The Influence of Plants from the Alliaceae Family on Morphological Parameters of the Intestine in Atherogenic Rats.

Bulbs from the Alliaceae family have been well-known and valued spices for thousands of years, not only for their unique flavor and aroma features, but also for their high nutritional and health-promoting values. Long-term or excessive consumption of these vegetables, especially raw garlic, can have side effects in the body (including in the digestive tract), causing a number of pathological changes in the intestinal wall; these changes lead, in turn, to its damage, dysfunction, and disorder development. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the addition of freeze-dried vegetables from the Alliaceae family, i.e., garlic (Allium sativum L.), white onion, and red onion (Allium cepa L.) on the morphometric parameters (intestinal villi length, crypt depth, thickness of tunica mucosa, and the thickness of tunica muscle) of the jejunum of rats fed a semi-synthetic atherogenic diet (1% dietary cholesterol). In freeze-dried vegetables administered to rats, the contents of selected bioactive ingredients and their antioxidant potentials were determined. The effect of the onion vegetable supplements on growth parameters, serum lipid profile, plasma antioxidant potential, and the intestinal morphological parameters of rats loaded with cholesterol was determined. In an animal experiment, 30 male Wistar rats were divided into 5 diet groups, diet consumption and FER were studied. Supplementation of the atherogenic diet with vegetables improved the blood plasma lipid profiles and atherogenic indices, in a manner that was dependent on the type of supplementation used, with the best hypolipidemic and anti-atherosclerotic effects found in garlic use. The atherogenic diet, as well as the supplementation of this diet with the tested vegetables from the Alliaceae family, influenced the histological changes in the epithelium of the jejunum of rats. The damage to the intestinal mucosa was the greatest in animals fed an atherogenic diet supplemented with garlic. Bearing in mind that the desired beneficial therapeutic or prophylactic effects of onion vegetables (in particular garlic) in the course of various metabolic ailments (including atherosclerosis) are achieved during long-term supplementation, it is important to remember their possible cytotoxic effects (e.g., on the digestive tract) in order to achieve real benefits related to the supplementation with vegetables from the Alliaceae family.

Dietary Fruit and Vegetable Supplementation Suppresses Diet-Induced Atherosclerosis in LDL Receptor Knockout Mice.

BACKGROUND: Epidemiologic studies suggest that fruit and vegetable (F&V) consumption is inversely associated with incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). However, evidence for causality is lacking, and the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. OBJECTIVES: We aimed to determine whether there is a causal relation between consuming high levels of F&V and prevention of atherosclerosis, the hallmark of CVD pathogenesis. Furthermore, the underlying mechanisms were determined. METHODS: Six-week-old male LDL receptor-knockout mice were randomly assigned to 3 diet groups (12 mice/group) for 20 wk: control (CON, 10% kcal fat, 0.20 g/kg cholesterol), atherogenic (Ath, 27% kcal fat, 0.55 g/kg cholesterol), and Ath supplemented with 15% F&V (Ath + FV) (equivalent to 8-9 servings/d in humans). F&V was added as a freeze-dried powder that was prepared from the 24 most commonly consumed F&Vs in the United States. Body weight, aortic atherosclerotic lesion area, hepatic steatosis area, serum lipid profile and proinflammatory cytokine TNF-α concentrations, gut microbiota, and liver TNF-α and fatty acid synthase (Fasn) mRNA concentrations were assessed. RESULTS: F&V supplementation did not affect weight gain. Mice fed the Ath + FV diet had a smaller aortic atherosclerotic lesion area (71.7% less) and hepatic steatosis area (80.7% less) than those fed the Ath diet (both P < 0.001) independent of impact on weight, whereas no difference was found between Ath + FV and CON groups in these 2 pathologic markers. Furthermore, F&V supplementation prevented Ath diet-induced dyslipidemia (high concentrations of serum TG and VLDL cholesterol and lower concentrations of HDL cholesterol), reduced serum TNF-α concentration (by 21.5%), suppressed mRNA expression of liver TNF-α and Fasn, and ameliorated Ath-induced gut microbiota dysbiosis. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that consuming a large quantity and variety of F&Vs causally attenuates diet-induced atherosclerosis and hepatic steatosis in mice. These effects of F&Vs are associated with, and may be mediated through, improved atherogenic dyslipidemia, alleviated gut dysbiosis, and suppressed inflammation.

