Apelin and Visfatin Expression in Placental Tissue in Women With Preeclampsia and Overweight/Obesity.

BACKGROUND: Preeclampsia (PE) is a multifunctional and multisystem disorder. Several factors favor the development of PE, including obesity. Cytokines are also expressed in the placenta, predisposing to local alterations that favor the development of distinct pathological processes, including PE. This study aimed to evaluate the apelin and visfatin mRNA expression in the placental tissue of women with preeclampsia and overweight/obesity and correlates with maternal and fetal variables. METHODS: A cross-sectional analytical study was performed with 60 pregnant women and their newborns. Clinical, anthropometric, and laboratory variables were collected. Placental tissue samples were obtained, and the apelin and visfatin mRNA expression levels were assessed by qRT-PCR. RESULTS: The main findings evidenced lower levels of apelin expression in overweight/obese women, accompanied by a negative correlation with BMI and pre-pregnancy weight; a higher expression of apelin was also observed in women with late PE and no personal history of PE. For visfatin levels, higher expression levels were observed in women with late PE and term delivery. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between visfatin levels and fetal anthropometric parameters, such as weight, length, and head circumference. CONCLUSION: Apelin levels were less expressed in overweight/obese women. Apelin and visfatin levels were correlated/associated with maternal-fetal variables.

The experience of trans or transvestite women in accessing public health services.

OBJECTIVE: to understand the meanings of being a trans or transvestite woman in the care provided by Unified Health System health professionals. METHODS: qualitative research, guided by Heidegger's phenomenology, with 10 trans or transvestitewomen residing and using the Unified Health System in a municipality in Minas Gerais. Fieldwork was carried out by interviews. RESULTS: trans or transvestitewomen reproduce the social patterns constructed and accepted by the female, with the search for hormonization being common, and, when it is difficult to obtain a prescription, they resort to self-medication. Social name use and acceptance by health professionals promote recognition. Trans or transvestitewomen experience prejudice on a daily basis, not only by professionals, but also because of the assumption of diagnoses by other users. FINAL CONSIDERATIONS: transphobia promotes withdrawal from health services, due to fear, shame, knowledge about professionals' unpreparedness, triggering illness, social exclusion and violence.

The experience of trans or transvestite women in accessing public health services / La experiencia de las mujeres trans o travestis en el acceso a los servicios públicos de salud / O vivido de mulheres trans ou travestis no acesso aos serviços públicos de saúde

ABSTRACT Objective: to understand the meanings of being a trans or transvestite woman in the care provided by Unified Health System health professionals. Methods: qualitative research, guided by Heidegger's phenomenology, with 10 trans or transvestitewomen residing and using the Unified Health System in a municipality in Minas Gerais. Fieldwork was carried out by interviews. Results: trans or transvestitewomen reproduce the social patterns constructed and accepted by the female, with the search for hormonization being common, and, when it is difficult to obtain a prescription, they resort to self-medication. Social name use and acceptance by health professionals promote recognition. Trans or transvestitewomen experience prejudice on a daily basis, not only by professionals, but also because of the assumption of diagnoses by other users. Final considerations: transphobia promotes withdrawal from health services, due to fear, shame, knowledge about professionals' unpreparedness, triggering illness, social exclusion and violence.

RESUMEN Objetivo: comprender los significados de ser mujer trans o travesti en la atención brindada por profesionales de salud del Sistema Único de Salud. Métodos: investigación cualitativa, guiada por la fenomenología de Heidegger, con 10 mujeres trans o travestis residentes y usuarias del Sistema Único de Salud en un municipio de Minas Gerais. El trabajo de campo se llevó a cabo mediante entrevistas. Resultados: las mujeres trans o travestis reproducen los patrones sociales construidos y aceptados por la fémina, siendo común la búsqueda de la hormonalización y, cuando es difícil obtener una receta, recurren a la automedicación. El uso y aceptación del nombre social por parte de los profesionales de la salud promueve su reconocimiento. Las mujeres trans o travestis experimentan prejuicios a diario, no solo por parte de los profesionales, sino también por la asunción de diagnósticos por parte de otros usuarios. Consideraciones finales: la transfobia promueve el alejamiento de los servicios de salud, por miedo, vergüenza, conocimiento sobre la falta de preparación de los profesionales, desencadenando enfermedades, exclusión social y violencia.

