scholarly journals A Novel Anti-Inflammatory Role of Omega-3 PUFAs in Prevention and Treatment of Atherosclerosis and Vascular Cognitive Impairment and Dementia

Nutrients ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (10) ◽  
pp. 2279 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marialaura Simonetto ◽  
Marco Infante ◽  
Ralph L. Sacco ◽  
Tatjana Rundek ◽  
David Della-Morte

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory chronic disease affecting arterial vessels and leading to vascular diseases, such as stroke and myocardial infarction. The relationship between atherosclerosis and risk of neurodegeneration has been established, in particular with vascular cognitive impairment and dementia (VCID). Systemic atherosclerosis increases the risk of VCID by inducing cerebral infarction, or through systemic or local inflammatory factors that underlie both atherosclerosis and cognition. Omega-3 and omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are involved in inflammatory processes, but with opposite roles. Specifically, omega-3 PUFAs exert anti-inflammatory properties by competing with omega-6 PUFAs and displacing arachidonic acid in membrane phospholipids, decreasing the production of pro-inflammatory eicosanoids. Experimental studies and some clinical trials have demonstrated that omega-3 PUFA supplementation may reduce the risk of different phenotypes of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. This review describes the link between atherosclerosis, VCID and inflammation, as well as how omega-3 PUFA supplementation may be useful to prevent and treat inflammatory-related diseases.

Beverages ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 54
Author(s):  
Donal Moran ◽  
Mary Fleming ◽  
Eimear Daly ◽  
Natasha Gaughan ◽  
Ioannis Zabetakis ◽  
...  

Alcoholic beverages like apple cider are considered functional beverages with several health benefits, when consumed in moderation, which are mainly attributed to their microbiota and the plethora of their bioactive compounds. Among them, bio-functional polar lipids (PL) have recently been found in apple cider, which despite low quantities, have exhibited strong anti-inflammatory and anti-platelet properties, while fermentation seems to affect the functionality of apple cider’s PL bioactives. The aim of the present study was to elaborate yeast strains isolated from the complex mixtures of apple surface and must yeasts for evaluating their effects on the anti-platelet functional properties of PL bioactives from their final fermented apple cider products. First, bio-functional PL were extracted and separated from the biomass of the different isolated apple surface/must yeast strains, and were further assessed for their anti-platelet potency against human platelet aggregation induced by the potent inflammatory and thrombotic mediator platelet-activating factor (PAF), or by a classic platelet agonist like adenosine diphopshate (ADP). Novel functional apple ciders were then produced from the fermentation of apple juice by elaborating the most bioactive and resilient yeast strains isolated from the apple must with optimum fermentation properties. PL bioactives extracted from these novel apple cider products were also further assessed for their anti-platelet properties against both the PAF and ADP pathways of human platelet aggregation. These novel cider products were found to contain PL bioactives with lower IC50 values (~40 μg) and thus increased anti-platelet potency against platelet aggregation induced by PAF and ADP. GC-MS analysis of the PL bioactives extracted from these novel apple ciders showed that apple cider PL bioactives are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), such as the omega-6 linoleic acid (LA) and the omega-3 alpha linolenic acid (ALA), with favorably lower levels for their omega-6/omega-3 PUFA ratio, which further support the observed strong anti-platelet properties putative anti-inflammatory potency for the apple cider PL bioactives. However, further studies are needed in order to elucidate and fully characterize the apple yeast strains that can be utilized for increasing the anti-inflammatory, anti-platelet and cardioprotective functional properties of their fermented apple cider products.


Nutrients ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 325 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pinelopi S. Stavrinou ◽  
Eleni Andreou ◽  
George Aphamis ◽  
Marios Pantzaris ◽  
Melina Ioannou ◽  
...  