Schinus terebinthifolius fruits intake ameliorates metabolic disorders, inflammation, oxidative stress, and related vascular dysfunction, in atherogenic diet-induced obese rats. Insight of their chemical characterization using HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE: Schinus terebinthifolius is traditionally used for its anti inflammatory capacity, and indicated as a cardioprotective agent, whereas, its preventive effect against atherogenic diet fed (AD) induced metabolic disorders and the underlying mechanisms has not yet been explored. AIM OF THE STUDY: This study was undertaken to investigate the ameliorative role of Schinus terebinthifolius fruits extract (STFE) against cardiovascular problem, oxidative and inflammatory status related to obesity in rats fed an atherogenic diet. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The metabolites profile in STFE was evaluated using HPLC-DAD-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS analysis. In Wistar rats, atherogenic diet was added for 9 weeks to induce lipid accumulation simultaneously with STFE (50 mg/kg b. w) or saline treatment. Biochemical, oxidant, and inflammatory criteria together with hepatic and arterial integrity examination were assessed. RESULTS: A total of thirty three metabolites were identified using HPLC-DAD-ESI-QTOF-MS, among them masazino-flavanone was the major compound (2645.50 µg/g DW). The results indicated that STFE supplementation during 9 weeks (50 mg/kg b. w.) significantly attenuated the altered lipid profile by decreasing the levels of TC, TG, LDL-C and increasing the HDL-C content both in plasma and liver, when compared with the AD-group. The histological analysis using ORO staining revealed a decrease in the lipid droplet deposit in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes of STFE + AD group. The addition of STFE could improve the glycemic status of AD-treated rats by decreasing the glucose and insulin secretion, and ameliorating the hepatic glycogen synthesis. The harmful effects of atherogenic diet on hepatic oxidative stress indicators (MDA, PC, GSH, SOD, CAT, and GPx), biochemical markers (AST, ALT, LDH and ALP), and liver function, were found to be decreased by the addition of STFE. Moreover, the reduction of inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6 and TNF-α), associated to alleviating of aortic oxidative stress and integrity, highlighted the positive anti-atherogenic effect of STFE. CONCLUSION: Overall, the pleiotropic protective effect observed with S. terebinthifolius fruits might be related to the presence of various bioactive compounds.

Expression of chemokines in macrophage polarization and downregulation of NFκB in aorta allow macrophage polarization by diosgenin in atherosclerosis.

M1 macrophages serve one edge as proinflammatory and M2 macrophages serve the other edge as an anti-inflammatory macrophage. It appears that a related "switch" in macrophage morphology may also happen in the course of atherosclerosis, which has not yet been elucidated. An atherogenic diet (AD) was given to rats, and induction of macrophage differentiation and the nuclear localization of nuclear factor-kappa B (NFκB) were investigated by Western blot and immunofluorescence. Chemokines were analyzed using an antibody array with 32 target proteins. M2 macrophage transformation was confirmed in diosgenin-treated aorta by immunofluorescence and was validated in vitro using THP-1 cells. MAC387 (macrophage marker) and NFκBp65 (inflammatory hub) were upregulated in oxidatively-modified low-density lipoprotein (OxyLDL) and AD-induced condition. Macrophage differentiation, which induced the formation of inflammatory mediators, was not significantly suppressed by the inhibition of NFκB using dexamethasone. M1 macrophage polarization was identified in OxyLDL-induced monocytes, which are proinflammatory in nature, whereas M2 macrophage polarization was noticed in diosgenin-treated monocytes, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. M1-and M2-specific chemokines were analyzed using chemokine antibody array. Furthermore, the expression of proinflammatory macrophage (M1) was noticed in AD-induced aorta and anti-inflammatory macrophage (M2) was observed in diosgenin-treated aorta. This is the first report where, unifying the mechanism of diosgenin as aan nti-atherosclerotic and the expression of M1 and M2 specific chemokines is shown by downregulating NFκB and not by preventing the differentiation of monocyte into a macrophage, but by allowing macrophage to differentiate into M2, which aids in preventing the atherosclerotic progression.

Can Carob-Fruit-Extract-Enriched Meat Improve the Lipoprotein Profile, VLDL-Oxidation, and LDL Receptor Levels Induced by an Atherogenic Diet in STZ-NAD-Diabetic Rats?