RESUMO Objetivo: compreender os sentidos de ser mulher trans ou travesti nos atendimentos realizados por profissionais de saúde do Sistema Único de Saúde. Métodos: pesquisa qualitativa, norteada pela fenomenologia de Heidegger, com 10 mulheres trans ou travestis residentes e usuárias do Sistema Único de Saúde de um município mineiro. Trabalho de campo foi realizado por entrevistas. Resultados: mulheres trans ou travestis reproduzem os padrões sociais construídos e aceitos ao feminino, sendo comum a busca pela hormonização e, havendo dificuldade em obterem a prescrição, recorrem à automedicação. A utilização e a aceitação do nome social pelos profissionais de saúde promovem seu reconhecimento. Mulheres trans ou travestis vivenciam cotidianamente o preconceito, não somente por profissionais, mas também pela suposição de diagnósticos por outros usuários. Considerações finais: a transfobia promove o afastamento dos serviços de saúde, por medo, vergonha, conhecimento sobre o despreparo dos profissionais, desencadeando adoecimento, exclusão social e violência.

Oral gallic acid improve liver steatosis and metabolism modulating hepatic lipogenic markers in obese mice.

INTRODUCTION: Gallic acid (GA) is a natural endogenous polyphenol found in a variety of fruits, vegetables and wines, with beneficial effects on the energetic homeostasis. AIM: The present study aimed to investigate oral gallic acid effects on liver steatosis and hepatic lipogenesis markers in obese mice evaluating new possible molecular related mechanisms. METHODS: Twenty-four Swiss male mice were divided into four groups and fed for 60 days with standard diet (ST), standard diet plus gallic acid (ST + GA), high-fat diet (HFD), and high-fat diet plus gallic acid (HFD + GA). We evaluated the relationship between body weight, food intake and serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, insulin, aspartate and alanine transaminases. Liver histology was analyzed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. These results were accompanied by bioinformatics analyses. The acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), sterol regulatory element binding protein-1 (SREBP-1) and fatty acid synthase (FAS) expression was assessed by quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR). RESULTS: The main findings of the present study showed that GA reduced liver steatosis, body weight and plasma insulin levels. Analyzes of hepatic steatosis related genes expression showed that ACC and FAS mRNA were significantly suppressed in liver of HFD + GA mice. These data was corroborated by bioinformatics analysis. CONCLUSION: These data suggest an important clinical application of GA in the prevention and treatment of liver diseases.

Oral gallic acid improves metabolic profile by modulating SIRT1 expression in obese mice brown adipose tissue: A molecular and bioinformatic approach.

AIMS: The aim of the presente study was to examine the effects of oral gallic acid (GA) administration on the brown adipose tissue of obese mice fed with high-fat diet. New mechanisms and interactions pathways in thermogenesis were accessed through bioinformatics analyses. MAIN METHODS: Swiss male mice were divided into four groups and fed during 60 days with: standard diet, standard diet combined with gallic acid, high-fat diet and high-fat diet combined with gallic acid. Body weight, food intake, and blood parameters (glucose tolerance test, total-cholesterol, high-density low-c, triglyceride and glucose levels) were evaluated. Brown and subcutaneous white adipose tissue histological analysis were performed. SIRT1 and PGC1-α mRNA expression in the brown adipose tissue were assessed. KEY FINDINGS: Our main findings showed that the gallic acid improved glucose tolerance and metabolic parameters. These results were accompanied by bioinformatics analyses that evidenced SIRT1 as main target in the thermogenesis process, confirmed as increased SIRT1 mRNA expression was evidenced in the brown adipose tissue. SIGNIFICANCE: Together, the data suggest that the gallic acid effect in brown adipose tissue may improve body metabolism, glucose homeostasis and increase thermogenesis.

