Synergistic impact of -linolenic acid and -tocopherol on in vitro maturation and culture of buffalo oocytes

Abstract The objective of the current study was to investigate the synergistic impact of -Tocopherol and -Linolenic acid (100 µM) on IVM and IVC of Nili Ravi buffalo oocytes. Oocytes were obtained from the ovaries of slaughtered buffaloes within two hours after slaughter and brought to laboratory. Buffalo cumulus oocyte complexes were placed randomly in the five experimental groups included; GROUP 1: Maturation media (MM) + 100 µM ALA (control), GROUP 2: MM + 100 µM ALA + 50M -Tocopherol, GROUP 3: MM + 100 µM ALA + 100M -Tocopherol, GROUP 4: MM + 100 µM ALA + 200 M -Tocopherol and GROUP 5: MM + 100 µM ALA + 300 M -Tocopherol under an atmosphere of 5% CO2 in air at 38.5 °C for 22-24 h. Cumulus expansion and nuclear maturation status was determined (Experiment 1). In experiment 2, oocytes were matured as in experiment 1. The matured oocytes were then fertilized in Tyrodes Albumin Lactate Pyruvate (TALP) medium for about 20 h and cultured in synthetic oviductal fluid (SOF) medium to determine effect of -Linolenic acid (100 µM) and -Tocopherol in IVM medium on IVC of presumptive zygotes. To study the effect of -Linolenic acid (100 µM) in IVM media and increasing concentration of -tocopherol in the culture media on early embryo development (Experiment 3), the presumptive zygotes were randomly distributed into the five experimental groups with increasing concentration of -tocopherol in culture media. Higher percentage of MII stage oocytes in experiment 1(65.2±2.0), embryos at morula stage in experiment 2 (30.4±1.5) and experiment 3 (22.2±2.0) were obtained. However, overall results for cumulus cell expansion, maturation of oocyte to MII stage and subsequent embryo development among treatments remain statistically similar (P > 0.05). Supplementation of -tocopherol in maturation media having -Linolenic acid and/or in embryo culture media did not further enhance in vitro maturation of oocyte or embryo production.

Resumo O objetivo do presente estudo foi investigar o impacto sinérgico do -tocoferol e do ácido -linolênico (100 µM) na MIV e CIV de oócitos de búfala Nili Ravi. Os oócitos foram obtidos dos ovários de búfalos abatidos duas horas após o abate e levados ao laboratório. Complexos de oócitos cumulus de búfalo foram colocados aleatoriamente nos cinco grupos experimentais incluídos; GRUPO 1: Meio de maturação (MM) + 100 µM ALA (controle), GRUPO 2: MM + 100 µM ALA + 50 µM -tocoferol, GRUPO 3: MM + 100 µM ALA + 100 µM -tocoferol, GRUPO 4: MM + 100 µM ALA + 200 M -tocoferol e GRUPO 5: MM + 100 µM ALA + 300 M -tocoferol sob uma atmosfera de 5% de CO2 em ar a 38,5 °C por 22-24 h. A expansão cumulus e o estado de maturação nuclear foram determinados (Experimento 1). No experimento 2, os oócitos foram maturados como no experimento 1. Os oócitos maturados foram então fertilizados em meio de Tyrode's Albumina Lactato Piruvato (TALP) por cerca de 20 h e cultivados em meio de fluido oviductal sintético (SOF) para determinar o efeito do ácido -linolênico (100 µM) e -tocoferol em meio IVM em IVC de presumíveis zigotos. Para estudar o efeito do ácido -linolênico (100 µM) em meio IVM e aumentar a concentração de -tocoferol no meio de cultura no desenvolvimento inicial do embrião (Experimento 3), os presumíveis zigotos foram distribuídos aleatoriamente nos cinco grupos experimentais com concentração crescente de -tocoferol em meios de cultura. Maior porcentagem de oócitos em estágio MII no experimento 1 (65,2 ± 2,0), embriões em estágio de mórula no experimento 2 (30,4 ± 1,5) e experimento 3 (22,2 ± 2,0) foram obtidos. No entanto, os resultados gerais para a expansão das células do cumulus, maturação do oócito para o estágio MII e desenvolvimento embrionário subsequente entre os tratamentos permanecem estatisticamente semelhantes (P> 0,05). A suplementação de -tocoferol em meios de maturação com ácido -linolênico e / ou em meios de cultura de embriões não aumentou ainda mais a maturação in vitro de oócitos ou a produção de embriões.

Production of hispidin polyphenols from medicinal mushroom Sanghuangporus vaninii in submerged cultures / 中草药·英文版

OBJECTIVE@#The medicinal mushroom Sanghuangporus vaninii produces pharmaceutically valuable hispidin polyphenols in natural habitats. However, due to the slow growth in nature, S. vaninii grown in the field (sclerotia) is not reliable for pharmaceutical purposes. Although higher biomass of fungal mycelia can be obtained in submerged cultures, the accumulation of hispidin polyphenols is rare.@*METHODS@#In this study, the polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), linoleic acid (LA), linolenic acid (ALA), and methyl jasmonate (MeJa) were employed as the stimulant agents to coordinate the accumulation of biomass and hispidin polyphenols in its submerged cultures.@*RESULTS@#The addition of LA and ALA promoted the mycelial accumulation, while the addition of MeJa inhibited the growth of S. vaninii concomitant with reduced total polyphenols. UPLC-Triple-TOF-MS analysis revealed an increased production of hispidin, phellinstatin, pinnilidine, and its derivatives upon the addition of LA and ALA, and hypholomine B and its isomer, 3,14'-bihispidinyl, and phelligridin E upon the addition of MeJa on day 13. Intriguingly, total polyphenols from the MeJa-supplementing cultures harbored a high capacity in scavenging free radicals. Chemical structural analysis showed that hispidin polyphenols had higher antioxidant activity due to more hispidin moieties induced by MeJa.@*CONCLUSION@#The supplement of PUFAs affects the synthesis and composition of hispidin polyphenols in S. vaninii. Our results provide a possibility to coordinate the production of hispidin polyphenols via submerged cultures of S. vaninii.

