Diacylglycerols and Lysophosphatidic Acid, Enriched on Lipoprotein(a), Contribute to Monocyte Inflammation.

BACKGROUND: Oxidized phospholipids play a key role in the atherogenic potential of lipoprotein(a) (Lp[a]); however, Lp(a) is a complex particle that warrants research into additional proinflammatory mediators. We hypothesized that additional Lp(a)-associated lipids contribute to the atherogenicity of Lp(a). METHODS: Untargeted lipidomics was performed on plasma and isolated lipoprotein fractions. The atherogenicity of the observed Lp(a)-associated lipids was tested ex vivo in primary human monocytes by RNA sequencing, ELISA, Western blot, and transendothelial migratory assays. Using immunofluorescence staining and single-cell RNA sequencing, the phenotype of macrophages was investigated in human atherosclerotic lesions. RESULTS: Compared with healthy individuals with low/normal Lp(a) levels (median, 7 mg/dL [18 nmol/L]; n=13), individuals with elevated Lp(a) levels (median, 87 mg/dL [218 nmol/L]; n=12) demonstrated an increase in lipid species, particularly diacylglycerols (DGs) and lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). DG and the LPA precursor lysophosphatidylcholine were enriched in the Lp(a) fraction. Ex vivo stimulation with DG(40:6) demonstrated a significant upregulation in proinflammatory pathways related to leukocyte migration, chemotaxis, NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa B) signaling, and cytokine production. Functional assessment showed a dose-dependent increase in the secretion of IL (interleukin)-6, IL-8, and IL-1ß after DG(40:6) and DG(38:4) stimulation, which was, in part, mediated via the NLRP3 (NOD [nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain]-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3) inflammasome. Conversely, LPA-stimulated monocytes did not exhibit an inflammatory phenotype. Furthermore, activation of monocytes by DGs and LPA increased their transendothelial migratory capacity. Human atherosclerotic plaques from patients with high Lp(a) levels demonstrated colocalization of Lp(a) with M1 macrophages, and an enrichment of CD68+IL-18+TLR4+ (toll-like receptor) TREM2+ (triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells) resident macrophages and CD68+CASP1+ (caspase) IL-1B+SELL+ (selectin L) inflammatory macrophages compared with patients with low Lp(a). Finally, potent Lp(a)-lowering treatment (pelacarsen) resulted in a reduction in specific circulating DG lipid subspecies in patients with cardiovascular disease with elevated Lp(a) levels (median, 82 mg/dL [205 nmol/L]). CONCLUSIONS: Lp(a)-associated DGs and LPA have a potential role in Lp(a)-induced monocyte inflammation by increasing cytokine secretion and monocyte transendothelial migration. This DG-induced inflammation is, in part, NLRP3 inflammasome dependent.

Efficacy of a wheat polar lipid complex in reducing hair loss and improving hair growth in healthy women: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study.

OBJECTIVE: Hair loss is a major source of psychological distress for affected people. Safe and natural ingredients are therefore needed to help reduce hair loss and stimulate hair growth. This pilot clinical study aimed at exploring the efficacy of a wheat polar lipid complex (WPLC, Ceramosides™), containing sphingolipids and digalactosyl diglycerides, on hair characteristics improvement in women showing acute hair shedding. METHODS: Sixty-six women presenting a proportion of hair in the telogen phase greater than 15% were recruited and allocated to two groups, each including at least 10 postmenopausal women. For 84 days, participants consumed 30 mg/day of the WPLC supplement, or the placebo. Their hair characteristics were assessed after 56 and 84 days using phototrichogram evaluations of hairs in anagen/telogen phases, measuring hair shedding by a pull test, hair diameter and elongation at break point, hair growth and scalp sebum content. Hair density and volume were also clinically evaluated. All these parameters were also investigated in the subgroup of postmenopausal women. RESULTS: WPLC supplementation decreased telogen hair density/proportion while increasing the anagen hair density/proportion. These effects were significant compared with the placebo as early as within 56 days. It also led to reduced hair shedding upon pull test analyses. If no changes were evidenced in hair diameter, WPLC improved hair growth and resistance to breakage after 84 days. Clinical evaluations also showed hair density and volume improvement. Furthermore, supplementation decreased scalp sebum content in women with oily hair. The beneficial effects were also observed in the subgroup of postmenopausal women. Finally, WPLC supplementation improved participants' perception of their hair conditions. CONCLUSION: Through a reducing effect on hair shedding and a stimulating effect on hair reappearance and growth, WPLC dietary supplementation was shown to significantly reduce hair loss in women.