Câncer infantojuvenil do âmbito familiar: percepções e experiências frente ao diagnóstico / Cancer in children and adolescents in the family settings: perceptions and experiences with respect to their diagnosis / Cáncer infantojuvenil del ámbito familiar: percepciones y experiencias frente al diagnóstico

Resumo Introdução O diagnóstico de câncer infantojuvenil pode afetar o relacionamento e a dinâmica familiar, além de desencadear sofrimentos e medos, causados pela apreensão de sua descoberta, tratamento e controle. Assim, este estudo objetiva compreender o enfrentamento das famílias diante do diagnóstico de câncer infantojuvenil. Materiais e Métodos Constituiu-se de estudo descritivo, transversal e de abordagem qualitativa, realizado no Centro de Alta Complexidade em Oncologia Irmã Malvina de Montes Claros-MG. Para a concepção da pesquisa, foi realizada uma entrevista semiestruturada a 27 cuidadores familiares de crianças e adolescentes portadores de câncer, que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão. Em seguida, os dados foram tabulados e analisados pela técnica análise de conteúdo. O estudo foi autorizado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa sob o parecer 2.536.184/2018. Resultados Após a análise dos dados, foi possível traçar um perfil socioeconômico do familiar e epidemiológico da criança doente. Quanto aos familiares, na maioria, eram de sexo feminino, com parentesco de 1° grau com a criança doente, e dedicavam seu tempo a atividades direcionadas ao cuidado com o filho. No tocante à epidemiologia dos casos, cerca de 55% representavam a Leucemia Linfoblástica Aguda. Discussão Os resultados encontrados foram agrupados em três categorias que abordam o impacto inicial do diagnóstico, o conhecimento como forma de alívio e as estratégias de enfrentamento. Conclusões Observou-se que o diagnóstico de câncer infantojuvenil tem grande impacto na dinâmica familiar e gera nessas famílias sentimentos dolorosos e desesperadores que desencadeiam a busca por alternativas de enfrentamento para se adaptarem a essa nova realidade.

Abstract Introduction Diagnosis of cancer in children and adolescents may affect relationships and family dynamics, apart from provoking suffering and fears due to mistrust on the discovery, treatment, and control of the disease. Considering the above, the purpose of this study is to understand what families face when cancer is diagnosed in children and adolescents. Materials and Methods A descriptive, cross-cutting and qualitative study was carried out at the Oncology High Complexity Center Irmã Malvina de Montes Claros-MG. For the purposes of this research, a semi-structured interview was conducted with 27 family caregivers of children and adolescents with cancer who met the inclusion criteria. Later, the data were tabulated and analyzed using the content analysis technique. This study was authorized by the Research Ethics Committee under report 2.536.184/2018. Results Once data had been analyzed, it was possible to draw up a socioeconomic profile of the family member and an epidemiological profile of the child patient. Most of the family members were female who were related to the child patient in the first grade of consanguinity and devoted their time to activities related to the care of the child. With respect to the epidemiology, about 55% of the cases were related to Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Discussion Results were grouped into three categories covering the initial impact of the diagnosis, knowledge as a form of relief, and strategies for coping with the disease. Conclusions It was observed that the diagnosis of cancer in children and adolescents has a great impact on family dynamics, generating hurtful and desperate feelings in these families, which trigger the search for alternatives to face this illness that can be adapted to this new reality.

Resumen Introducción El diagnóstico de cáncer infantojuvenil puede afectar las relaciones y la dinámica familiar, además de desencadenar sufrimiento y miedos, causados por el recelo causado por el hallazgo, tratamiento y control de la enfermedad. Considerando lo anterior, este estudio tiene por objeto entender a lo que se enfrentan las familias ante el diagnóstico de cáncer infantojuvenil. Materiales y Métodos Estudio descriptivo, transversal y de enfoque cualitativo, realizado en el Centro de Alta Complejidad en Oncología Irmã Malvina de Montes Claros-MG. Para los fines de esta investigación, se realizó una entrevista semi-estructurada a 27 cuidadores familiares de niños y adolescentes con cáncer que cumplieran con los criterios de inclusión. Posteriormente, los datos fueron tabulados y analizados utilizando la técnica de análisis de contenido. El estudio fue autorizado por el Comité de Ética en Investigación bajo el informe 2.536.184/2018. Resultados Una vez analizados los datos, fue posible trazar un perfil socioeconómico del familiar y epidemiológico del niño enfermo. En cuanto a los familiares, en su mayoría, eran de sexo femenino, con parentesco de 1º grado de consanguinidad con el niño enfermo y dedicaban su tiempo a actividades relacionadas con el cuidado del hijo. En lo que respecta a la epidemiología de los casos, cerca del 55% correspondía a Leucemia Linfoblástica Aguda. Discusión Los resultados encontrados se agruparon en tres categorías que abordan el impacto inicial del diagnóstico, el conocimiento como forma de alivio y las estrategias para enfrentar la enfermedad. Conclusiones Se observó que el diagnóstico de cáncer infantojuvenil tiene un gran impacto en la dinámica familiar y genera en estas familias sentimientos dolorosos y desesperadores que desencadenan la búsqueda de alternativas para enfrentar la enfermedad que se adapten a esa nueva realidad.