Composición química, características nutricionales y beneficios asociados al consumo de chía (Salvia hispanica L.)

RESUMEN La chía (Salvia hispanica L.) es una semilla originaria de la zona sur de México y Guatemala, que se ha expandido a otros países de latinoamérica. Esta semilla ha sido utilizada con diferentes fines a lo largo de la historia, donde se destaca como producto alimentario debido a su gran versatilidad, ya que puede ser utilizada como semilla, harina integral, fracciones de fibra y/o proteína y aceite. En la actualidad, la investigación de nuevas fuentes alimentarias que otorguen beneficios a la salud ha logrado recopilar información sobre la composición química y valor nutricional de esta semilla y sus derivados (harina y aceite), donde se encuentra principalmente el contenido de ácidos grasos poli-insaturados n-3, destacando el ácido alfa linolénico (C18:3n-3, ALA), que se propone como fuente alternativa de este nutriente a alimentos de otros orígenes, además el contenido de fibra de la chía, principalmente fibra insoluble. En cuanto a los beneficios que se asocian al consumo de chía, se ha visto que tiene estrecha relación con enfermedades crónicas no transmisibles como dislipidemia, diabetes, hipertensión, cáncer, entre otras, logrando captar la atención de investigadores para controlar y prevenir estas patologías que van en aumento en la población mundial. Por lo tanto, se hace relevante profundizar en los conocimientos disponibles sobre esta semilla y sus subproductos para poder establecer los posibles mecanismos moleculares que están involucrados en la generación de beneficios para la salud. El objetivo de esta revisión es presentar una actualización de los beneficios asociados al consumo de semilla de chía y sus derivados.

ABSTRACT Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) is a seed native to the southern part of Mexico and Guatemala, which has spread to other Latin American countries. This seed has been used for different purposes throughout history, where it stands out as a food product due to its great versatility, since it can be used as a seed, whole meal flour, fiber and/or protein fractions and oil. Currently, the investigation of new food sources that provide health benefits has managed to collect information on the chemical composition and nutritional value of this seed and its derivatives (flour and oil). For polyunsaturated fatty acid content, n-3 is found, highlighting alpha linolenic acid (C18:3n-3, ALA), which is proposed as an alternative source of this nutrient to foods of other origins. In addition, the fiber content of chia, is mainly insoluble fiber. Regarding the benefits associated with chia consumption, it is closely related to chronic non-communicable diseases such as dyslipidemia, diabetes, type II, hypertension, cancer, among others, managing to attract the attention of researchers to control and prevent these pathologies that are increasing in world population. Therefore, it is relevant to deepen the knowledge available about this seed and its by-products in order to establish the possible molecular mechanisms that are involved in generating health benefits. The objective of this review is to present an update on the benefits associated with consumption of chia seed and its derivatives.

Preparation and characterization of linolenic acid-chitosan micelle for doxorubicin oral delivery and its in situ intestinal absorption in rats / 药学学报

In this study, a novel oral drug delivery system based on linolenic acid-modified chitosan (CS-LA) micelle was developed to improve the oral bioavailability of doxorubicin (DOX), which was proven by its in vivo intestinal absorption in rats. The DOX-loaded CS-LA micelles (CS-LA@DOX) were prepared by the dialysis method. The synthesized micelle material was identified by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). A series of the micelle properties, including particle size distribution, zeta potential, encapsulation efficiency (EE), drug loading (DL), micromorphology, polymorphy, and critical micelle concentration (CMC) were characterized or tested. The in vitro release of micelles was observed by the dialysis method, and the absorption-promoting effect of micelles was investigated by intestinal circulation experiments in rats. The animal welfare and experimental procedures were in accordance with the regulations of the Animal Ethics Committee of Guilin Medical University. The results of 1H-NMR and FT-IR showed that CS and LA were covalently bound via an amide linkage. The DOX encapsulated in the micelle core was in an amorphous state. The as-prepared micelles in the transmission electron microscope (TEM) image showed regular spherical shapes and uniform sizes with a series of excellent characteristics including (119.2 ± 2.1) nm of mean particle size [polymer dispersity index (PDI), 0.190 ± 0.08], +12.1 mV of zeta potential, (70.23 ± 0.74) % of EE, (8.77 ± 0.02) % of DL and 51.75 μg·mL-1 of CMC. Compared with the reference, DOX hydrochloride, the proposed micelle drug delivery system showed an obvious sustained-release effect in vitro release; and enhanced drug absorption in the small intestine of rats.