OBJECTIF: La chute de cheveux est une source importante de détresse psychologique pour les personnes concernées. Des ingrédients naturels et sûrs sont nécessaires pour permettre de réduire la chute et stimuler la croissance des cheveux. Cette étude clinique pilote avait pour objectif d'étudier la capacité d'un complexe de lipides polaires extraits du blé (WPLC), composé de sphingolipides et de digalactosyl diglycerides, à améliorer la qualité des cheveux chez des femmes présentant une chute de cheveux diffuse et aiguë. MÉTHODES: Soixante­six femmes présentant un taux de cheveux en phase télogène supérieur à 15% ont été recrutées et séparées en deux groupes, chacun comprenant au moins dix femmes ménopausées. Pendant 84 jours, les volontaires ont consommé le supplément à une dose de 30 mg/jour, ou le placebo. Leur chevelure a été évaluée après 56 et 84 jours de supplémentation en quantifiant les cheveux en phase anagène/télogène grâce à un phototrichogramme, en évaluant la chute de cheveux grâce à un test de traction, en mesurant le diamètre, l'élongation et la croissance des cheveux, et en quantifiant le taux de sébum du cuir chevelu. La densité et le volume de la chevelure ont été évalués cliniquement. Tous ces paramètres ont également été analysés dans le sous­groupe de femmes ménopausées. RÉSULTATS: Une diminution de la densité et de la proportion des cheveux en phase télogène a été observée, en association avec une augmentation de la densité et de la proportion des cheveux en phase anagène. Ces résultats sont statistiquement significatifs en comparaison avec le placebo, et ce, dès 56 jours. La chute de cheveux, mesurée par le test de traction, a également été significativement réduite. Bien qu'aucun changement n'ait été observé concernant le diamètre des cheveux, le supplément a amélioré la résistance à la casse et la croissance des cheveux après 84 jours d'utilisation. L'évaluation clinique a montré une amélioration de la densité et du volume de la chevelure. De plus, la supplémentation a entraîné une réduction du taux de sébum du cuir chevelu chez les femmes présentant des cheveux à tendance grasse. Les effets bénéfiques de la supplémentation ont également été observés dans le sous­groupe des femmes ménopausées. Enfin, la prise du supplément a également été associée à une amélioration de la perception des volontaires concernant la qualité de leurs cheveux. CONCLUSION: Grâce à un effet réducteur sur la chute de cheveux et un effet stimulateur sur la repousse et la croissance des cheveux, cette étude a démontré l'efficacité de la supplémentation nutritionnelle avec WPLC à atténuer la perte de cheveux chez la femme.

Chemical transesterification of coconut and corn oils using different metal hydroxides as catalysts to determine the chemical and physiochemical changes to the oils.

BACKGROUND: The transesterification of butteroil has been shown to alter its lipid chemistry and thus alter the crystallization of the fat. The reaction kinetics and resulting crystallization of the butteroil differ depending on the nature of the catalyst used. Modeling the reaction with vegetable oils is a simpler method for the analysis of resulting products to understand the chemical and physiochemical changes that occur based on catalyst selection. The objective of this work is to perform a chemical transesterification of coconut and corn oil using monovalent and divalent catalysts to investigate the chemical and crystal changes that occur. RESULTS: Coconut and corn oil were subjected to chemical transesterification using both Ca(OH)2 and KOH as catalysts. In both the coconut and corn oil samples, transesterification caused monoglycerides (MAGs) and diacylglycerides (DAGs) to form from the most abundant fatty acid found in each sample. Coconut oil's melting temperature, solid fat content (SFC), and storage modulus decreased as a result of the transesterification, and crystals began to form in the corn oil causing melting thermograms to be evident, higher SFC, and a more viscous oil as a result. Using Ca(OH)2 as a catalyst resulted in more MAG formation, and a higher SFC and melting temperature than when KOH was used as a catalyst. CONCLUSION: The results demonstrate that the chemical changes that result from transesterification of plant-based oils change the crystallization behavior of the oils and can therefore be used for different applications in the food industry. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.