Carob fruit extract (CFE) has shown remarkable in vitro antioxidant properties and reduces postprandial hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in healthy animals. Development of functional meat products that contain bioactive components are presented as a great nutritional strategy. Until now, the effect of the consumption of restructured meat enriched with CFE in a murine model of diabetes has not been investigated. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect on glycemia, lipemia, lipoprotein profile, Ldlr, arylesterase (AE), and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) and liver oxidation in streptozotocin-nicotinamide (STZ-NAD) growing Wistar diabetic rats fed restructured meat in the frame of a high cholesterol/high saturated-fat diet. In the present study, three groups (D, ED and DE) were fed cholesterol-enriched (1.4% cholesterol and 0.2% cholic acid) and high saturated-fat diets (50% of total energy from fats and 20.4% from saturated fatty acids). Rats were subjected to a STZ-NAD administration at the 3rd week. Group D did not receive CFE, while ED and DE rat groups received CFE before and after the diabetic induction, respectively. After eight weeks, D rats showed hyperglycemia and hypercholesterolemia, an increased amount cholesterol-enriched VLDL (ß-VLDL), IDL and LDL particles and triglyceride-enriched HDL. ED and DE partially blocked the hypercholesterolemic induction with respect to D group (p < 0.001) and improved glycemia, cholesterol levels, lipoprotein profile, Ldlr, plasma AE activity and liver oxidation (p < 0.001). Fecal fat, moisture and excretion were higher while dietary digestibility was lower in ED and DE vs. D counterparts (p < 0.001). In conclusion, CFE-enriched meat shows, for the first time, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects in STZ-NAD animals fed high cholesterol/high saturated-fat diets. Likewise, it manages to reverse possible diabetes lipoprotein alterations if CFE-enriched meat is consumed before pathology development or improves said modifications if Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus is already established.

Antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activity of Costus speciosus against atherogenic diet-induced hyperlipidemia in rabbits.

OBJECTIVE: An extract of Costus speciosus (CSE), a herb widely used in folk medicine, was evaluated for its antioxidant, antihyperlipidemic and ameliorating effects on histopathological changes in atherogenic rabbits. METHODS: Twenty-four male rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were divided into 4 groups. Three groups were fed a diet containing 3% saturated fat and 1.3% cholesterol for 40 d. One of these was sacrificed on the 40th day and was called the pathogenic (P) group; the other two groups received treatment for another 30 d as follows: one received 0.8 g/(kg·d) of CSE and the other was given 0.01 g/(kg·d) of simvastatin. The normal group was sacrificed on the 70th day and used as a control. RESULTS: CSE showed radical-scavenging ability. Administration of CSE for a 30-day period resulted in a significant decrease in total cholesterol, triacylglycerol, low-density lipoprotein and aspartate aminotransferase compared to the P group, while levels of hemoglobin, packed corpuscular volume and red blood cells were elevated. With respect to studies performed on the heart, a decrease in malondialdehyde and an increase in reduced glutathione were noted. Total protein increased in the liver, heart and aorta after treatment with CSE and also a marked improvement in histopathological parameters was demonstrated. CONCLUSION: The present findings indicate that the C. speciosus rhizome possesses antiatherogenic and antioxidant properties which may provide protective effects against oxidative stress in atherosclerotic rabbits.

Sesame Oil and an Aqueous Extract Derived from Sesame Oil Enhance Regression of Preexisting Atherosclerotic Lesions in Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor Knockout Mice.

Diet and exercise are recommended both as a prophylactic and as a therapeutic approach for patients with established coronary artery disease. We previously reported that sesame oil (SESO) and its aqueous extract (SOAE) showed antiatherosclerotic and anti-inflammatory properties. We also observed that genes involved in reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) might be activated. In this study, we tested whether post-treatment with SESO or SOAE would reduce preexisting atherosclerosis by enhancing RCT. Female low-density lipoprotein receptor knockout (LDL-R-/-) mice were fed an atherogenic diet for 3 months, followed by post-treatment with either control or SESO or SOAE for 1 month. Plasma lipids and atherosclerotic lesions were quantified at the end of the study. RNA was extracted from the aortic tissues and used for real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis. SESO and SOAE post-treatment significantly reduced atherosclerotic lesions in LDL-R-/- mice compared to controls. No significant change in plasma cholesterol, triglyceride, or LDL cholesterol levels was observed. Aortic gene analysis showed that the SESO/SOAE post-treatment reduced inflammatory gene expression and induced genes involved in cholesterol metabolism and RCT. This is the first study that demonstrates that post-treatment with SESO and SOAE could be an effective treatment for preexisting atherosclerosis and inflammation. The study also may suggest that reducing inflammation might be conducive to an accelerated regression of lesions.

The suppressive effect of the three-herb extract mixture on vascular and liver inflammation in atherogenic diet with high fructose-fed mice.