Effect of resveratrol on expression of genes involved thermogenesis in mice and humans.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of resveratrol on FNDC5 and thermogenesis markers expression in the adipose tissue of mice and humans. Thirty-two male mice were randomly divided into four groups (n = 8) and fed with: Standard Diet; Standard Diet + Resveratrol (400 mg/kg); High-fat Diet; High-fat Diet + Resveratrol for eight weeks. Twenty male and female volunteers, aged 30-55 years, BMI ≥ 30 kg/m² were divided into two groups and treated for four weeks with 500 mg trans-resveratrol or placebo, adipose tissue biopsies were taken. Analysis of body weight, food intake, glycemic and lipid profiles, mRNA expression from tissues and primary culture of adipocytes were performed. The main results show that resveratrol improves the glycaemic and lipid profiles along with an increase in the levels of UCP1, PRDM16, PGC1α, and SIRT1. The increase in FNDC5 expression was observed in the mouse and human subcutaneous adipose tissue. The SIRT1 antagonist in adipocyte primary culture resulted in decreased FNDC5 expression. Our data suggest that improved metabolism produced by oral administration of resveratrol is, at least in part, associated with increased thermogenesis followed by high expression of UCP1, PRDM16, PGC1α and that increased FNDC5 expression in the subcutaneous adipose tissue from mice and human might be modulated by SIRT1.

Body mass index and the visceral adipose tissue expression of IL-6 and TNF-alpha are associated with the morphological severity of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in individuals with class III obesity.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the mRNA expression of interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the liver and white adipose tissue samples of individuals with class III obesity (body mass index ≥40.0kg/m2) with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). METHODS: This cross-sectional study included patients with class III obesity exhibiting early or late morphological presentation of NAFLD (non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis [NAFL], n=8 and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis [NASH], n=13, respectively). All patients underwent bariatric surgery and peripheral blood, liver, and visceral white adipose tissue (WAT) samples were collected. Socio-demographic, anthropometric, clinical, plasma biochemical, and nutritional characteristics of each study subject were assessed and compared between patients presenting with NAFL and NASH. IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA expression in the liver and WAT samples were measured by using quantitative real time-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). RESULTS: Individuals with class III obesity and NASH showed higher body mass index (BMI) and higher IL-6 and TNF-α mRNA expression in the WAT compared to that of patients with NAFL (p=0.01, for all associations). CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with class III obesity with higher morphological severity of NAFLD exhibited higher BMI and higher IL-6 and TNF-α expression in the WAT. Future prospective studies are warranted to determine how BMI, IL-6, and TNF-α affect the progression of NAFLD in individuals with class III obesity.

Obesity and malnutrition similarly alter the renin-angiotensin system and inflammation in mice and human adipose.