The effect of n- 3 polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation on immune and reproductive parameters in dairy cows: a review / O efeito da suplementação de ácidos graxos poliinsaturados n-3 sobre os parâmetros imunológicos e reprodutivos em vacas leiteiras: revisão de literatura

In dairy cattle, supplementation with polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) is considered to be an important tool to decrease the negative energy balance of periparturient dairy cows and improve the reproductive and immune systems. The most common PUFAs added to ruminant diets are omega 3 (n-3 PUFA) as linolenic acid and omega 6 (n-6 PUFA) as linoleic acid. This paper aims to review the potential effects of n-3 PUFA. We consider the effects of n-3 PUFA on the bovine immune system, especially on immune cells, and on in vivo and in vitro reproductive parameters, emphasizing how n-3 PUFAs act as modulators through one or more molecular mechanisms. The incorporation of n-3 PUFA in the dairy cow diet has positive effects on animal fertility and immunity. Future research on n-3 PUFA should be more explored concerning reproduction and immune function, starting from the investigation of basic biology to their potential for application in the clinical and preventive medicine fields.(AU)

Em rebanhos leiteiros, a suplementação com ácidos graxos poliinsaturados (PUFAs) é considerada uma ferramenta importante para diminuir o balanço energético negativo de vacas leiteiras durante o periparto e contribuir para a reprodução e sistema imunológico. Os efeitos da suplementação com PUFA sobre estes sistemas têm sido pouco explorados na literatura. Os PUFAs mais comuns na dieta dos ruminantes são Ômega-3 (n-3 PUFA) como ácido linolênico e Ômega-6 (n-6 PUFA) como ácido linoleico. Esta revisão abordará os aspectos gerais do n-3 PUFA, seus efeitos mais relevantes no sistema imune, principalmente seus efeitos nas células imunes, bem como seus efeitos na parte reprodutiva, tanto in vivo como in vitro, enfatizando a ação do n-3 PUFA através de mecanismos moleculares. A incorporação de n-3 PUFAs na dieta de vacas leiteiras exerce efeitos positivos na fertilidade e imunidade. Mais estudos a fim de explorar a função do n-3 PUFA na modulação do sistema imune e parâmetros reprodutivos, desde a investigação da biologia básica até a aplicação a campo de modo clínico e preventivo, devem ser requeridos.(AU)

Avaliação dos efeitos da Suplementação do Ácido Graxo ômega 3 em modelo de tumor de mama murino e mucosite induzida por 5-Fluouracil / Evaluation of the effects of Omega 3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in a model of murine breast tumor and mucositis induced by 5-Fluouracil

O ômega 3 é um ácido graxo poliinsaturado utilizado como agente terapêutico no tratamento de diversas doenças. Evidências sugerem efeito anti-inflamatório com sua utilização. A escolha do tratamento eficiente que minimize os efeitos adversos do tratamento oncológico tem sido desafiadora para a prática clínica. Dessa forma, ele seria interessante na prevenção e / ou tratamento da mucosite, uma inflamação que acomete as mucosas da boca ao ânus, decorrente da utilização de quimioterápico e radioterápico. As consequências deste agravo vão desde a perda de peso, anorexia e odinofagia, ao aumento do risco de translocação bacteriana, em virtude do aumento da permeabilidade intestinal (PI). Tais complicações podem levar à interrupção do tratamento quimioterápico até que o paciente se restabeleça. Trabalhos anteriores do nosso grupos de pesquisa demonstraram que o ômega 3 foi capaz de atenuar a perda de peso e reduzir a PI pela regulação da apoptose de células intestinais. Entretanto, possíveis efeitos da suplementação do ômega 3 no tumor não foram investigados. O presente estudo avaliou o efeito deste composto na mucosite induzida por quimioterápico em modelo de tumor de mama murino. Para tanto, camundongos Balb/c foram divididos nos grupos controle (CTL), controle tumor (CTLTU), tumor ômega 3 (TUW3), tumor 5-fluouracil (TU5FU) e tumor 5-fluouracil ômega 3 (TU5FUW3). Nos animais dos grupos com tumor foi realizada a inoculação das células tumorais (dia 1) e, uma vez que os tumores já se encontravam palpáveis (dia10), os grupos TUW3 e TU5FUW3 iniciaram a suplementação com ômega 3 pela ração por 10 dias, enquanto os demais animais receberam ração controle. Ao final desse período, os animais dos grupos TU5FU e TU5FUW3 receberam injeção intraperitoneal de 5-FU (300mg/kg) para indução da mucosite, enquanto os demais animais receberam a injeção de solução salina. Após 72 horas, os animais foram eutanasiados para coleta de dados. A suplementação com ômega 3 não foi capaz de prevenir a perda de peso em decorrência da mucosite. Entretanto, os animais do grupo TU5FUW3 apresentaram redução da PI por meio da recuperação das junções firmes ZO-1 e ocludina, além da preservação da arquitetura dos vilos. Os animais do grupo CTLTU também apresentaram aumento da PI e redução da expressão das proteínas de junção, provavelmente pela liberação de citocinas TNF-α e IL-1ß, conforme dosagem destas no baço. Nos animais suplementados com ômega 3 foi observado redução do tamanho do tumor e do número de metástases tumorais, além de redução da proliferação de células tumorais e aumento da afinidade das células tumorais ao quimioterápico, levando à apoptose destas. Este processo de citotoxicidade seletiva foi observado pela redução da toxicidade hepática. Diante desses resultados, pode-se concluir que a suplementação de ômega 3, por período de dez dias, foi capaz de atenuar os efeitos da mucosite induzida por quimioterápico, sem causar prejuízo à sua atividade antitumoral.