CONTEXT: Cynanchum wilfordii (Maximowicz) Hemsley (Apocynaceae), Arctium lappa L. var. rubescens Frivald (Asteraceae) and Dioscorea opposite Thunb (Dioscoreaceae) root extracts have been widely used as an alternative for intervening obesity. OBJECTIVES: The synergistic effect of three-herb mixture of C. wilfordii, A. lappa and D. opposita was determined on aortic and liver inflammatory responses. MATERIALS AND METHODS: CWE, ALE and DOE were prepared from the root of C. wilfordii, A. lappa and D. opposite by 70% ethanol extraction, respectively. CADE was prepared using a powder mixture of 2 CWE:1 ALE:1 DOE. C57BL/6 mice were fed an atherogenic diet combined with 10% fructose (ATHFR) in the presence of 200 mg/kg/day CWE, ALE, DOE or CADE for 8 weeks (each group, n = 6). Biochemical profiles, protein expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) on the aorta and liver were determined. RESULTS: CADE could significantly suppress the protein expression of VCAM-1 in both the aorta and liver (80% reduction) compared to ATHFR-fed mice. Impairment of liver function was significantly ameliorated by CADE supplement, as determined by GOT (60% reduction) and GPT (51% reduction) levels. CONCLUSIONS: CADE should be considered when developing medications to suppress the vascular and liver inflammatory responses for individuals who are either non-responsive or resistant to lipid-lowering drugs.

The role of artichoke leaf tincture (Cynara scolymus) in the suppression of DNA damage and atherosclerosis in rats fed an atherogenic diet.

CONTEXT: Polyphenols and flavonoids in artichoke leaf tincture (ALT) protect cells against oxidative damage. OBJECTIVES: We examined ALT effects on deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage and lipid profiles in rat plasma and gene expression in rat aorta [haemeoxygenase-1 (HO1), haemeoxygenase-2 (HO2), NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX-4), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) and nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2)]. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eighteen male Wistar albino rats were divided into three groups (n = 6/group): The control group (CG) was fed with standard pellet chow for 11 weeks; the AD group was fed for a similar period of time with pellet chow supplemented with 2% cholesterol, 3% sunflower oil and 1% sodium cholate. The ADA group was fed with pellet chow (for 1 week), the atherogenic diet (see above) for the following 4 weeks and then with ALT (0.1 mL/kg body weight) and atherogenic diet for 6 weeks. According to HPLC analysis, the isolated main compounds in ALT were chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, isoquercitrin and rutin. RESULTS: Normalized HO-1 [0.11 (0.04-0.24)] and MCP-1 [0.29 (0.21-0.47)] mRNA levels and DNA scores [12.50 (4.50-36.50)] were significantly lower in the ADA group than in the AD group [0.84 (0.35-2.51)], p = 0.021 for HO-1 [0.85 (0.61-3.45)], p = 0.047 for MCP-1 and [176.5 (66.50-221.25)], p = 0.020 for DNA scores. HO-1 mRNA was lower in the ADA group than in the CG group [0.30 (0.21-0.71), p = 0.049]. CONCLUSIONS: Supplementation with ALT limited the effects of the atherogenic diet through reduced MCP-1 expression, thereby preventing oxidative damage.

Dietary supplementation of defatted kenaf (Hibiscus cannabinus L.) seed meal and its phenolics-saponins rich extract effectively attenuates diet-induced hypercholesterolemia in rats.

Kenaf is one of the important commercial fiber crops worldwide and defatted kenaf seed meal (DKSM) is a secondary by-product from the kenaf industry. Thus, efforts to turn this low-cost agricultural waste into value-added functional food ingredients will definitely bring advantageous impacts to the community health, environment and economy. The present study was aimed to investigate the cardioprotective properties of DKSM and its phenolics-saponins rich extract (PSRE) in diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rat model. Hypercholesterolemia was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats via atherogenic diet feeding and dietary interventions were conducted by incorporating DKSM (15% and 30%) and equivalent levels of PSRE (2.3% and 4.6%, respectively, equivalent to the total content of phenolics and saponins in DKSM groups) into the atherogenic diets. After 10 weeks of DKSM and PSRE supplementation, the hepatosomatic index, hepatosteatosis, serum lipid profile, Castelli risk indexes as well as hepatic and renal functions of hypercholesterolemic rats were significantly improved (p < 0.05). Besides, the levels of hepatic Hmgcr and serum Pcsk9 were lowered, along with transcriptional upregulations of hepatic Cyp7a1, Abca1, Lcat, ApoA2 and ApoE (p < 0.05). The gene expression of hepatic Ldlr was marginally enhanced by DKSM supplementation (p > 0.05), but superiorly upregulated by PSRE (p < 0.05). The combined results showed that hypercholesterolemia and the atherogenic risk in rats were effectively attenuated by DKSM and PSRE supplementation, possibly via modulations of multiple vital processes in hepatic cholesterol metabolism. Furthermore, phenolics and saponins may be the bioactives conferring DKSM and PSRE with their anti-hypercholesterolemic properties. In conclusion, DKSM and PSRE are prospective cardioprotective functional food ingredients for hypercholesterolemic individuals.