Gut Microbiota, Plasma Metabolomic Profiles, and Carotid Artery Atherosclerosis in HIV Infection.

BACKGROUND: Alterations in gut microbiota and blood metabolomic profiles have been implicated in HIV infection and cardiovascular disease. However, it remains unclear whether alterations in gut microbiota may contribute to disrupted host blood metabolomic profiles in relation to atherosclerosis, especially in the context of HIV infection. METHODS: We analyzed cross-sectional associations between gut microbiota features and carotid artery plaque in 361 women with or at high risk of HIV (67% HIV+), and further integrated plaque-associated microbial features with plasma lipidomic/metabolomic profiles. Furthermore, in 737 women and men, we examined prospective associations of baseline gut bacteria-associated lipidomic and metabolomic profiles with incident carotid artery plaque over 7-year follow-up. RESULTS: We found 2 potentially pathogenic bacteria, Fusobacterium and Proteus, were associated with carotid artery plaque; while the beneficial butyrate producer Odoribacter was inversely associated with plaque. Fusobacterium and Proteus were associated with multiple lipids/metabolites which were clustered into 8 modules in network. A module comprised of 9 lysophosphatidylcholines and lysophosphatidylethanolamines and a module comprised of 9 diglycerides were associated with increased risk of carotid artery plaque (risk ratio [95% CI], 1.34 [1.09-1.64] and 1.24 [1.02-1.51] per SD increment, respectively). Functional analyses identified bacterial enzymes in lipid metabolism associated with these plasma lipids. In particular, phospholipase A1 and A2 are the key enzymes in the reactions producing lysophosphatidylcholines and lysophosphatidylethanolamines. CONCLUSIONS: Among individuals with or at high risk of HIV infection, we identified altered gut microbiota and related functional capacities in the lipid metabolism associated with disrupted plasma lipidomic profiles and carotid artery atherosclerosis.

Characterisation of Sclerocarya birrea (marula) seed oil and investigation of the geographical origin by applying similarity calculations, differential NMR and hierarchical cluster analysis.

INTRODUCTION: The marula fruit is an important indigenous African fruit since various commercial products are produced from the pulp and the seed oil. The increased demand requires methods for authentication, quality control and determination of geographical origin. OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to establish a fast and reliable method for characterisation and authentication of marula seed oil. Furthermore, to identify marker compounds that can distinguish marula seed oils from other commercial oils and indicate regional differences. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Metabolic profiling of 44 commercial marula seed oils was performed using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1 H NMR). For rapid classification similarity calculations were compared with principal component analysis. Differential NMR was used to determine marker compounds. RESULTS: Marula seed oil was found to be similar to macadamia and olive oils and was distinguished from these oils by the detection of minor components. Marula seed oil is differentiated from the other two oils by the absence of α-linolenic acid, relatively high levels of monoglycerides and diglycerides, and an approximately 1:1 ratio of 1,2- and 1,3-diglycerides. When comparing marula seed oils from various regions using hierarchical cluster analysis, clustering of the marula seed oils from Namibia and Zimbabwe was observed and was related to the quantities of linoleic acid and monoglycerides and diglycerides. Some samples displayed deviations in their composition which might indicate adulteration or contamination during the production process. CONCLUSION: The study demonstrates the potential of NMR as a tool in the quality control of marula seed oil. This technique requires very little sample preparation, circumvents derivatisation of the oil components with fast run-times. In addition, samples with chemical profiles that differ from the general signature profile can easily be identified.

Estimating relative diglyceride to triglyceride content with localized MRS at 3 T.