The main goal of the present study was to evaluate the metabolic profile, inflammatory markers and the gene expression of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) components in the visceral adipose tissue of eutrophic, obese and malnourished individuals and mice models of obesity and food restriction. Male Swiss mice were divided into eight groups and fed different levels of food restriction (20%, 40%, or 60%) using standard or high-fat diet. Metabolic profile and adipose tissues were assessed. The expression of AGT (Angiotensinogen), ACE (Angiotensin-converting enzyme), ACE2 (Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the mice epididymal adipose tissue and the human visceral adipose tissue was assessed. The main findings showed reduced body weight, improved metabolism, decreased adipose tissues weight and reduced adipocyte area in mice submitted to food restriction. Diminished expression of IL-6, TNF-α, AGT, AT1 and ACE was detected in the 20% and 40% food restriction animal groups, although they were increased in the 60% malnourished group. Increased expression of IL-6, TNF-α, AGT and ACE in obese and malnourished individuals was observed. Adipocytes size was increased in obese individuals and reduced in malnutrition. In conclusion, we found that food restriction of 20% and 40% improved the metabolic profile, ameliorated the inflammatory status and down-regulated the RAS in mice. Severe 60% food restriction (malnutrition), however, stimulated a proinflammatory state and increased AGT and ACE expression in the adipose tissue of mice. A similar profile was observed in the adipose tissue of obese and malnourished humans, supporting the critical role of inflammation and RAS as mediators of metabolic disorders.

Effects of Sleeve Gastrectomy on the Metabolic Profile and on the Expression of Renin-Angiotensin System in Adipose Tissue of Obese Rats.

BACKGROUND: Sleeve gastrectomy (SG) has been used as a multipurpose surgical procedure for the treatment of obesity. OBJECTIVES: The present study aimed to assess the effects of SG on the metabolic and inflammatory profile and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) expression in the white adipose tissue of male rats with obesity induced by a high-fat diet. METHODS: Male Wistar rats were treated with a standard diet or high-fat diet and submitted to SG or sham surgery. The glycemic and lipid profiles and gene expression of inflammatory markers and RAS components in adipose tissue were evaluated. RESULTS: SG led to weight loss, decreased adiposity (p < 0.01) and a reduction in plasma glucose (p < 0.05), C-peptide (p < 0.05), insulin (p < 0.001) and total cholesterol (p < 0.05) levels. In addition, SG led to a decrease in the expression of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) (p < 0.01), interleukin- 6 (IL-6) (p < 0.001), angiotensinogen (AGT) (p < 0.001) and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) (p < 0.05) and increased the expression of angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) (p < 0.05) in white adipose tissue. No statistically significant differences were observed for AT1 (p = 0.10) and Mas (p = 0.22) receptors. CONCLUSION: This study showed that SG leads to weight loss and improves metabolic parameters. Changes in the expression of RAS components and of inflammatory molecules in adipose tissue seem to play a role the before beneficial effects of the SG.

Brown and White Adipose Tissue Expression of IL6, UCP1 and SIRT1 are Associated with Alterations in Clinical, Metabolic and Anthropometric Parameters in Obese Humans.

Aim: The present study aimed to analyze the expression of IL6, UCP1 and SIRT1 in adipose tissue (WAT and BAT) in association to clinical, metabolic and anthropometric parameters in obese humans. Methods: WAT and BAT samples from obese patients (n=27) were collected. IL6, UCP1 and SIRT1 markers were measured by qRT-PCR. The association between IL6, UCP1 and SIRT1 mRNA expression and anthropometric and clinical parameters were evaluated, using appropriate statistical tests. Results: Our results demonstrated that high levels of IL6 are associated with altered glucose levels in the WAT (p=0.01). In contrast, high levels of IL6 in the BAT were associated with decreased % fat (p=0.01) and fat weight (p=0.02) and increased mVO2 (p=0.02) and VO2 (p=0.02). For UCP1, a higher expression in the BAT was observed when compared to the WAT (p=0.0001). This gene expression was associated with lower values of BMI (p=0.03), % fat (P=0.02) and fat weight (P=0.02) and increased mVO2 (p=0.041) and VO2 (p=0.001). In the WAT, decreased levels of SIRT1 were associated with increased fat weight (p=0.02); in the BAT, associations were found for % fat (p=0.018) and mVO2 (p=0.03). Conclusion: These results reveal different characteristics in the biological actions between WAT and BAT in obese humans. Increased levels of IL6, UCP1 and SIRT1 in the BAT were associated with metabolic parameters improvements.