Glucomannan or Glucomannan Plus Spirulina-Enriched Squid-Surimi Diets Reduce Histological Damage to Liver and Heart in Zucker fa/fa Rats Fed a Cholesterol-Enriched and Non-Cholesterol-Enriched Atherogenic Diet.

Glucomannan-enriched squid surimi improves cholesterolemia and liver antioxidant status. The effect of squid surimi enriched with glucomannan or glucomannan plus spirulina on liver and heart structures and cell damage markers was tested in fa/fa rats fed highly saturated-hyper-energetic diets. Animals were fed 70% AIN-93M rodent diet plus six versions of 30% squid surimi for 7 weeks: control (C), glucomannan (G), and glucomannan plus spirulina (GS). The cholesterol-control (HC), cholesterol-glucomannan (HG), and cholesterol-glucomannan plus spirulina (HGS) groups were given similar diets that were enriched with 2% cholesterol and 0.4% cholic acid. G and GS diets versus C diet significantly inhibited weight gain and lowered plasma alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, liver steatosis, lipogranulomas, and total inflammation and alteration scores. The hypercholesterolemic agent significantly increased the harmful effects of the C diet. Liver weight, the hepatosomatic index, all damage markers, and total histological scoring rose for HC versus C (at least P < .05). The addition of glucomannan (HG vs. HC) improved these biomarkers, and non-additional effects from spirulina were observed except for the total liver alteration score. In conclusion, glucomannan and glucomannan plus spirulina blocked the highly saturated-hyper-energetic diet negative effects both with and without added cholesterol. Results suggest the usefulness of including these functional ingredients in fish products.

Dislipidemia aterogénica en latino américa: prevalencia, causas y tratamiento / Atherogenic dyslipidemia in Latin America: prevalence, causes and treatment

En las guías clínicas actuales, la dislipidemia aterogénica (DA) es una entidad no muy atendida. Debido a las frecuentes alteraciones en los lípidos asociados a la DA en Latino América (LA). Métodos: organizamos un grupo de expertos denominado Academia Latino Americana para el estudio de los Lípidos (ALALIP) para así generar un documento con análisis de su prevalencia y recomendaciones terapéuticas prácticas. Se utilizó la metodología Delphi modificada, con una revisión integral de la literatura y énfasis en las publicaciones con implicaciones para LA. Subsecuentemente, desarrollamos preguntas claves para ser discutidas. Resultados: En Latinoamérica (LA) no existe un estudio global sobre los factores de riesgo que representan a la totalidad de la población. El análisis sistemático de las encuestas nacionales de salud y de los estudios sistemáticos de cohorte muestran consistentemente una alta prevalencia de las anormalidades lipídicas que definen la DA. La concentración baja del colesterol unido a las lipoproteínas de alta densidad (C-HDL) varía entre 34,1% a 53,3% y la de triglicéridos (TG) elevados del 25,5% al 31,2%, con mayor prevalencia entre los hombres. La DA bien puede ser tratada con los cambios del estilo de vida (CTEV) como ncremento en laactividad física, dieta baja en carbohidratos y alta en ácidos grasos poliinsaturados, tales como los ácidos grasos omega-3 como intervención primaria. De ser necesario, esta estrategia sera suplementada con terapia farmacológica como la monoterapia con estatinas o la combinación de fibratos/ácidos grasos omega-3. Conclusiones: Las anormalidades lipídicas que definen la DA tienen una elevada prevalencia en LA; su interacción con un estilo de vida no saludable, herencia y cambios epigenéticos están ligados a sus posibles causas. La DA es una causa importante de riesgo cardiovascular residual (RCVR) que debe ser diagnosticada y tratada. Es importante y necesario diseñar un estudio global de factores de riesgo en LA para conocer la real prevalencia de la DA(AU)