The aim of the present study was to examine the effects of a high-dose omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids supplementation, in combination with antioxidant vitamins, on cognitive function and functional capacity of older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), over a 6-month period in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Forty-six older adults with MCI (age: 78.8 ± 7.3 years) were randomized 1:1 to receive either a 20 mL dose of a formula containing a mixture of omega-3 (810 mg Eicosapentaenoic acid and 4140 mg Docosahexaenoic acid) and omega-6 fatty acids (1800 mg gamma-Linolenic acid and 3150 mg Linoleic acid) (1:1 w/w), with 0.6 mg vitamin A, vitamin E (22 mg) plus pure γ-tocopherol (760 mg), or 20 mL placebo containing olive oil. Participants completed assessments of cognitive function, functional capacity, body composition and various aspects of quality of life at baseline and following three and six months of supplementation. Thirty-six participants completed the study (eighteen from each group). A significant interaction between supplementation and time was found on cognitive function (Addenbrooke’s Cognitive Examination -Revised (ACE-R), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Stroop Color and Word Test (STROOP) color test; p < 0.001, p = 0.011 and p = 0.037, respectively), functional capacity (6-min walk test and sit-to-stand-60; p = 0.028 and p = 0.032, respectively), fatigue (p < 0.001), physical health (p = 0.007), and daily sleepiness (p = 0.007)—showing a favorable improvement for the participants receiving the supplement. The results indicate that this nutritional modality could be promising for reducing cognitive and functional decline in the elderly with MCI.


Author(s):  
Bharat Kwatra ◽  
Harsimran Kaur ◽  
Joydip Majumdar ◽  
Mahek Shah ◽  
Mansi Upadhyaya ◽  
...  

This article is an examination of the Analeptic Applications of Omega-3. The scientific development and subsequent clinical applications of Omega-3 in Healthcare continue to influence researchers all over the globe today. This article examines the research done and published by researchers and scientists. Consideration of current trends and data in scientific queries and demonstrates further aspects of the applications of Omega-3 on various health backgrounds, including. Cardiovascular Health: The study addresses the comparison of Omega-3 and Omega-6 in cardiovascular diseases. Higher intake of dietary Omega-3 helps activation, inhibition, and alteration of metabolic and signaling pathways which is associated with better cardiovascular health, while Omega-6 decreases the risk of coronary heart diseases and cardiovascular disease mortality. Immunology: Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids (PUFAs) have been found to show an anti-inflammatory effect in the body by downregulating the activation of various immune cells. They regulate immunological functions via eicosanoids and resolvins which are anti-inflammatory. External supplementation can reduce chronic and acute inflammation as well as reduce the chances of graft rejection. The regulatory effect is shown by modifying gene expression and/or signal transduction in human cells. They are also involved in altering the membrane composition of Fatty Acids(FA) and as a result, they affect the lipid raft structure and also membrane trafficking. Joint Health: The study shows the effects of omega-3 and other fatty acid consumption in Rheumatoid Arthritis(RA), bone marrow lesions, and knee cartilage lesions. It notes the interrelations between synovitis, plasma levels of Omega-3 and Omega-6 PUFAs in OsteoArthritis (OA) patients along with risk factors for OA, which could help consider liable treatments for improvement of OA. The study highlights the importance of the Omega-6:Omega-3 PUFA ratio and clinical and functional outcome measures which can help us in better understanding the role of PUFAs and possible treatments for people with knee osteoarthritis while showing the effect of Omega-3 fatty acids on muscle health in RA. Skin Disorders: Fish oils rich in PUFAs are reported to improve several inflammatory disorders, including rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. They have also been broadly reported as a potential supplement to ameliorate the severity of some skin disorders such as photoaging, skin cancer, allergy, dermatitis, cutaneous wounds, and melanogenesis. The significance of omega-3 in skin structure was proved by describing a syndrome caused by stringent fat reduction in the diet that leads to erythema with scaling, hair loss, itching, and increased water loss.


2021 ◽  
Vol 12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Yutaka Matsuoka ◽  
Katsunori Tsuji ◽  
Eisuke Ochi

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is one of the most frequently reported and disabling symptoms in cancer survivors. With its negative impact on the activities of daily living, work, social activities, and mood, CRF causes severe impairment of quality of life. A previous study showed that omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation unexpectedly reduced CRF compared with omega-3 PUFA supplementation and that omega-6 PUFA supplementation reduced pro-inflammatory serum markers in fatigued American breast cancer survivors. Meanwhile, a recent meta-analysis of individual patient data revealed significant benefits of exercise interventions on CRF. Recently, we completed our randomized controlled trial among early-stage Japanese breast cancer survivors, in which we examined the effect of baseline blood PUFA characteristics on change in CRF during the 12-week trial by exercise group and confirmed that increased Cancer Fatigue Scale (CFS) was associated with both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) (p = 0.06) and omega-3 index (p = 0.08) at baseline in all participants (n = 46, omega-6/omega-3 ratio = 6.79, SD = 1.90). On the contrary, DHA at baseline was positively correlated with change in CRF (r = 0.40, p = 0.06) in the control group (n = 24, omega-6/omega-3 ratio = 7.0). Moreover, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) at baseline was positively correlated with leg strength (r = 0.39, p = 0.10) in the exercise group. In conclusion, blood PUFA balance might be associated with the effect of exercise on CRF. In addition, higher EPA in individuals who conducted exercise likely has a beneficial effect on muscle strength. Further investigation is needed to clarify the interaction between PUFAs and exercise for alleviating CRF.


