugs orally as a single daily dose for one week. Control group (I): received normal saline. Atorvastatin group (II): received a dose of 80 mg Kg-1 of Atorvastatin. Group III: received Omega-3 before Atorvastatin. All rats were sacrificed 2 h following the last dose, and blood samples were gathered for the biochemical study of fasting blood glucose level (FBGL). Specimens were obtained and processed for histological and histochemical studies. RESULTS: Atorvastatin-treated rats showed degeneration of SMG acini. The acinar cells showed cytoplasmic vacuoles with dilated RER. Histochemical results revealed a marked decrease in total proteins. The biochemical study revealed an elevation in FBGL. The administration of Omega-3 with Atorvastatin minimizes these changes. CONCLUSION: Atorvastatin has been proven to induce histological changes in SMG, and these changes can be attenuated by Omega-3. However, Omega-3 has no effect on FBGL.

Plasma levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids and multiple sclerosis susceptibility in a US case-control study.

BACKGROUND: There are plausible mechanisms, yet mixed evidence, that higher polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) levels reduces the risk of multiple sclerosis (MS). Prior studies relied on dietary surveys to estimate levels. OBJECTIVE: We tested associations between plasma levels of n-3 and n-6 PUFAs and likelihood of MS onset or clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) using data from the MS Sunshine Study, a case-control study conducted in the United States. METHODS: Case participants (n = 589) aged ≥ 18 years and matched control participants (n = 630) were recruited between 2011 and 2015. Plasma phospholipid fatty acid profiling was conducted by gas-liquid chromatography. We used logistic regression to report odds ratios, testing for interactions, adjusting for covariates and correcting for multiple comparisons. RESULTS: There was a 6 % lower probability of MS/CIS per unit increase in total n-6 PUFA level, expressed as a percentage of total plasma phospholipid fatty acids (odds ratio = 0.94; 95 % confidence interval = 0.90,0.98; p = 0.012). We found no statistically significant association between individual or total plasma levels of n-3 PUFAs and probability of MS/CIS; however, plasma levels of n-3 PUFAs were low across the cohort. No other individual or aggregate PUFA levels were significantly associated with MS/CIS. CONCLUSION: A higher total n-6 PUFA level may be beneficial in terms of MS susceptibility. Further research is needed to determine whether n-3 PUFAs may be beneficial only above a threshold that is achievable by supplementation.

Two-phase therapy for improving neuroprotection and neurogenesis: Preventive use of omega fatty acids plus Copolymer-1 immunization after stroke.

Stroke is a major global health issue, ranking as the second leading cause of death and the primary cause of disability worldwide. However, current therapeutic options remain limited. Nutritional supplementation as a form of primary prevention stands as a potential stroke therapeutic. In particular, the intake of omega-3 fatty acids (omega-3FA) exerts anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects that help reduce the risk of stroke. In parallel, treatment with Copolymer-1 (COP-1), a peptide with immunomodulatory properties through Th1/Th2/Th3 phenotype switching, similarly affords neuroprotective and neurorestorative effects in stroke models. To investigate the combined effects of these treatments, we designed a two-phase therapy: the first phase involved preventive supplementation with omega-3FA, while the second phase included COP-1 immunization following stroke injury. Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to one of the four groups: 1) control, 2) omega-3FA, 3) COP-1, and 4) omega-3FA + COP-1. Omega-3FAs were administered for 28 days before inducing stroke. Thirty minutes after reperfusion, the respective groups were immunized with COP-1. Seven days post-stroke, neurological deficits were assessed using the Zea-Longa scale, infarct volumes with 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, and levels of neurogenesis via immunofluorescence imaging. The results showed that the two-phase therapy produced significant synergistic effects, markedly reducing neurological deficits, and infarct volumes, while enhancing neurogenic activities in neurogenic niches. This combined approach underscores the potential of integrating nutritional and pharmacological strategies to enhance stroke recovery.

Cytokine Release Syndrome Associated With Immune-Modulating Chemotherapy: Potential Mitigating Role of Intravenous Omega-3 Fatty Acid Triglycerides.