Omega 3 is a polyunsaturated fatty acid used as a therapeutic agent in the treatment of various diseases. It is widely accepted that its use can exert an anti-inflammatory effect. Thus, it would be interesting in the prevention and treatment of mucositis, which is described as an inflammation that affects mucosal membranes from the mouth to the anus, due to the use of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Patients who suffer from this outcome, usually presents weight loss, anorexia and odynophagia,also there is an increased risk of bacterial translocation, due to the increase of the intestinal permeability (IP). Such complications can lead to the interruption of chemotherapy treatment until the patient is recovered. Previous work has shown that omega 3 was able to reduce weight loss and reduce IP by reducing intestinal cell apoptosis. However, the effects of omega 3 supplementation from the diet on the tumor remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effect of this compound on chemotherapy-induced mucositis in the murine breast tumor model. For that, BALB/ c mice were divided into the control (CTL), tumor control (CTLTU), omega 3 tumor (TUW3), 5-fluouracil tumor (TU5FU) and 5-fluouracil omega 3 tumor (TU5FUW3) groups. Tumor cells were inoculated (day 1) and, since they were already palpable (day 10), groups TUW3 and TU5FUW3 started receiving the chow supplemented with omega 3 for 10 days, while the other animals received control chow. At the end of this period, animals from groups TU5FU and TU5FUW3 received an intraperitoneal injection of 5-FU (300mg / kg) to induce mucositis, while the other animals received an injection of saline. After 72 hours, all animals were euthanized for data collection. Omega 3 supplementation was not able to prevent weight loss due to mucositis. However, animals from TU5FUW3 group showed a reduction in IP by recovering the tight-junctions ZO-1 and occludin, and by preventing the mucosal damage. Animals from CTLTU group also showed increased PI and reduced expression of tight-junction proteins, probably due to the release of cytokines TNF-α and IL-1ß, according to their dosage in the spleen. In addition, our results have demonstrated that animals supplemented with omega 3, have shown a reduction in the size of the tumor and the number of metastasis in lungs. We have found that the reduction was mediated through a reduction in the proliferation of tumor cells and also by an increased affinity of tumor cells to the chemotherapeutic drug, leading to their apoptosis. This selective cytotoxicity process leads to the reduction of liver toxicity. Given these results, we can conclude that omega 3 supplementation, for ten days, was able to attenuate the effects of chemotherapy-induced mucositis, without causing damage to its antitumor activity.

Qualidade seminal e perfil metabólico de caprinos alimentados com semente de linhaça na dieta / Semen quality and metabolic profile of goats fed flaxseed in the diet

O objetivo da presente pesquisa foi avaliar o efeito da inclusão de semente de linhaça na dieta sobre a qualidade seminal e o perfil metabólico de machos caprinos. Foram utilizados 16 machos da raça Saanen, distribuídos aleatoriamente em quatro grupos, recebendo níveis de inclusão de semente de linhaça (0, 4, 8 e 12%) na dieta, durante um período de 60 dias. As coletas e as avaliações seminais foram realizadas duas vezes por semana. Os animais foram submetidos a coletas quinzenais de sangue, durante todo o período experimental. Os dados foram avaliados por ANOVA e pela análise de regressão a 5% de significância. Houve comportamento cúbico para motilidade espermática progressiva, que apresentou o maior valor (82,30%) com a adição de 9,92% de semente de linhaça na dieta (P<0,05). Houve comportamento cúbico para concentração plasmática de triglicerídeos, e o nível de 8% de semente de linhaça na dieta apresentou média de 43,32mg dL-1, acima dos valores normais para a espécie caprina (P<0,05). A inclusão de semente de linhaça na dieta de machos caprinos proporcionou melhora na produção espermática e na qualidade seminal. No entanto, devem-se considerar os possíveis efeitos dos níveis superiores a 4% de semente de linhaça sobre o perfil metabólico dos animais.(AU)

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of flaxseed inclusion in the diet of male goats through the semen quality and metabolic profile. Randomly allocated 16 Saanen males were placed into four groups receiving flaxseed inclusion levels (0, 4, 8 and 12%) in the diet over a period of 60 days. The collections and seminal evaluations were performed twice a week. The animals were subjected to biweekly blood collections from the beginning to the end of the trial period. The data were evaluated by ANOVA and regression analysis at 5% significance. A cubic behavior for motility, with the highest value (82.30%) with the addition of 9.92% of flaxseed in the diet (P< 0.05) was detected. A cubic behavior for plasma triglyceride concentration and the level of 8% of flaxseed in the diet averaged 43.32mg dL -1 above normal values for goats (P< 0.05) was detected. The inclusion of flaxseed in the diet of male goats improved sperm production and quality. However, one should consider the possible effects of the levels above 4% of flaxseed on the metabolic profile of the animals.(AU)

Interactions between Cannabis Fructus and human gut microflora / 中草药

Objective To explore the characteristics of the interactions between traditional laxative medicine Cannabis Fructus and human gut microflora. Methods HPLC method was used to determine the content of the main unsaturated fatty acids linoleic acid and linolenic acid in Cannabis Fructus Decoction. At the same time, solid culture and liquid culture in vitro anaerobic culture method were combined with 16 S rRNA technology to analyze the interactions between Cannabis Fructus Decotion and human gut microflora. Moreover, the metabolits of linoleic acid and linolenic acid in Cannabis Fructus Decoction by human intestinal microflora were determined using HPLC method. At the same time, the possible conjugated linolenic acid and linoleic acid were determined. Results Cannabis Fructus Decoction promoted the growth of Proteobacteria significantly, which showed that Escherichia-shigella was significantly increased (P < 0.01), but the growth of Bacteroidetes was decreased (P < 0.01), and the content of unsaturated fatty acids linoleic acid and linolenic acid in Cannabis Fructus Decoction were reduced after being incubated with human intestinal bacteria, and the metabolites were conjugated linoleic acid and conjugated linolenic acid. Conclusion The interactions between Cannabis Fructus Decoction and human intestinal microflora are obvious. The Chinese medicine can change the structure of the gut microflora, and the gut microflora can metabolize the drug components. This analysis method partially restores the pharmacokinetics process of the oral administration drug in the human intestinal tract. It could provide a new insight of the mechanism research of Cannabis Fructus.