In the current clinical guidelines, atherogenic Med Interna (Caracas) 2017; 33 (3): 121 - 139 Dislipidemia Aterogénica en Latino América: Prevalencia, causas y tratamiento Carlos I. Ponte-N, Jesús E. Isea-Pérez, Alberto J. Lorenzatti, Patricio López-Jaramillo, Fernando Stuardo Wyss-Q, Xavier Pintó, Fernando Lanas, Josefina Medina, Livia T. Machado-H, Mónica Acevedo, Paola Varleta Alfonso Bryce, Carlos Carrera, Carlos Ernesto Peñaherrera, José Ramón Gómez-M, Alfredo Lozada, Alonso Merchan-V, Daniel Piskorz, Enrique Morales, María Paniagua, Félix Medina-Palomino, Raúl Alejandro Villar-M, Leonardo Cobos, Enrique Gómez-Álvares, Rodrigo Alonso, Juan Colan, Julio Chirinos, Jofre Lara, Vladimir Ullauri, Ildefonso Arocha Documento de la posición de expertos de la Academia Latino Americana para el estudio de los Lípidos (ALALIP) y avalado por la Sociedad Interamericana de Cardiología (SIAC), Sociedad Sur Americana de Cardiología (SSC), el Colegio Panamericano de Endotelio (CPAE) y la Sociedad Internacional de Aterosclerosis (IAS). Publicado en conjunto con las Revistas de la Sociedad Venezolana de Medicina Interna y de la Sociedad Venezolana de ndocrinología y Metabolismo. dyslipidemia (AD) is a poorly recognized entity. Due to the frequent lipid alterations associated with AD in Latin America (LA), we organized a group of experts named Latin American Academy for the study of Lipids (ALALIP), to generate a document to analize it´s prevalence and to offer practical recommendations. Methodology: Using the Delphi methodology, we conducted a comprehensive literature review, with emphasis on those publications with implications for LA. Subsequently we developed key questions to be discussed. Results: In LA There is no a global study on risk factors that represent the entire population. The systematic analysis of national health surveys and regional cohort studies showed a consistent high prevalence of the lipid abnormalities that define AD. Low high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ranges from 34.1% to 53.3% and elevated triglycerides (TG) from 25.5% to 31.2% more prevalent in men. There are multiple causes: high consumption of foods with a high caloric density, cholesterol and trans fats, sedentary lifestyle and epigenetic changes. AD must be well treated with therapeutic changes in lifestyle with increase in physical activities, regular exercise and a diet with a low proportion of carbohydrates and rich in poliunsatured fatty acid, such as omega-3 fatty acids as primary intervention. If needed, this strategy must be supplemented with pharmacological therapies such as monotherapy with statins or a combination of fibrates plus omega-3. fatty acid. conclusions: Lipid abnormalities that define AD have a high prevalence in LA; the interaction between non-healthy lifestyle, inheritance and epigenetic changes, possibly are the cause. AD is an important cause of cardiovascular residual risk (CVRR), that must be diagnosed and treated It is important and necesary to design a global study of risk factors in LA to know the true prevalence of AD(AU)

Hypolipidemic and Antioxidative Effects of Glossogyne tenuifolia in Hamsters Fed an Atherogenic Diet.

Glossogyne tenuifolia (GT) Cassini is a special herbal tea in the Penghu Islands, Taiwan, and has a long history of being used as an antipyretic, detoxifying, and anti-inflammatory remedy in folk medicine among local residents. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of hot water extracts from GT on oxidative stress and lipid metabolism in animals. Five- to 6-week-old male Syrian hamsters were divided into four groups (n = 14) for different treatments, that is: control group (C), high-fat/cholesterol (HF) group, HF diet containing 0.5% (GT0.5) and 1.5% (GT1.5) GT extracts for 4 weeks. Hamsters fed with 0.5% GT powder as well as 1.5% GT powder exhibited reduced serum total cholesterol (TC), conjugated diene of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and increased serum antioxidant capacity, but 1.5% GT powder was more potent at lowering serum LDL cholesterol and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance concentrations than 0.5% GT. GT extracts significantly lowered liver triacylglycerol (TG) concentration by diminishing activities of fatty acid synthase (FAS) and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G-6-PDH). In addition, fecal excretion of cholesterol and bile acids were increased in GT extract groups. In conclusion, GT extracts increase the antioxidative capacity, decrease serum TC, inhibit the activities of FAS and G-6-PDH, and further reduce liver TG accumulation in hamster fed on atherogenic diets.

Efficacy of phytosterols and fish-oil supplemented high-oleic-sunflower oil rich diets in hypercholesterolemic growing rats.

Phytosterols (P) and fish-oil (F) efficacy on high-oleic-sunflower oil (HOSO) diets were assessed in hypercholesterolemic growing rats. Controls (C) received a standard diet for 8 weeks; experimental rats were fed an atherogenic diet (AT) for 3 weeks, thereafter were divided into four groups fed for 5 weeks a monounsaturated fatty acid diet (MUFA) containing either: extra virgin olive oil (OO), HOSO or HOSO supplemented with P or F. The diets did not alter body weight or growth. HOSO-P and HOSO-F rats showed reduced total cholesterol (T-chol), non-high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (non-HDL-chol) and triglycerides and increased HDL-chol levels, comparably to the OO rats. Total body fat (%) was similar among all rats; but HOSO-F showed the lowest intestinal, epididymal and perirenal fat. However, bone mineral content and density, and bone yield stress and modulus of elasticity were unchanged. Growing hypercholesterolemic rats fed HOSO with P or F improved serum lipids and fat distribution, but did not influence material bone quality.

Emu oil decreases atherogenic plaque formation in cafeteria diet-induced obese rats.