BACKGROUND: Patient susceptibility to cytokine release syndrome (CRS) resulting from immune-modulating chemotherapy has profound implications for clinical outcome. This is particularly true for patients receiving CAR T-cell therapy. First-line pharmacotherapy for CRS includes the administration of the IL-6 receptor-binding monoclonal antibody tocilizumab, or tocilizumab and corticosteroids. Other agents, such as siltuximab, anakinra, and dasatinab are also being explored for refractory cases of CRS. This review summarizes the potential role of omega-3 fatty acids, that is, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) at ameliorating CRS in cancer patients receiving immune-modulating chemotherapy, and is compared with current treatment strategies to reduce the severity of the inflammatory response. RECENT FINDINGS: Selective blockade of specific proinflammatory mediators (e.g., IL-6) is effective, but carries a significant risk of serious opportunistic infections. In contrast, omega-3 fatty acids affect multiple triggers underlying the inflammatory response (i.e., prostaglandins, leukotrienes, transcription factors, and specialized proresolving molecules), and its major limitation is avoidance of hypertriglyceridemia, which can be managed by reducing the rate of intravenous administration. This discussion proposes a novel approach by continuous infusion of omega-3 fatty acids to modulate the intensity of the severe systemic inflammatory response from CRS. The purpose of this review is to highlight the potential clinical benefits of a specialized omega-3 fatty acids dosage form to mitigate the severity of CRS as a hypothetical alternative to current treatment. CONCLUSION: Optimizing the formulation, for example, enriched fish oil that meets drug concentration standards for EPA and DHA, a continuous infusion rate, reductions in long-chain saturated fatty acids concentrations, and addition of medium-chain triglycerides to improve EPA + DHA utilization and physical stability are key pharmaceutical factors. This may result in a safer and more effective option than targeted abrogation of cytokines and consequent risks of adverse drug reactions, but will require formal study in randomized control trials in humans.

Exploring the impact of fatty acid composition on carcass and meat quality in Bos taurus indicus influenced cattle.

The study of fatty acid (FA) and mineral content in beef is crucial for bridging health and taste. Understanding these components is essential for catering to consumer preferences for nutritious and tasty food, in line with current dietary trends and health recommendations. This holistic view of beef quality is key to helping both producers and consumers make more knowledgeable and health-oriented decisions in meat consumption. The objectives of this study were to 1) characterize the FA composition and mineral concentration of beef from Brangus cattle; 2) estimate their heritability; and 3) calculate the genetic and phenotypic correlations of carcass and meat quality traits to FA composition and mineral concentrations. Brangus steers were evaluated for meat quality and sampled for nutritional content measurements. Brangus cattle had palmitic acid levels as low as 21%, and stearic acid levels as high as 26%, which is notable since stearic acid is considered to have a neutral or potentially beneficial impact on cholesterol levels, unlike other saturated fats. Additionally, Brangus cattle had oleic acid levels as high as 53%, a beneficial monounsaturated fat, and linoleic acid concentrations as high as 12%, an essential omega-6 FA. Saturated FA showed weak negative correlations (-0.06 to -0.15) with hot carcass weight, marbling, and fat over ribeye, similar to polyunsaturated FA which had moderate negative correlations (-0.19 to -0.37) with these traits. Conversely, monounsaturated FA was positively correlated (0.16 to 0.34) with these traits, suggesting that higher levels of monounsaturated FA, particularly oleic acid, are associated with improved meat quality and consumer-desirable traits such as increased marbling. This relationship where higher marbling is linked with increased monounsaturated FA and decreased saturated FA is unique in Brangus cattle, differing from other breeds where increased intramuscular fat typically raises FA saturation levels. The variation in FA observed in Brangus cattle highlights the breed's potential to provide nutritionally enriched beef. With selective breeding, it may be possible to improve both the nutritional value and marbling of the meat, meeting consumer demand for healthier, tastier options. Overall, the study underscores the intricate relationships between FA composition, mineral content, and meat quality, with implications for breeding and nutrition strategies aimed at improving meat quality and healthfulness.

Overview and potential role of omega-3 in COVID-19.

Abstract: Obesity is a modifiable inflammatory commodity that has been linked to higher morbidity and mortality to those that contract novel viruses, such as H1N1 and SARS-CoV-2. Loss of life and the high cost of obesity highlights the need to focus on preventative measures. This article will discuss obesity as a crucial comorbid inflammatory condition during COVID-19 pandemic, focus on the mechanisms that may contribute to the likely benefits of omega-3 and provide potential recommendations to promote strategies for wellness.