Nutrients ◽  
2022 ◽  
Vol 14 (2) ◽  
pp. 266
Author(s):  
Akemi T. Wijayabahu ◽  
Angela M. Mickle ◽  
Volker Mai ◽  
Cynthia Garvan ◽  
Toni L. Glover ◽  
...  

Elevated inflammatory cytokines and chronic pain are associated with shorter leukocyte telomere length (LTL), a measure of cellular aging. Micronutrients, such as 25-hydroxyvitamin D (vitamin D) and omega 3, have anti-inflammatory properties. Little is known regarding the relationships between vitamin D, omega 6:3 ratio, LTL, inflammation, and chronic pain. We investigate associations between vitamin D, omega 6:3 ratio, LTL, and C-reactive protein (CRP) in people living with/without chronic pain overall and stratified by chronic pain status. A cross-sectional analysis of 402 individuals (63% women, 79.5% with chronic pain) was completed. Demographic and health information was collected. Chronic pain was assessed as pain experienced for at least three months. LTL was measured in genomic DNA isolated from blood leukocytes, and micronutrients and CRP were measured in serum samples. Data were analyzed with general linear regression. Although an association between the continuous micronutrients and LTL was not observed, a positive association between omega 6:3 ratio and CRP was detected. In individuals with chronic pain, based on clinical categories, significant associations between vitamin D, omega 6:3 ratio, and CRP were observed. Findings highlight the complex relationships between anti-inflammatory micronutrients, inflammation, cellular aging, and chronic pain.


2020 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 242-250
Author(s):  
Eliana R. Sanpaolo ◽  
Addolorata Corrado ◽  
Francesco P. Cantatore

Background: Besides the well-known positive effect on the reduction of the risk of cardiovascular diseases, in the latest decades growing evidence has accumulated on the beneficial effects of MD on various aspects of health outcomes. Nevertheless, data concerning the existence of a direct positive effect of MD, irrespective of its beneficial effect on body weight, in osteo-articular diseases, are still controversial. In osteo-articular diseases, a pro-inflammatory environment is highlighted, with an increased systemic levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Objective: Our objective is to investigate the effects of adherence to the Mediterranean diet and osteo-articular diseases. Conclusion: Many foods included in MD, have anti-inflammatory properties, due to the presence of nutrients, such as polyunsaturated (PUFA) and monounsaturated (MUFA) fats. The two types of polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega-3 and omega-6, have opposing effects on the inflammatory process. Omega-6 stimulates the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, while omega-3 fatty acids exert anti-inflammatory effects, including significant reductions in the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Some studies have shown that the dietary pattern of MD consumption has an important role in the prevention and development of inflammatory arthritis. Nevertheless, the possible influence of MD on chronic osteo-articular diseases is very limited, this review updates the main experimental and clinical evidences concerning the potential beneficial effects of the Mediterranean Diet on the most diffuse osteo-articular chronic and degenerative joint disease.


Stroke ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 51 (Suppl_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Ladonya Jackson ◽  
Wael Eldahshan ◽  
Guangkuo Dong ◽  
Selin Dumanli ◽  
Sarah Jamil ◽  
...  

Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) occurs in up to 48% of patients, for which there is no therapy. Although 70% of stroke victims present with comorbid diseases such as diabetes and hypertension, the inadequate integration of these comorbidities into experimental studies limited our understanding of the mechanisms involved in the development of PSCI. Based on our recent findings that 1) the increased prevalence of PSCI in male diabetic animals is linked to heightened chronic inflammation and 2) even delayed administration of compound 21 (C21), an angiotensin II Type 2 receptor agonist, effectively reduces PSCI by lowering inflammation in male animals, we hypothesized that a delayed administration of C21 would also lower chronic inflammation post-stroke in female animals. Methods: Diabetes was induced by a high fat diet (HFD) and low dose streptozotocin (STZ) combination. Rats were subjected to 1 h middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) or sham surgery. 3 days post-stroke, rats were administered C21 or vehicle in drinking water at a dose of 0.12 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks. The direct effect of C21 on microglia polarization was determined in mouse cells (C8B4) and the mature:pro BDNF ratio was evaluated through western blot. Samples from freshly harvested brains (B-D slice containing the prefrontal cortex through the hippocampus), and from cell culture were analyzed by flow cytometry. Results: Delayed administration of C21 starting 3 days post-stroke improved inflammation through modulation of the M1/M2 ratio. Cell culture results indicated that along with decreasing the M1/M2 ratio, it also increased the mature/pro-BDNF ratio. Conclusion: Delayed administration of C21 downregulates post-stroke inflammation in both male and female diabetic animals. This study emphasizes the importance of translational disease modeling and suggests that C21 may be a useful therapeutic option to lower inflammation and prevent PSCI in comorbid diseases.


Author(s):  
Aleksandra Kurczyńska ◽  
Kamila Ślusarczyk

Dementia is affecting growing numbers of people. Consequently, we are inclined toper ceive it as a crucial public health issue. Although cognitive impairment relates mainly to the elderly, it also significantly burdens their caretakers. However, the development of dementia is not inevitable. The cognitive functions are influenced by a wide range of factors, starting with those at the beginning of the prenatal period. The most important determinants of cognitive impairment involve genetic defects, diseases, intellectual activity, physical activity and nutrition. The role played by anti-inflammatory, low in sugar and highly-processed foods is emphasized. Particular importance is attributed to the omega-6 to omega-3 ratio, proper amounts of EPA and DHA and the lowest possible trans fatty acids intake. The controversial aspects include, among others, high-fat diet and alcohol consumption. The aim of this paper is to conduct an analysis of controversial aspects and nutritional strategies related to cognitive impairment prevention, based on available scientific data.


2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Amy Schweitzer ◽  
Bobbie Barron ◽  
Nga Barron ◽  
Meredith McCormack ◽  
Emily Brigham

Abstract Objectives Design a research diet that can be used to evaluate the relationship between nutrition and inflammation in a randomized, cross-over study in adults. Methods Dietary components were established for a Mediterranean menu and a Western menu based on a literature review. Three-day menu cycles were planned using the established components. Recipes were developed and adapted to meet menu goals at the 2000 calorie level. Proportional increments of menu items at the 2000 kcal level were used to establish 2500, 3000, and 3500 daily kcal levels to allow for varying energy requirements of participants. Meal plans were analyzed using Nutrition Data System for Research 2017 (NDSR). Healthy Eating Index was calculated using NDSR data. Results 100% of grains in the Mediterranean diet, none in the Western diet, were whole grains. Sweets and pastries were included in the Western diet daily but not the Intervention diet. Mean HEI score for the three-day menu cycle was 91.1 and 37.2 for the Mediterranean and Western diet, respectively. Preliminary results from three participants fed both diets for 6 days: All three participants consumed within 5% of the planned diet with the exception of one participant, who, during the Mediterranean diet cycle, consumed 64%. Mean HEI calculated for actual participant intake (n = 3, 6 days each) was: 89.7 Mediterranean, 36.4 Western Conclusions The Mediterranean diet had a 10-fold higher ratio of omega-6: omega-3 fat than Western. A three-day menu cycle was planned and met goals for an anti-inflammatory feeding study. Recruitment is ongoing to study the feasibility of providing a Mediterranean style and Western style diet to adults with asthma in Baltimore City. Mean HEI for the first three recruits was similar to that of the planned menu, indicating that lack of strict diet adherence did not alter HEI goal of the diet. Although diet design was successful, there were challenges to feeding study participants that must be considered in future feeding studies. Adequate freezer space is key in food preparation and delivery. Acceptability of foods in the Mediterranean diet may effect diet compliance in those who typically eat a Western diet. Dietary restrictions and allergies excluded potential study subjects. Funding Sources This publication was made possible by the Johns Hopkins Institute for Clinical and Translational Research (ICTR) which is funded in part by Grant Number UL1 TR001079 from the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and NIH Roadmap for Medical Research. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official view of the Johns Hopkins ICTR, NCATS or NIH. Supporting Tables, Images and/or Graphs  


Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document