Assessment of anti-depressant activity of omega 3 fatty acids in rodents

Background: Depression contributes to significant disease burden at national and global levels. At the personal and domestic level too, depression leads to poor quality of life, causing a huge socioeconomic impact. In the world, over 300 million people are estimated to have depression and the numbers of depressed persons are only projected to go up.Methods: The forced swim test (FST) is one of the most commonly used animal models for assessment of antidepressant effects in rodents. In the modified version of this test, the rats are forced to swim in a glass tank with no means of escape, inducing a behaviour of immobility, which resembles a state of despair, akin to depression in humans. The rats were divided into 6 groups: 1. control group: treated with distilled water; 2. standard group treated with fluoxetine Hcl (10mg/kg); 3.test-1 group treated with omega-3 FAs (300mg/kg); 4.test-2 group treated with a higher dose of omega-3 FAs (500 mg/kg); 5.test-3 group treated with omega-3 FAs (300mg/kg) and fluoxetine (10mg/kg); and 6.test-4 group treated with omega-3 FAs (500 mg/kg) and fluoxetine (10mg/kg).Results: The independent between-groups ANOVA yielded a statistically highly significant result, F (5, 30) = 9.47, P <0.001. Thus, the null hypothesis of no difference between the means was rejected. To further evaluate the nature of the differences between the means of the six groups, the statically significant ANOVA result was followed by Tukey's honest significant difference post-hoc tests.Conclusions: This study finds that omega 3 fatty acids have intrinsic antidepressant activity, and the combination of fluoxetine and omega 3 fatty acids has significantly more antidepressant effect than fluoxetine alone in the forced swim test done on Wistar rats.

Ômega 3 na gestação e seus benefícios / Omega 3 during pregnancy and its benefits

O objetivo desta pesquisa é levantar a literatura científica sobre os benefícios do Ômega-3 na gestação, que se deu pelas bases de dados Scientifc Electronic Library Online (Scielo), Literatura Latino-Americana e do Caribe em Ciências da Saúde (Lilacs), Literatura Internacional em Ciências de Saúde (Medline) e National Library of Medicine (Pubmed) e Cochrane em literaturas nacionais e internacionais. Nesta pesquisa pode-se verificar que o ácido docosahexaenoico (DHA) é considerado como o principal tipo de Ômega-3 pelo fato de proporcionar benefícios para a saúde, que vão desde o desenvolvimento do cérebro e da retina do bebê, os quais têm início a partir da suplementação da mãe já na gestação. O acúmulo do Ômega-3 ocorre no último trimestre da gestação e o transporte se dá através da placenta, sendo depositado no cérebro e na retina do concepto. Ocorre também um acúmulo simultâneo nas glândulas mamárias durante esta fase. O recomendado pelo consenso é de 200mg/dia, independentemente da fonte utilizada para suplementação. O adequado aporte de Ômega-3 na gestação e no pós-natal tem influência positiva no desenvolvimento visual e do sistema nervoso do recém-nascido, influenciando também na inteligência e na intelectualidade do indivíduo na vida adulta. O Ômega-3 é importante também na prevenção e tratamento de diversas doenças como obesidade, doenças cardiovasculares, imunológicas, câncer de cólon, entre outras.(AU)

The objective of this research is to raise the scientific literature on the benefits of omega-3 during pregnancy, which occurred in research in databases Scientifc Electronic Library Online (Scielo), Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences (Lilacs) , International Literature in Health Sciences (MEDLINE) and national Library of Medicine (PubMed) and the Cochrane in national and international literature, which can be seen that docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is considered as the main type of Omega-3, the fact provide health benefits ranging from brain development and the baby's retina, which begins from the mother during pregnancy supplementation already. The Omega-3 accumulation occurs in the last trimester of pregnancy and the transport is through the placenta being deposited in the brain and retina of the fetus. It is also a simultaneous accumulation in the mammary glands during this phase. The recommended by consensus is 200 mg / day, regardless of the source used for supplementation. Adequate intake of omega-3 during pregnancy and in the postnatal has positive influences on visual development and the nervous system of the newborn, influencing also the intelligence and the individual intellect in adulthood. The Omega-3 is also important in the prevention and treatment of various diseases as obesity, cardiovascular, immune disorders, colon cancer, among others.(AU)

Chia (Salvia hispanica) experiment at a 30˚ N site in Sichuan Basin, China / Performance agronômica da chia (Salvia hispanica) cultivada aos 30˚ N na Bacia de Sichuan, China

ABSTRACT: The mysterious ancient Mesoamerican Indian crop chia (Salvia hispanica) is revived and expanding worldwide due to its richness of valuable nutraceuticals such as α-linolenic acid (ALA), antioxidants, food fiber, gels, and proteins. We carried out a pilot experiment on chia planting in non-frost Sichuan Basin, at Hechuan Base (30˚0′ 43″ N, 106˚7′ 41″ E, 216 m), Southwest University, Chongqing, China. The split-plot trial contained two factors, 3 spring-summer sowing times as main plots, and 6 densities as subplots, with 3 replicates. Phenological, botanical, adversity, yield, and seed quality traits were investigated. Plants were very tall, suffered from lodging, and flowered in mid-October. Sichuan Basin can be considered as a north edge for growing chia, with low yield (680 kg/hectare) because of insufficient seed filling and maturation in autumn-winter season (1000-seed weight of 1.14 g). However, its ALA content is 5 percent points higher than the seed-donor commercial bottle (65.06%/63.96% VS 59.35%/59.74% for black/white seeds), accompanied by decrease oleic and stearic acid, while linoleic acid and palmitic acid are equivalent. Considering its short-day habit, it is recommended to try sowing in middle summer (from late June to early August) to avoid too long growing period, excessive vegetative growth, and waste of field and climate resources caused by spring-summer sowing. Furthermore, winter sowing of chia with mulch cover could also be tried, with an expectation of harvesting in summer. Most importantly, only when the photoperiod-insensitive early flowering stocks are created, chia can be recommended as a low-risk crop to the farmers of this region.