Association of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids intake and cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults.

OBJECTIVE: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) play a crucial role in maintaining and improving cognitive function and brain health. The aim of this study was to assess the association between omega-3 PUFA intake and cognitive function in middle-aged and older adults in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: Cognitive function was assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). The frequency and quantity of omega-3 PUFA intake were assessed using an omega-3 food frequency questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 175 participants were recruited for this study. Participants in the lowest omega-3 PUFA tertile group scored significantly lower in the visuospatial/executive and attention cognitive domains (p < 0.05). After adjusting for confounders, the higher intake of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) was significantly associated with higher scores in the visuospatial/executive domain (p = 0.02) and the higher intake of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was significantly associated with higher scores in the attention domain (p = 0.04). The participants who did not consume walnuts showed a significant lower MoCA score than those who did (p = 0.005). No significant differences were found with other omega-3 PUFA sources. CONCLUSION: Higher intake of omega-3 PUFAs was positively associated with visuospatial/executive and attention cognitive functions in middle-aged and older adults.

Short Report: Exploring the Effect of Prenatal Fatty Acid Supplementation on Wheeze and Asthma in Black American Children.

Background: Black American children are at higher risk for developing asthma than White children. Identifying potential scalable preventive interventions that can reduce the racial disparities in asthma prevalence and associated morbidity and mortality are needed. We leveraged data from an RCT of prenatal supplementation with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in Black American women, to explore whether prenatal fatty acid supplementation is associated with offspring wheeze and asthma. Methods: Data were from the Nutrition and Pregnancy Study (NAPS), a double-blind RCT of prenatal DHA supplementation in Black women targeting stress regulation during pregnancy. A subset of mothers (n = 83) completed a standardized questionnaire on offspring wheeze and asthma when children were between 0.5 and 5.5 years of age. DHA levels were measured from venous blood and reported as percent of total fatty acids. Results: Of the 83 mothers providing data on child wheeze and asthma, 57 (68.7%) had been randomized to active DHA and 26 (31.3%) to placebo. Mothers and research staff were blind to group assignment. Comparison at the group assignment level yielded a relative reduction of 32% in the rate of wheeze or asthma among offspring of mothers assigned to active DHA compared to offspring of mothers assigned to placebo (OR = 1.6 [95% CI = 0.50-5.09], p = 0.426). DHA levels measured at 25-29 and 33-37 weeks of gestation differed as a function of offspring wheeze or asthma (t = 2.21, p = 0.015 and t = 2.54, p = 0.007, respectively). Conclusion: These preliminary data suggest that increasing prenatal levels of DHA could be considered as a potential prevention for asthma in Black American children.

Modeling enzyme competition in Eicosanoid metabolism in macrophage cells using a cybernetic framework.

Cellular metabolism is a complex process involving the consumption and production of metabolites, as well as the regulation of enzyme synthesis and activity. Modeling of metabolic processes is important to understand the underlying mechanisms, with a wide range of applications in metabolic engineering and health sciences. Cybernetic modeling is a powerful technique that accounts for unknown intricate regulatory mechanisms in complex cellular processes. It models regulation as goal-oriented, where the levels and activities of enzymes are modulated by the cybernetic control variables to achieve the cybernetic objective. This study employed cybernetic model to study the enzyme competition between arachidonic acid (AA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) metabolism in murine macrophages. AA and EPA compete for the shared enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). Upon external stimuli, AA produces pro-inflammatory 2-series prostaglandins (PGs) and EPA metabolizes to anti-inflammatory 3-series PGs, where pro- and anti- inflammatory responses are necessary for homeostasis. The cybernetic model adequately captured the experimental data for control and EPA-supplemented conditions. The model is validated by performing an F-test, conducting leave-one-out-metabolite cross-validation, and predicting an unseen experimental condition. The cybernetic variables provide insights into the competition between AA and EPA for the COX enzyme. Predictions from our model suggest that the system undergoes a switch from a predominantly pro-inflammatory state in the control to an anti-inflammatory state with EPA-supplementation. The model can also be used to analytically determine the AA and EPA concentrations required for the switch to occur. The quantitative outcomes enhance understanding of pro- and anti-inflammatory metabolism in RAW 264.7 macrophages.