It has been previously shown that the MRS sequence stimulated echo acquisition mode (STEAM; mixing time, TM = 20 ms) with an echo time (TE) of 100 ms resolves triglyceride glycerol resonances from that of water at 3 T. The purpose of this work is to determine if STEAM with a TE of 100 ms facilitates relative quantification of diglyceride/triglyceride levels at 3 T. Spectra were obtained from tricaprylin (triglyceride) and dicaprylin (diglyceride) with a range of STEAM TE values (TM = 20 ms). TE values that resulted in two resolved glycerol resonances for triglycerides (rendering them suitable for distinguishing triglyceride contributions from those of diglycerides) were selected. One resonance resides in the 3.85-4.2 ppm spectral range (overlapping the 1,3-diglyceride resonance) and the other in the 4.2-4.6 ppm spectral range (overlapping one of the 1,2-diglyceride resonances). STEAM with TE values of 40 ms and 100 ms (TM = 20 ms) yielded two resolvable triglyceride resonances (tricaprylin phantom), at about 4 ppm and 4.4 ppm. Direct integration of the resonances showed that the former peak has 0.86 and 0.17 times the area of the latter for TE = 40 ms and 100 ms, respectively. Spectra obtained from the phantoms containing mixtures of diglyceride (1,3-dicaprylin) and triglyceride (tricaprylin) were acquired. The triglyceride contribution to the 4 ppm glycerol resonance, a mixture of signal from 1,3-diglyceride and triglyceride, can be approximated from the area of the 4.4 ppm peak, resulting in an estimate of the 1,3-diglyceride contribution. Analysis was performed for STEAM TE = 40 ms and TE = 100 ms spectra acquired from phantoms with 1,3-dicaprylin/tricaprylin weight/weight contents of 2.5%/97.5%, 5%/95%, 10%/90% and 20%/80%. Concentration ratios of 1,3-dicaprylin/tricaprylin estimated with both STEAM TE values resulted in linear correlations with expected concentration ratios (R2 > 0.99).

Carboxylesterase 2 proteins are efficient diglyceride and monoglyceride lipases possibly implicated in metabolic disease.

Carboxylesterase 2 (CES2/Ces2) proteins exert established roles in (pro)drug metabolism. Recently, human and murine CES2/Ces2c have been discovered as triglyceride (TG) hydrolases implicated in the development of obesity and fatty liver disease. The murine Ces2 family consists of seven homologous genes as opposed to a single CES2 gene in humans. However, the mechanistic role of Ces2 protein family members is not completely understood. In this study, we examined activities of all Ces2 members toward TGs, diglycerides (DGs), and monoglycerides (MGs) as the substrate. Besides CES2/Ces2c, we measured significant TG hydrolytic activities for Ces2a, Ces2b, and Ces2e. Notably, these Ces2 members and CES2 efficiently hydrolyzed DGs and MGs, and their activities even surpassed those measured for TG hydrolysis. The localization of CES2/Ces2c proteins at the ER may implicate a role of these lipases in lipid signaling pathways. We found divergent expression of Ces2 genes in the liver and intestine of mice on a high-fat diet, which could relate to changes in lipid signaling. Finally, we demonstrate reduced CES2 expression in the colon of patients with inflammatory bowel disease and a similar decline in Ces2 expression in the colon of a murine colitis model. Together, these results demonstrate that CES2/Ces2 members are highly efficient DG and MG hydrolases that may play an important role in liver and gut lipid signaling.

Preparing spray-dried cholesterol free salad dressing emulsified with enzymatically synthesized mixed mono- and diglycerides from rice bran oil and glycerol.

A spray-dried cholesterol free salad dressing powder was developed using mixed mono- and diglycerides (MG-DG) as emulsifier. The optimum conditions for enzymatic synthesis of the MG-DG from rice bran oil (RBO) and glycerol (Gly) using Candida antarctica lipase was investigated. The synthesis was done by glycerolysis of refined RBO and Gly at molar ratios of 2:1, 2.5:1 and 3:1 (Gly to RBO) and enzyme concentrations of 2% and 5%. Highest MG and DG yield (0.54 ± 0.01 and 0.49.03 ± 0.0 mg/mL) was obtained in sample prepared using 2:1 molar ratio and 5% enzyme concentration and this sample is considered optimum. Salad dressings prepared using 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5% MG-DG concentration (of optimum MG-DG) were spray dried at inlet temperatures of 150, 160 and 170 °C to find the best conditions. Salad dressing of 0.5% MG-DG spray-dried at 170 °C had the highest powder yield (42.70%), solubility (98.04%) and stability (100%). After reconstitution, this optimum sample was compared well next to a control salad dressing prepared using commercial distilled monoglycerides. These findings demonstrate the feasibility of preparing a spray dried salad dressing powder with the synthesized MG-DG as an emulsifier.

Effects of starch addition on the activity and specificity of food-grade lipases.