RESUMO: A chia (Salvia hispanica) é cultivada em todo o mundo por sua riqueza de nutrientes nutracêuticos valiosos, tais como a-ácido linolênico (ALA), antioxidantes, fibras alimentares, géis e proteínas. Entretanto, não há informações sobre sua performance agronômica se cultivada aos 30˚N na China. Assim, realizou-se um experimento com o cultivo de chia na base Hechuan (30°0'43"N, 106°7'41"E, 216m, que não apresenta geada) da Southwest University, Chongqing, China. O delineamento em parcela subdividida contém dois fatores,três épocas de semeadura na primavera-verão como parcelas principais e seis densidades de sementes como subparcelas, com três repetições. Foram investigados os caracteres fenológicos, botânicos, de adversidade, rendimento e qualidade da semente. As plantas se tornaram altas, acamarame floresceram em meados de outubro. A bacia de Sichuan pode ser considerada como uma fronteira limítrofe norte para o crescimento da chia, com baixo rendimento (680kg ha-1) devido ao enchimento e amadurecimento insuficientes na estação outono-inverno (peso de 1000 sementes de 1,14g). No entanto, o seu conteúdo de ALA é de 5 pontos percentuais mais elevado do que a semente comercial, 65,06%/63,96% contra 59,35%/59,74% para as sementes pretas/brancas, respectivamente, acompanhado por diminuição de ácido oleico e ácido esteárico, enquanto que o ácido linoleico e o ácido palmítico são equivalentes. Considerando o seu hábito de dia curto, recomenda-se semear no meio do verão,de junho a início de agosto, para evitar um tempo de cultivo muito longo, desenvolvimento vegetativo excessivo e desperdício de recursos de campo e clima causados pela semeadura de primavera-verão. Além disso, a semeadura de inverno da chia com cobertura morta também poderia ser realizada, com expectativa de colheita no verão. Mais importante ainda, somente quando os estoques de floração precoce insensíveis ao fotoperíodo são criados, pode-se recomendar como uma cultura de baixo risco para os agricultores desta região.

α-Linolenic acid prevents hepatic steatosis and improves glucose tolerance in mice fed a high-fat diet

OBJECTIVES: Dietary omega-3 fatty acids have been efficacious in decreasing serum cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, the metabolic and molecular changes induced by the omega-3 fatty acid α-linolenic acid (ALA), which is found in linseed oil, are not fully understood. In this study, we showed a correlation between ALA and insulin resistance, inflammation and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS). METHODS: We studied 40 male mice (C57/BL6) divided into 4 groups: a control (C) group, a control + omega-3/ALA (CA) group, a high-fat diet (HFD) (H) group and a high-fat diet + omega-3/ALA (HA) group. For 8 weeks, the animals in the H and HA groups were fed a high-fat (60%) diet, while the animals in the C and CA groups received regular chow. The diets of the CA and HA groups were supplemented with 10% lyophilized ALA. RESULTS: ALA supplementation improved glucose tolerance and reduced insulin resistance, as measured by intraperitoneal glucose tolerance tests and the homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance, respectively. In addition, ALA reduced hepatic steatosis and modified the standard fat concentration in the liver of animals fed an HFD. Dietary ALA supplementation reduced the serum levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), increased the expression of important chaperones such as binding immunoglobulin protein (BIP) and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and reduced the expression of C/EBP-homologous protein (CHOP) and X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1) in hepatic tissues, suggesting an ERS adaptation in response to ALA supplementation. CONCLUSIONS: Dietary ALA supplementation is effective in preventing hepatic steatosis; is associated with a reduction in insulin resistance, inflammation and ERS; and represents an alternative for improving liver function and obtaining metabolic benefits.

Effect of Evening Primrose Oil on Korean Patients With Mild Atopic Dermatitis: A Randomized, Double-Blinded, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study

BACKGROUND: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is related to a deficiency of delta-6-desaturase, an enzyme responsible for converting linoleic acid to gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Evening primrose oil (EPO) as a source of GLA has been of interest in the management of AD. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of EPO in Korean patients with AD. METHODS: Fifty mild AD patients with an Eczema Area Severity Index (EASI) score of 10 or less were enrolled and randomly divided into two groups. The first group received an oval unmarked capsule containing 450 mg of EPO (40 mg of GLA) per capsule, while placebo capsules identical in appearance and containing 450 mg of soybean oil were given to the other group. Treatment continued for a period of four months. EASI scores, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), and skin hydration were evaluated in all the AD patients at the baseline, and in months 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the study. RESULTS: At the end of month 4, the patients of the EPO group showed a significant improvement in the EASI score (p=0.040), whereas the patients of the placebo group did not. There was a significant difference in the EASI score between the EPO and placebo groups (p=0.010). Although not statistically significant, the TEWL and skin hydration also slightly improved in the EPO patients group. CONCLUSION: We suggest that EPO is a safe and effective medicine for Korean patients with mild AD.