BACKGROUND: Atherosclerosis-induced coronary heart disease - caused by elevated levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and inflammation - is one of the most prevalent diseases. Monounsaturated fatty acids are reported to prevent atherosclerosis; emu oil is a rich source of monounsaturated fatty acid, and we hypothesize that emu oil supplementation could lower inflammation and prevent atherosclerosis in diet-induced obese (DIO) animals. Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups (n = 6), and fed with normal diet (chow pellet; ND), or with cafeteria diet (CD), or with CD along with emu oil supplementation at three different doses: ED1 (2 mL), ED2 (4 mL) and ED3 (8 mL) kg(-1) body weight (BW), respectively. RESULTS: After 12 weeks, the animals were sacrificed and serum was analysed for measuring lipid profile, C-reactive proteins, testosterone and luteinizing hormone. Histopathological studies were performed to observe atherogenic changes in thoracic aorta. Restoration of altered lipid and hormonal profiles, and inhibition of atherogenic changes in thoracic aorta, were observed with supplementation of emu oil, confirming its anti-atherosclerotic activity. CONCLUSION: The high content of oleic acid in emu oil could have orchestrated - either solely or in combination with linoleic and linolenic acids - causing the upregulation of testosterone biosynthesis and inhibition of atheromatous plaque formation in diet-induced obese animals. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry.

Silver fir (Abies alba) trunk extract protects guinea pig arteries from impaired functional responses and morphology due to an atherogenic diet.

BACKGROUND: Diet, rich in plant polyphenols prevents atherogenesis that manifests as reduced vascular relaxation and formation of plaques. HYPOTHESIS: Atherosclerosis could be reduced by the intake of silver fir (Abies alba) extract (SFTE), rich in polyphenols. STUDY DESIGN: Chronic, in vivo treatment animal study. METHODS: Guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) were fed for 8 weeks with one of the following three diets: atherogenic, basic or atherogenic + SFTE. After isolation, we measured the relaxation and contractile responses of the thoracic aorta. Additionally, we measured the area of fatty plaques on the aortic walls. RESULTS: Compared to the basic diet, the atherogenic diet decreased the ability of the aorta to relax by 63% (p < 0.001). The addition of SFTE to the atherogenic diet improved the aorta relaxation response compared to that of the atherogenic diet without SFTE (the decrease relative to the basic diet was 26%, p < 0.001). The aorta contractility did not differ between the groups. The SFTE group generated significantly fewer atherosclerotic plaques than did the atherogenic group. The areas of atherosclerotic plaques were 7.4, 0.3 and 1.6% in the aortas of guinea pigs receiving atherogenic, basic or atherogenic + SFTE diets, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: In a guinea pig model, prolonged treatment with antioxidative polyphenol-rich SFTE prevents aortic functional and morphological changes caused by an atherogenic diet.

Watermelon consumption improves inflammation and antioxidant capacity in rats fed an atherogenic diet.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the United States. Watermelon, rich in antioxidants and other bioactive components, may be a viable method to improve CVD risk factors through reduced oxidative stress. The purpose of the study was to determine the effects of watermelon powder consumption on lipid profiles, antioxidant capacity, and inflammation in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-treated rats fed an atherogenic diet. We hypothesized that watermelon would increase antioxidant capacity and reduce blood lipids and inflammation through modulation of related gene expression. Forty male-weanling (21 days old) Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 4 groups (10 per group, total N = 40) in a 2 diets (control or 0.33% watermelon) × 2 treatments (with or without DSS) factorial design using an atherogenic diet. Watermelon-fed groups exhibited significantly lower serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P< .05). C-reactive protein levels were significantly lower in watermelon-fed rats than the control (P= .001). In addition, oxidative stress as measured by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances was significantly lower in watermelon groups (P= .001). Total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities were greater in watermelon groups (P< .05). Aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and lactate dehydrogenase were significantly lower in DSS-treated rats when watermelon was consumed (P< .05). Fatty acid synthase, 3-hydroxy-3methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase, sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1, sterol regulatory element-binding protein 2, and cyclooxygenase-2 gene expression was significantly downregulated in the watermelon group without DSS (P< .05). These findings indicate that watermelon improves risk factors for CVD in rats through better lipid profiles, lower inflammation, and greater antioxidant capacity by altering gene expression for lipid metabolism.

Effect of geraniol, a plant derived monoterpene on lipids and lipid metabolizing enzymes in experimental hyperlipidemic hamsters.