Lipases are surface-active enzymes, acting on their substrates at the polar/nonpolar interface in emulsions. This study was aimed to test whether their activity, specificity, and the rates of formation/degradation of the various hydrolysis intermediates (i.e., mono- and diglycerides of interest as surface-active agents) could be modulated by adhesion of the triglyceride substrates as a thin layer on the surface of solids. These hypotheses were tested by using an array of food-grade lipases used in bakery, testing various types of starch as the "solid" phase. Starch-dependent increase in the hydrolysis rate was tested by pH-stat techniques on pure triglycerides and on food-grade oils in diluted emulsions. Starch-related improvements in the rate of fatty acids release were most evident at temperatures above 40 °C, and when using maize starch instead of wheat starch. Starch-dependent changes in the nature of the hydrolysis products were tested by chromatographic profiling of ethyl ether extracts from aqueous slurries containing up to 33% fat and 33% starch. Accumulation of mono- and diglycerides as hydrolysis intermediates was found to be modulated by the type of oil being used, by the reaction conditions, as well as by the enzyme nature and amount.

Lipomatrix: A Novel Ascorbyl Palmitate-Based Lipid Matrix to Enhancing Enteric Absorption of Serenoa Repens Oil.

The class of lipophilic compounds coming from vegetal source represents a perspective in the adjuvant treatment of several human diseases, despite their poor bioavailability in humans. These compounds are generally soluble in fats and poorly soluble in water. The major reason for the poor bioavailability of lipophilic natural compounds after oral uptake in humans is related to their reduced solubility in enteric water-based fluids, leading to an ineffective contact with absorbing epithelium. The main goal to ensure efficacy of such compounds is then creating technological conditions to deliver them into the first enteric tract as hydro-dispersible forms to maximize epithelial absorption. The present work describes and characterizes a new technological matrix (Lipomatrix, Labomar Research, Istrana, TV, Italy) based on a molten fats core in which Ascorbyl Palmitate is embedded, able to deliver lipophilic compounds in a well-dispersed and emulsified form once exposed to duodenal fluids. Authors describe and quantify Lipomatrix delivery of Serenoa repens oil through an innovative in vitro model of human gastro-enteric digestion, reporting results of its improved bioaccessibility, enteric absorption and efficacy compared with not formulated Serenoa repens oil-containing commercial products using in vitro models of human intestine and prostatic tissue.

Moose and Caribou as Novel Sources of Functional Lipids: Fatty Acid Esters of Hydroxy Fatty Acids, Diglycerides and Monoacetyldiglycerides.

Fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFA), diglycerides (DG) and monoacetyldiglycerides (MAcDG) are gaining interest as functional lipids in pharmaceuticals and functional food formulations for managing and treating metabolic or inflammatory diseases. Herein, we investigated whether the antler and/or meat of two Cervids (moose and caribou) are novel sources of FAHFA, DG and MAcDG. We observed FAHFA present in moose and caribou composed mainly of polyunsaturated families, and that the esterification occurred frequently at the C5-hydroxy fatty acid moiety, most noticeably arachidonic acid 5-hydroxyeicosatrienoic acid (ARA-5-HERA). Moose antler, caribou and moose meat also contained significant levels of both 1,2-DG and 1,3-DG lipids. The 1,3-DG molecular species consisted mainly of 16:0/18:1, 18:0/16:0, and 18:0/18:1. On the other hand, major 1,2-DG species consisted of DG 18:0/18:0, 16:0/16:0 and 18:1/18:1 molecular species with higher levels in the antler compared to the meat. The molecular species composition of MAcDG was very simple and consisted of 14:2/18:2/2:0, 16:0/18:2/2:0, 16:0/18:1/2:0 and 18:0/18:1/2:0 with the first species 14:2/18:2/2:0 predominating in the tip of moose antlers. Increasing access to and knowledge of the presence of these functional lipids in foods will enhance their intake in the diet with potential implications in improving personal and population health.

Utilization of molecular distillation for determining the effects of some minor compounds on the quality and frying stability of olive pomace oil.