The Effect of α-linolenic acid on acute inflammation and neurological functional recovery of mice with traumatic brain injury / 中国神经精神疾病杂志

Objective To investigate the effects of α-linolenic acid (ALA) on acute inflammation and neurological functional recovery of mice with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Methods The C57BL6/N mice were divided into high ALA dietary group (20 pregnant and 88 new-born mice) and low ALA dietary group (20 pregnant and 84 new-born mice) in this study. The contents of polyunsaturated fatty acids in the brain of the two groups were detected by gas chromatography. Mouse TBI model was established by control cortical impact method. The expression levels of inflammatory cytokines and cellular markers of the two groups were detected by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay or Western Blotting at 0, 4, 24 and 96 h after TBI, respectively. The neurological functions were analyzed by the rotarod, beam walk test and fear conditioning experiment. Results The content of brain docosahexoenoic acid (DHA) was significantly higher in the high ALA dietary group than in the low ALA dietary group (15.48±1.20% vs 9.98±1.10%, P<0.05). The expression levels of TNF-α, IL-1β , IL-6 and CCL12 were lower in high ALA groups than in low ALA group after TBI (P<0.05). The motor function recovery 24 h after TBI was faster in the high ALA dietary group than in the lower ALA diet group. The cognitive function 24 h after TBI was better in the high ALA dietary group than in the low ALA group. Conclusion Increasing DHA levels in the brain can reduce acute inflammation and improve neurological function recovery after TBI.

Linum usitatissimum as an antimicrobial agent and a potential natural healer: A review

@#Linum usitatissimum commonly known as flaxseed is one of the oldest crops traditionally cultivated mainly for its oil purposes. Flaxseed is widely known for its rich source of nutritive and bioactive compounds. Recently, it has gained considerable interest due to the potential health benefits attributed to its component of metabolites, including its antimicrobial properties. Two main components of flaxseed, the unsaturated fatty acids and lignan, are suggested as the main metabolites that exhibit antimicrobial activities. This paper aims to give an overview on fatty acid and phenolic compound in flaxseed and their possible activities as antimicrobial agents.

Effectiveness of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids against microbial pathogens / 浙江大学学报（英文版）（B辑：生物医学和生物技术）

Microorganisms provide both beneficial and harmful effects to human beings. Beneficial effects come from the symbiotic relationship that exists between humans and microbiota, but then several human illnesses have turned some friendly microbes into opportunistic pathogens, causing several microbial-related diseases. Various efforts have been made to create and utilize antimicrobial agents in the treatment and prevention of these infections, but such efforts have been hampered by the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Despite extensive studies on drug discovery to alleviate this problem, issues with the toxicity and tolerance of certain compounds and continuous microbial evolution have forced researchers to focus on screening various phytochemical dietary compounds for antimicrobial activity. Linolenic acid and its derivatives (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid) are omega-3 fatty acids that have been studied due to their role in human health, being important for the brain, the eye, the cardiovascular system, and general human growth. However, their utilization as antimicrobial agents has not been widely appreciated, perhaps due to a lack of understanding of antimicrobial mechanisms, toxicity, and route of administration. Therefore, this review focuses on the efficacy, mechanism, and toxicity of omega-3 fatty acids as alternative therapeutic agents for treating and preventing diseases associated with pathogenic microorganisms.

Plasma metabonomic study on glycyrrhiza flavonoids against irinotecan-induced colitis in mice based on GC-MS / 中草药

Objective To make a preliminary investigation on the mechanism of the glycyrrhizin flavonoids alleviating the gastrointestinal toxicities of irinotecan. The pharmacological effects of glycyrrhizin flavonoids on the changes of endogenous differential metabolites of irinotecan-induced gastrointestinal toxicities were evaluated by using GC-MS metabolomics methods. Methods C57BL/6 mice were divided into normal group, model group, positive group (ciprofloxacin), and glycyrrhizin flavonoids group. Irinotecan induced colitis model were established in mice by intraperitoneally injected. The body weight, length of colon, and tissue sections were used to evaluate the effect of glycyrrhizin flavonoids on alleviating irinotecan-induced experimental colitis. Meanwhile, to evaluate the attenuating effect of glycyrrhizin flavonoids from the perspective of metabonomics, GC-MS was used for non-targeted metabolism in order to find out the the change of related metabolites in plasma between experimental colitis mice and glycyrrhizin flavonoids treatment mice. Furthermore, metabolic pathway was constructed by MetaboAnalyst software to explore the potential mechanism. Results Glycyrrhizin flavonoids could significantly reduce the loss of body weight, colon shortening, and intestinal damage caused by irinotecan administration, and effectively reverse the irinotecan-induced plasma metabolic disorders in mice, including fatty acid metabolism, amino acid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism, significantly callback seven long-chain fatty acids such as lauric acid, palmitic acid, linoleic acid, oleic acid, linolenic acid, palmitic acid monoglyceride, and oleic acid monoglyceride. Conclusion Glycyrrhizin flavonoids could improve the irinotecan-induced experimental colitis in mice by regulating linoleic acid metabolism and alpha-linolenic acid metabolism.