Análise Hierarquizada da Hipertensão Arterial Sistêmica com a Variante Polimórfica do Gene da ECA e Outros Fatores de Risco em Idosos / Hierarchical Analysis of Hypertension with the Polymorphic Variant of the ACE Gene and Other Risk Factors in the Elderly

Fundamento: A hipertensão arterial sistêmica (HAS) é uma condição clínica de etiologia multifatorial e de sério agravo à saúde do idoso. Apesar das alterações cardiovasculares influenciarem o desenvolvimento da HAS nesta faixa etária, vários outros fatores genéticos e ambientais têm sido descritos na literatura, incluindo a variante polimórfica do gene da enzima conversora da angiotensina (ECA) e a distribuição da gordura corporal. Objetivo: Avaliar a prevalência da HAS entre idosos e sua possível correlação com a variante polimórfica I/D do gene da ECA e outros fatores de risco associados. Métodos: Estudo de base populacional com 387 idosos residentes na zona urbana de Ibiaí (MG, Brasil) utilizando, para tal, um modelo hierarquizado. Resultados: À análise estatística, a variante polimórfica do gene da ECA não se mostrou associada à HAS (p = 0,316). Por outro lado, mostraram associação significativa com a HAS os fatores: sexo feminino, ausência de companheiro, consumo de mais de uma porção de sal ao dia e alterações nos índices de massa corporal e na relação cintura-quadril. Conclusão: Apesar da variante polimórfica da ECA não ter mostrado influência sobre a prevalência de HAS em idosos, algumas variáveis individuais, socioeconômicas, metabólicas e de hábitos comportamentais mostraram associação com esta condição

Background: Hypertension is a clinical condition of multifactorial etiology that imposes serious harm to the health of elderly individuals. Despite the fact that cardiovascular disorders influence the development of hypertension in this age group, several other genetic and environmental factors have been described in the literature, including the polymorphic variant of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene and the distribution of body fat. Objective: To assess the prevalence of hypertension among elderly individuals and its possible correlation with the I/D polymorphic variant of the ACE gene and other associated risk factors.Methods: Population-based study using a hierarchical model and including 387 elderly individuals residing in the urban area of Ibiaí (Minas Gerais, Brazil).Results: On statistical analysis, the polymorphic variant of the ACE gene was not associated with hypertension (p = 0.316). On the other hand, there was a significant association between hypertension and the variables female sex, absence of a partner, consumption of more than one portion of salt per day, and changes in body mass index and waist-to-hip ratio. Conclusion: Although the polymorphic variant of the ACE gene showed no influence on the prevalence of hypertension in elderly individuals, some variables such as individual, socioeconomic, metabolic, and behavioral habits were associated with this condition

Consumption of baru nuts (Dipteryx alata) in the treatment of obese mice / Consumo de amêndoa de baru (Dipteryx alata) no tratamento de camundongos com obesidade

ABSTRACT: The present study evaluated the effects of baru nut consumption on body weight, percent adiposity, amount of adipose tissue and blood levels in obese male Swiss mice. After inducing obesity by providing high-glucose diet (60 days), the mice were divided into 4 groups (7 animals per group) and were fed on a control diet (C), high-glucose diet (HG) or high-glucose diet added with baru (HGBA) or soybean oil (HGSO). Groups fed with diet HGBA had a decrease in the weight gain and glucose and triglyceride levels when compared to diet HG. Aimals fed with HG exhibited a higher proportion of epididymal and retroperitoneal adipose tissue. The inclusion of baru nut in the diet improved the control of weight gain and glucose and triglyceride levels in obese mice.

RESUMO: Este estudo analisou os efeitos do consumo de amêndoas de baru no peso corporal, percentagem de adiposidade, quantidade de tecido adiposo e parâmetros sanguíneos em camundongos Swiss machos e obesos. Após indução da obesidade pelo consumo de dieta hiperglicídica (60 dias), os camundongos foram divididos em 4 grupos (7 animais por grupo) e, consumiram dieta controle (C), hipergicídica (HG) ou hiperglicídica com adição de baru (HGBA) ou óleo de soja (HGOS). O grupo que ingeriu HGBA teve redução no ganho de peso e níveis de glicose e triglicérides comparados ao tratamento com dieta HG. Os animais alimentados com HG exibiram uma maior proporção de tecido adiposo epididimal e retroperitoneal. Conclui-se que a inclusão de amêndoa de baru na dieta melhora o controle do ganho de peso e os níveis de glicose e triglicérides em camundongos obesos.