The objective of this study was to determine the effects of some minor components such as squalene and mono- and diglycerides (MDG) on the frying stability of olive pomace oil. Refined olive pomace oil was distilled using a falling film type short-path distillation unit at 230 °C under a pressure of 0.02 mbar to remove minor components. Distilled olive pomace oil was introduced with approximately 10,000 mg/kg of squalene and 2.5% of MDG. Fryings were performed 8 times/day at 180 °C for 3 min. Whole frying procedure proceeded for 5 days. Total polar compounds, polymerized triglycerides (PTG), free fatty acids, viscosity, color index, p-anisidine value, smoke point, fatty acid composition and iodine values of the oils were monitored. Results indicated that all criteria except smoke point and iodine value increased in all fractions during fryings. The lowest total polar compound was obtained in distilled olive pomace oil while PTG was the lowest in the MDG added fraction. Lower increases in viscosity and color indexes were recorded in squalene incorporated samples. It was observed that squalene and MDG were not effective on the oxidation rate of unsaturated fatty acids during frying.

Untargeted Profiling of Concordant/Discordant Phenotypes of High Insulin Resistance and Obesity To Predict the Risk of Developing Diabetes.

This study explores the metabolic profiles of concordant/discordant phenotypes of high insulin resistance (IR) and obesity. Through untargeted metabolomics (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS), we analyzed the fasting serum of subjects with high IR and/or obesity ( n = 64). An partial least-squares discriminant analysis with orthogonal signal correction followed by univariate statistics and enrichment analysis allowed exploration of these metabolic profiles. A multivariate regression method (LASSO) was used for variable selection and a predictive biomarker model to identify subjects with high IR regardless of obesity was built. Adrenic acid and a dyglyceride (DG) were shared by high IR and obesity. Uric and margaric acids, 14 DGs, ketocholesterol, and hydroxycorticosterone were unique to high IR, while arachidonic, hydroxyeicosatetraenoic (HETE), palmitoleic, triHETE, and glycocholic acids, HETE lactone, leukotriene B4, and two glutamyl-peptides to obesity. DGs and adrenic acid differed in concordant/discordant phenotypes, thereby revealing protective mechanisms against high IR also in obesity. A biomarker model formed by DGs, uric and adrenic acids presented a high predictive power to identify subjects with high IR [AUC 80.1% (68.9-91.4)]. These findings could become relevant for diabetes risk detection and unveil new potential targets in therapeutic treatments of IR, diabetes, and obesity. An independent validated cohort is needed to confirm these results.

Effect of mono- and diglycerides on the digestion and absorption of lutein in lymph fistula rats.

Breast milk lutein is better absorbed by infants than lutein delivered in infant formula. Therefore, we wanted to better understand the possible absorption differences of lutein in breast milk vs. that in infant formula by determining its bioavailability after gastric administration and whether the intestinal absorption of lutein can be improved by using new delivery vehicles. Study 1 compared the intestinal uptake,and the lymphatic and portal transport of lutein in conscious lymph fistula rats. Four groups of lymph- and portal vein-cannulated rats ( n = 8-10/group) were randomized to receive via gastric tube increasing doses (10, 20, 40, or 80 mg/kg) of 20% lutein in safflower oil (SO) suspension to assess whether there was a saturable level of lutein that could be absorbed and transported in lymph. Aliquots of hourly portal blood and lymph were taken for lutein and zeaxanthin analyses. The dose-response study showed that 20 mg/kg lutein was the saturable level of lymphatic lutein absorption with no lutein detected in portal circulation at any dosage level tested. Study 2 randomized five groups of lymph fistula rats ( n = 4-9/group) to receive 20 mg/kg lutein from either lutein in SO or lutein in four different mono- and diglyceride oils (MDGs). Gastric infusion of lutein suspended in MDG (20 mg/kg) significantly improved (71-211%, P < 0.05) lymphatic lutein output 2-6 h after lipid feeding vs. lutein in SO. Lymphatic zeaxanthin (10% of the lutein fed mixture) transport in both Study 1 and Study 2 followed that of lutein. We conclude that a mixture of MDGs helps solubilize lutein and facilitate gastrointestinal micelle formation, thus improving lymphatic lutein absorption compared with triglyceride oils. NEW & NOTEWORTHY This paper describes how lutein is digested and absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract by using the conscious lymph fistula rat model. Our dose-response study showed that absorption and lymphatic transport of lutein is a saturable process with no lutein detected in portal circulation at any dosage level tested. Our paper also provides insight into how this process can be improved by modifying the typical lipid mixtures carrying the lutein.