Protective effects of perilla oil and alpha linolenic acid on SH-SY5Y neuronal cell death induced by hydrogen peroxide

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: Oxidative stress plays a key role in neuronal cell damage, which is associated with neurodegenerative disease. The aim of present study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of perilla oil (PO) and its active component, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress in SH-SY5Y neuronal cells. MATERIALS/METHODS: The SH-SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells exposed to 250 µM H₂O₂ for 24 h were treated with different concentrations of PO (25, 125, 250 and 500 µg/mL) and its major fatty acid, ALA (1, 2.5, 5 and 25 µ/mL). We examined the effects of PO and ALA on H₂O₂-induced cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release, and nuclear condensation. Moreover, we determined whether PO and ALA regulated the apoptosis-related protein expressions, such as cleaved-poly ADP ribose polymerase (PARP), cleaved caspase-9 and -3, BCL-2 and BAX. RESULTS: Treatment of H₂O₂ resulted in decreased cell viability, increased LDH release, and increase in the nuclei condensation as indicated by Hoechst 33342 staining. However, PO and ALA treatment significantly attenuated the neuronal cell death, indicating that PO and ALA potently blocked the H₂O₂-induced neuronal apoptosis. Furthermore, cleaved-PARP, cleaved caspase-9 and -3 activations were significantly decreased in the presence of PO and ALA, and the H₂O₂-mediated up-regulated BAX/BCL-2 ratio was blocked after treatment with PO and ALA. CONCLUSIONS: PO and its main fatty acid, ALA, exerted the protective activity from neuronal oxidative stress induced by H₂O₂. They regulated apoptotic pathway in neuronal cell death by alleviation of BAX/BCL-2 ratio, and down-regulation of cleaved-PARP and cleaved caspase-9 and -3. Although further studies are required to verify the protective mechanisms of PO and ALA from neuronal damage, PO and ALA are the promising agent against oxidative stress-induced apoptotic neuronal cell death.

Fatty acid profile in vertical strata of elephant grass subjected to intermittent stocking

ABSTRACT The milk and meat from animals with a pasture-based diet have higher proportions of CLA and C18:3 and lower omega-6:omega-3 ratios than products from animals with diets based on corn silage and concentrate. However, most of the published studies have evaluated fatty acid profiles in temperate climate grasses and the literature with tropical grasses is scarce. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the morphological and fatty acid compositions in the vertical strata of elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum Schum.) swards subjected to grazing heights (90 or 120 cm pre-grazing heights) and levels of defoliation (50% or 70% removal of the initial pre-grazing height). There were no interactions among pre-grazing height, the level of defoliation and grazing stratum. However, higher proportion of C18:3 (58% and 63%) was found in the 90-cm swards and in the half upper stratum. A higher proportion of C18:3 was associated with a higher leaf proportion and crude protein content. Thus, the upper stratum of sward or a grazing management scheme (e.g. first-last stocking) resulting in a higher proportion of leaves and crude protein both provide higher proportions of C18:3 to animals grazing in elephant grass swards.

Insufficient intake of alpha-linolenic fatty acid (18:3n-3) during pregnancy: and associated factors / Ingestão insuficiente de ácido graxo alfa-linolênico (18:3n-3) durante a gestação: e fatores associados

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze alpha-linolenic fatty acid intake in two cohorts of pregnant women, and to identify factors associated with alpha-linolenic acid intake. Methods: This is a cohort study involving pregnant women with low obstetric risk (N=353) in public health system from a municipality of São Paulo state, Brazil. In each trimester, two 24-hour food recalls were collected. Descriptive analyses of dietary lipid profiles were performed, followed by a multiple comparison test. According to the trimester of pregnancy, differences were assessed using the mean difference test. To evaluate the adequacy of linoleic fatty acid and alpha-linolenic acid intake, the adequate intake test was used. The association between alpha-linolenic acid intake adequacy and maternal characteristics was investigated using a binary logistic regression model. Results: Total lipids intake and the percentage contribution to dietary energy met recommended levels. One-third of the diets demonstrated a lower than daily recommended intake of alpha-linolenic acid. Overweight pregnant women were twice as likely to have inadequate alpha-linolenic acid intake. Pregnant women from a more disadvantaged socioeconomic situation had greater risks of inadequate intake. Conclusion: Over-intake of lipids is not problematic, but quality is an issue, with one third of the pregnant women and their fetuses exposed to adverse effects due to low intake of omega-3 fatty acids, indicating important nutritional vulnerability in this population.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a ingestão ácidos graxos alfa-linolênico e identificar fatores associados à ingestão inadequada em duas coortes de gestantes acompanhadas trimestralmente. Métodos: Estudo de coorte com gestantes de baixo risco obstétrico (N=353) representativas das usuárias da rede pública de saúde de um município paulista. Nos três trimestres gestacionais foram coletados dois recordatórios alimentares de 24 horas. Análises descritivas do perfil lipídico da dieta foram processadas seguidas do teste de comparações múltiplas. As diferenças, segundo trimestre gestacional, foram avaliadas pelo teste de diferença de médias. Para avaliação da adequação do consumo foi utilizada a ingestão recomendável. A associação entre a adequação da ingestão de ácido alfa-linolênico e características maternas foi investigada por meio de modelo de regressão logística binária. Resultados: A contribuição percentual de lipídeos totais mostrou-se adequada;1/3 das gestantes não alcançou a recomendação de ingestão diária de ácido alfa-linolênico. Gestantes com excesso de peso apresentam o dobro de chances de consumo inadequado de ácido alfa-linolênico. Comparadas às gestantes das classes D/E, as pertencentes a classe C têm menores chances de consumo inadequado. Conclusão: Não há um problema de excesso de consumo de lipídeos e sim da qualidade destes, cerca de 1/3 das gestantes acompanhadas e seus conceptos estão expostos aos efeitos adversos do baixo consumo de ácidos graxos de cadeia ômega-3 na gestação, indicando importante vulnerabilidade nutricional nessa população.