Metformin Reduces Lipogenesis Markers in Obese Mice Fed a Low-Carbohydrate and High-Fat Diet.

Lipogenesis is the process by which fatty acids are synthesized. In metabolic syndrome, an insulin resistant state along with high plasma levels of free fatty acids (FFA) and hyperglycemia may contribute to the lipogenic process. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of oral administration of metformin on the expression of lipogenic genes and glycemic profile in mice fed with low-carbohydrate high-fat diet by evaluating their metabolic profile. SWISS male mice were divided into 4 groups (N = 7) that were fed with standard (ST), standard plus metformin (ST + MET), low-carbohydrate high-fat diet (LCHFD) and low-carbohydrate high-fat diet plus metformin (LCHFD + MET) (100 mg kg-1 diet) diets respectively. Food intake, body weight and blood parameters, such as glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, glucose, HDL-c, total cholesterol, triglycerides, ASL and ALT levels were assessed. Histological analyses were performed on hematoxylin and eosin-stained epididymal adipose tissue histological specimens. The expression levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPARγ), sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1), fatty acid synthase (FAS) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), were assessed by RT-PCR. This study showed that metformin decreased adipocyte area, body weight and food consumption in obese animals when compared to the standard group. Furthermore, the expression of lipogenic markers in adipose tissue were diminished in obese animals treated with metformin. This data showed that oral administration of metformin improved glucose and lipid metabolic parameters in white adipose tissue by reducing the expression of lipogenesis markers, suggesting an important clinical application of MET in treating obesity-related diseases in metabolic syndrome.

Distinct metabolic effects of resveratrol on lipogenesis markers in mice adipose tissue treated with high-polyunsaturated fat and high-protein diets.

OBJECTIVE: A healthy diet is essential for the prevention of metabolic syndrome. The present study evaluated the effect of resveratrol associated with high-polyunsaturated fat and high-protein diets on expression of adipogenic and lipogenic genes. RESEARCH METHODS & PROCEDURES: FVB/N mice were divided into 6 groups (n=7 each) and fed with experimental diets for 60days: standard (ST), high-fat diet (HFD), and high-protein diet (HPD), with and without resveratrol (RSV) (4g/kg diet). The body weight, food intake, energy intake (kcal), and blood parameters (HDL-C, total cholesterol, glucose, and triglyceride levels) were assessed. Real-time PCR was performed to analyze the expression of adipogenesis and lipogenesis markers: PPARγ, SREBP-1c, ACC and FAS in samples from perigonadal adipose tissue. RESULTS: In the HPD+RSV group, resveratrol decreased body weight, body adiposity, adipose tissue weight, adipocyte area, total cholesterol, ACC and FAS expression, and increased HDL-cholesterol in comparison to HPD. In the HPD group there was a decrease in adipocyte area, as well as PPARγ, SREBP-1c and ACC expression in comparison to ST. While in HFD+RSV, resveratrol decreased levels of total cholesterol in comparison to HFD. In the HFD group there was decrease in body weight, and PPARγ, SREBP-1c and ACC expression in comparison to ST. CONCLUSIONS: The obtained results show that resveratrol decreases lipogenesis markers and metabolic parameters in the setting of a high-protein diet. Moreover, resveratrol decreased total cholesterol in both diets. These results point to the increased potential of resveratrol use in prevention of metabolic syndrome, acting on different dietary compositions.

Resveratrol attenuates hepatic steatosis in high-fat fed mice by decreasing lipogenesis and inflammation.