Mono- and diglycerides improve lutein absorption in healthy adults: a randomised, double-blind, cross-over, single-dose study.

With the association between increased carotenoid intake and lower risk of chronic diseases, the absorption of lutein from the diet becomes an important factor in its delivery and physiological action. The primary objective of this study was to gain an understanding of how a new formulation technology (mixture of mono- and diglycerides (MDG)), affected lutein absorption. Subjects (n 24) were randomised in a cross-over, double-blind study to receive a single dose of 6 mg lutein (FloraGLO 20 %) provided as capsules containing either high-oleic safflower (SAF) oil or a MDG oil. Subjects receiving a single dose of lutein in MDG showed a significantly greater change from baseline (0 h) to 4, 6, 8, 12, 24, 48 and 336 h (P<0·05) and baseline adjusted AUC for plasma lutein at 48 and 336 h (P<0·001) as compared with subjects given lutein in SAF. Analysis of the 48 h absorption kinetics of lutein showed that the time to peak level of lutein (12 h) was the same for SAF and MDG groups, but the change in plasma lutein at 12 and 48 h were 129 and 320 % higher, respectively, for MDG compared with SAF. This difference continued as the adjusted AUC 0-48 and 0-336 h for the MDG group was 232 and 900 % higher, respectively, v. SAF. The study data show that by changing the lipid that is combined with a lutein supplement results in significant increases in lutein absorption in healthy adults.

Dietary supplementation with a wheat polar lipid complex improves skin conditions in women with dry skin and mild-to-moderate skin aging.

BACKGROUND: Aging, menopause, and seasonal changes alter the lipid composition of the outermost skin layer, the stratum corneum, resulting in dry and itchy skin. AIMS: This clinical trial aimed at evaluating the effects of a wheat polar lipid complex (WPLC) on skin characteristics in women showing dry and wrinkled skin, investigating its effects in a subgroup of postmenopausal women, and assessing if benefits were maintained after supplementation. METHODS: Seventy-two women with dry and wrinkled skin were recruited in this double-blind, randomized, parallel-group study, and allocated to three groups of 24 subjects, each including at least 10 postmenopausal women. For 56 days, subjects consumed the WPLC supplement (oil or powder), or the placebo. Skin hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), elasticity, and profilometry were evaluated at baseline, after 14, 28, and 56 days of supplementation, and 56 days after the end of supplementation. Additionally, a lipidomic analysis was performed to examine changes in superficial skin layers over 56 days. RESULTS: Dietary supplementation with WPLC rapidly improved all parameters. It increased skin hydration, smoothness, and elasticity while decreasing TEWL, roughness, and wrinkle depth after only 14 days of supplementation. These effects were also observed in the subpopulation of postmenopausal women and led to an improved self-perception of skin. For all the parameters, outcomes were not maintained after the supplementation was stopped. The lipidomic analysis revealed 10 compounds evolving over the 56 days of WPLC supplementation. CONCLUSION: WPLC supplementation improved skin hydration, smoothness, elasticity, and wrinkledness within 14 days and, as expected, did not last after supplementation was stopped.

Recent advances in studying crystallisation of mono- and di-glycerides at oil-water interfaces.

This review focuses on the current understanding regarding lipid crystallisation at oil-water interfaces. The main aspects of crystallisation in bulk lipids will be introduced, allowing for a more comprehensive overview of the crystallisation processes within emulsions. Additionally, the properties of an emulsion and the impact of lipid crystallisation on emulsion stability will be discussed. The effect of different emulsifiers on lipid crystallisation at oil-water interfaces will also be reviewed, however, this will be limited to their impact on the interfacial crystallisation of monoglycerides and diglycerides. The final part of the review highlights the recent methodologies used to study crystallisation at oil-water interfaces.

Physicochemical Quantitative Analysis of the Oil-Water Interface as Affected by the Mutual Interactions between Pea Protein Isolate and Mono- and Diglycerides.