Hyperlipidemia is a major, modifiable risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. In the present study, we have focused on the effect of different doses of geraniol (GOH) on the lipid profile and lipid metabolizing enzymes in atherogenic diet (AD) fed hamsters. Male Syrian hamsters were grouped into seven: group 1 were control animals; group 2 were animals fed GOH alone (200 mg/kg b.w); group 3 were animals fed AD (10 % coconut oil, 0.25 % cholesterol, and 0.25 % cholic acid); group 4 were animals fed AD + corn oil (2.5 ml/kg b.w); and groups 5, 6, and 7 were fed AD as in group 3 + different doses of GOH (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg b.w), respectively, for 12 weeks. At the end of the experimental period, animals were sacrificed by cervical dislocation and various assays were performed in the plasma and tissues. The AD hamsters showed marked changes in lipid profile and lipid metabolizing enzymes. However, supplementation with GOH counteracted the hyperlipidemia by inhibiting HMG CoA reductase and suppressing lipogenesis. The antihyperlipidemic efficacy of GOH was found to be effective at the dose of 100 mg/kg b.w. This study illustrates that GOH is effective in lowering the risk of hyperlipidemia in AD fed hamsters.

Berberine decreases cholesterol levels in rats through multiple mechanisms, including inhibition of cholesterol absorption.

OBJECTIVE: The objective was to determine the mechanisms of action of berberine (BBR) on cholesterol homeostasis using in vivo and in vitro models. METHODS: Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed the AIN-93G diet (normal control) or modified AIN-93G diet containing 28% fat, 2% cholesterol and 0.5% cholic acid with treatment of 0 (atherogenic control), 50, 100, and 150 mg/kg·d of BBR, respectively by gavaging in water for 8 weeks. Cholesterol absorption rate was measured with the dual stable isotope ratio method, and plasma lipids were determined using the enzymatic methods. Gene and protein expressions of Acyl-coenzyme A:cholesterol acyltransferase-2 were analyzed in vivo and in vitro. Cholesterol micellarization, uptake and permeability were determined in vitro. RESULTS: Rats on the atherogenic diet showed significantly hypercholesterolemic characteristics compared to normal control rats. Treatment with BBR in rats on the atherogenic diet reduced plasma total cholesterol and nonHDL cholesterol levels by 29%-33% and 31%-41%, respectively, with no significant differences being observed among the three doses. The fractional dietary cholesterol absorption rate was decreased by 40%-51%. Rats fed the atherogenic diet showed lower plasma triacylglycerol levels, and no changes were observed after the BBR treatment. BBR interfered with cholesterol micellarization, decreased cholesterol uptake by Caco-2 cells and permeability through Caco-2 monolayer. BBR also inhibited the gene and protein expressions of acyl-coenzyme A cholesterol acyltransferease-2 in the small intestine and Caco-2 cells. CONCLUSION: BBR lowered blood cholesterol levels at least in part through inhibiting the intestinal absorption and further by interfering with intraluminal cholesterol micellarization and decreasing enterocyte cholesterol uptake and secretion.

Antiobesity and vasoprotective effects of resveratrol in apoE-deficient mice.

This study was performed to investigate the hypolipidemic, antiobese, and antiatherogenic effects of resveratrol in apoE-deficient mice fed an atherogenic diet (20% fat and 1% cholesterol). These animals were fed an atherogenic diet containing 0.02% lovastatin (w/w) or 0.02% resveratrol (w/w) for 12 weeks. Resveratrol and lovastatin supplementation significantly reduced either the body weight or epididymal fat weight without altering the food intake and food efficiency ratio. Resveratrol significantly decreased the plasma total cholesterol (total-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) concentrations, apoB/apoA-I ratio, hepatic cholesterol, and triglyceride (TG) contents, whereas significantly it increased the plasma HDL-C concentration compared with the control and lovastatin groups. Plasma and hepatic TG and plasma apoB levels were significantly lower in both the lovastatin and resveratrol groups than in the control group without altering the plasma apoA-I concentration. Both resveratrol and lovastatin significantly decreased hepatic fatty acid and TG synthesis, whereas they increased fatty acid oxidation (ß-oxidation) except for the carnitine palmitoyltransferase activity compared with the control group. However, there was no difference in hepatic 3-hydroxyl-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase activity among the groups, although hepatic acyl-CoA: cholesterol acyltransferase activity was significantly lower in the lovastatin groups than in the control group. In epididymal adipose tissue, resveratrol supplementation led to an increase in ß-oxidation and decrease in TG synthesis, compared with the control group. Tissue morphology revealed that there were dramatic decreases in hepatic lipid droplets and aortic fatty streaks by resveratrol and lovastatin supplementation. This study demonstrates that resveratrol exerts not only antiobesity and hypolipidemic effects, but also protective effects for the liver and aorta through the modulation of lipid metabolism in both the liver and white adipose tissues.