OBJECTIVE: Resveratrol (RSV) is the most studied natural compound that activates sirtuins, which produce beneficial metabolic effects on lipid and glucose metabolism. The aim of the present study was to investigate the role of resveratrol in preventing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and expression of liver inflammatory markers in mice treated with a high-fat diet. METHODS AND PROCEDURES: Eighteen male mice were divided into three groups and fed for 60 d with a standard diet (ST), high-fat diet (HFD), or high-fat diet plus resveratrol (HFD + RSV, 30 mg/kg/d). Body weight, food intake, and serum total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, insulin, alanine transaminase (ALT), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were evaluated. Liver histology was analyzed. Expression of ACC, PPAR-γ, ChREBP, SREBP-1 c, CPT-1, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), NF-κB, interleukin 1 ß (IL-1 ß), and SIRT1 were evaluated by quantitative real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (qRT-PCR). RESULTS: The major finding of the present study was that RSV reduced body fat, total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, transaminases, and insulin plasma level. These results were accompanied with a significant reduction in TNF-α, IL-6, and NF-κB mRNA expression in the liver. Analyses of liver adipogenesis related genes indicated that ACC, PPAR-γ, and SREBP-1 mRNA expression were significantly suppressed in HFD + RSV mice. In addition, we observed increased expression of SIRT1 in the HFD + RSV group. CONCLUSIONS: We observed that treatment with resveratrol improved lipid metabolism, and decreased NAFLD and pro-inflammatory profile in liver of mice with obesity-inducible diets. These data suggest an important clinical application of RSV in preventing liver diseases.

Cross talk between angiotensin-(1-7)/Mas axis and sirtuins in adipose tissue and metabolism of high-fat feed mice.

Angiotensin-(1-7) and resveratrol have been described as new potential therapeutic tools on treating and preventing metabolic disorders. In the present study we aimed to evaluate the effect of an oral formulation of angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1-7)] included in HPB-cyclodextrin and resveratrol (RSV), in modulation of sirtuin and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in adipose tissue of mice treated with a high-fat diet (HFD). We observed that HFD+Ang-(1-7) and HFD+RSV groups presented marked decrease in the adipose tissue mass. Furthermore, these animals showed improved insulin-sensitivity and glucose tolerance as well as lower plasma levels of fasting glucose and lipids. The RT-PCR analysis revealed decreased expression of ACE and an increase of ACE2 [Ang-(1-7) marker] in group treated with resveratrol and also an increased expression of SIRT1 in groups that received Ang-(1-7). We showed for the first time that improved metabolic profile is associated with increased expression of GLUT4 and high expression of AMPK/FOXO1/PPAR-γ pathway in adipose-tissue. Finally, adipocyte primary cell-culture incubated with and without sirtuin and Ang-(1-7)/Mas antagonists pointed out for a cross-talking between RAS and sirtuins. We conclude that oral administration of Ang-(1-7) and RSV improved metabolic profile through a cross-modulation between RAS and Sirtuins.

Sirtuins and cancer: new insights and cell signaling.

Sirtuins are involved in the control of the cell cycle and regulation of gene transcription. While some sirtuins have tumor suppressor effects, others regulate tumors metabolism. Within this perspective, the present article is a review of the current role of sirtuins in the etiology and physiopathology of cancer. Sirtuins show strong potential to become a valuable predictive and prognostic marker for cancer and are eligible as therapeutic targets for a variety of tumors. Investigation of new molecules able to modulate sirtuins activity must be encouraged.

Brain activation of SIRT1: role in neuropathology.

Sirtuins (SIRTs) are a family of regulatory proteins of genetic information with a high degree of conservation among species. The SIRTs are heavily involved in several physiological functions including control of gene expression, metabolism, and aging. SIRT1 has been the most studied sirtuin and plays important role in the prevention and progression of neurodegenerative diseases acting in different pathways of proteins involved in brain function. SIRT1 activation regulates important genes that also exert neuroprotective actions such as p53, nuclear factor kappa B, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ), PPARγ coactivator-1α, liver X receptor, and forkhead box O. It is well established in literature that growing population aging, oxidative stress, inflammation, and genetic factors are important conditions to development of neurodegenerative disorders. However, the exact pathophysiological mechanisms leading to these diseases remain obscure. The sirtuins show strong potential to become valuable predictive and prognostic markers for diseases and as therapeutic targets for the treatment of a variety of neurodegenerative disorders. In this context, the aim of the current review is to present an actual view of the potential role of SIRT1 in modulating the interaction between target genes and neurodegenerative diseases on the brain.