As a commercially available ingredient, the mono- and diglycerides (MDG) were widely used in a plant protein-based emulsion to provide effective, functional, emulsifying properties. The simultaneous addition of the MDG and pea protein isolate (PPI) was investigated by the methods of interfacial rheology and quantitative protein proteomics. The physicochemical quantitative analysis of the oil-water interface revealed an interfacial stability mechanism for the protein adsorption layer. For a low MDG concentration, the interfacial quantities of vicilin and albumin were increased, which could be attributed to the adsorption rate. For a high MDG concentration, both vicilin and albumin were displaced by MDG and desorbed from the interface, while legumin was more difficult to displace due to its slow adsorption and the complex structure of protein molecules. The protein molecules with the structural rearrangement interacted with MDG, exhibiting potential effects on the interfacial film structure. Combined with some nanotechnologies, the new comprehension of protein-emulsifier interactions may promote food delivery systems. The research aims to develop an in-depth analysis of interfacial proteins, and provide more innovative and tailored functionalities for the application of the plant protein emulsion.

Influence of varying oil phase volume fractions on the characteristics of flaxseed-derived diglyceride-based Pickering emulsions stabilized by modified soy protein isolate.

This research aimed to create Pickering emulsions using modified soy protein isolate (SPI) as a stabilizer and flaxseed-derived diglyceride (DAG) as an oil phase. The SPI was modified through a process involving both heating and ultrasound treatment. The result indicated that the droplet size of emulsions increased with the increase in oil content (p < 0.05). For instance, the largest droplet size (23 µm) was observed at an oil-to-SPI dispersion ratio of 4:1 ratio (φ = 80), whereas the smallest droplet size (6.39 µm) was noticed at the 1:4 ratio. During the 7-day storage period, the emulsions with a 4:1 ratio (φ = 80) showed the lowest droplet size increase (from 23 µm to 25.58 µm). In contrast, the emulsions with a 1:1 ratio displayed the highest increase (from 19.39 µm to 74.29 µm). Creaming index results revealed that emulsions with a 4:1 ratio (φ = 80) showed no signs of creaming and phase separation than all other treatments (p < 0.05). Backscattering fluctuations (ΔBS) and turbiscan stability index (TSI) showed that emulsions with 4:1, 2:1, and 1:1 oil-to-SPI dispersion ratios had consistent ΔBS curves with higher and TSI curves with lower values. Optical microscopy, confocal laser scanning, and cryo-scanning electron microscopy revealed that emulsions with oil-to-SPI dispersion ratios of 4:1 and 2:1 had well-organized structures with no visible coalescence. Macromorphological and microrheological investigations demonstrated that emulsions with 80% oil content had the highest viscosity, both moduli, elasticity index, macroscopic viscosity index, and the lowest fluidity index and solid-liquid balance values. Moreover, these emulsions were more resistant to centrifugation and storage environments. In conclusion, the study determined that flaxseed-derived DAG-based high internal phase Pickering emulsions (φ = 80) had superior stability, improved viscoelasticity, and better rheological properties.

Omega-3 fatty acid diglyceride emulsions as a novel injectable acute therapeutic in neonatal hypoxic-ischemic brain injury.

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), resulting from a lack of blood flow and oxygen before or during newborn delivery, is a leading cause of cerebral palsy and neurological disability in children. Therapeutic hypothermia (TH), the current standard of care in HIE, is only beneficial in 1 of 7-8 cases. Therefore, there is a critical need for more efficient treatments. We have previously reported that omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids (FA) carried by triglyceride (TG) lipid emulsions provide neuroprotection after experimental hypoxic-ischemic (HI) injury in neonatal mice. Herein, we propose a novel acute therapeutic approach using an n-3 diglyceride (DG) lipid emulsions. Importantly, n-3 DG preparations had much smaller particle size compared to commercially available or lab-made n-3 TG emulsions. We showed that n-3 DG molecules have the advantage of incorporating at substantially higher levels than n-3 TG into an in vitro model of phospholipid membranes. We also observed that n-3 DG after parenteral administration in neonatal mice reaches the bloodstream more rapidly than n-3 TG. Using neonatal HI brain injury models in mice and rats, we found that n-3 DG emulsions provide superior neuroprotection than n-3 TG emulsions or TH in decreasing brain infarct size. Additionally, we found that n-3 DGs attenuate microgliosis and astrogliosis. Thus, n-3 DG emulsions are a superior, promising, and novel therapy for treating HIE.