Limiting amino acids supplementation in low crude protein diets and their impacts on growth performance and carcass composition in Labeo rohita (rohu) adult fish / Limitação da suplementação de aminoácidos em dietas com baixo teor de proteína bruta e seus impactos no desempenho de crescimento e composição da carcaça em peixes adultos Labeo rohita (rohu)

Ninety days study was conducted in hapas installed in earthen ponds. Fish of an average initial weight (220g) were evenly distributed in triplicate groups within fifteen hapas. Five experimental diets labeled as T1 (25% CP and NRC recommended amino acid level) as control diet, T2 (with 2% low protein and 5% amino acid supplementation), T3 (with 2% low protein and 10% amino acid supplementation), T4 (with 4% low protein and 10% amino acid supplementation) and T5 (with 4% low protein and 20% amino acid supplementation) were prepared. Fish were fed with @3% of their body weight twice a day at 10.00 & 16:00 hour. Significantly higher percent weight gain (420.18 ± 66.84a) and specific growth rate (13499.33±1273.54a) along with improved feed conversion ratio (1.29 ± 0.09b) and hundred percent survivals were recorded during the trial. Furthermore proximate analysis of meat showed significant improvement in the crude protein level (81.77 ± 0.19a) served with diet containing 20% limiting amino acids mixture. Therefore, limiting amino acids can be a source of cost effective feed and use safely in L. rohita diet.

O estudo de 90 dias foi realizado em hapas instalados em tanques de terra. Peixes com peso inicial médio (220 g) foram distribuídos uniformemente em grupos triplicados em 15 hapas. Cinco dietas experimentais rotuladas como T1 (25% de CP e NRC recomendado nível de aminoácidos) como dieta controle, T2 (com 2% de proteína baixa e 5% de suplementação de aminoácidos), T3 (com 2% de proteína baixa e 10% de suplementação de aminoácidos), T4 (com 4% de baixa proteína e 10% de suplementação de aminoácidos) e T5 (com 4% de baixa proteína e 20% de suplementação de aminoácidos) foram preparadas. Os peixes foram alimentados com 3% do seu peso corporal duas vezes por dia às 10h00 e 16h00. Ganho de peso significativamente maior (420,18 ± 66,84a) e taxa de crescimento específico (13499,33 ± 1273,54a) juntamente com taxa de conversão alimentar melhorada (1, 29 ± 0,09b) e sobrevivência de cem por cento foram registrados durante o ensaio. Além disso, a análise aproximada da carne mostrou melhora significativa no nível de proteína bruta (81,77 ± 0,19a) servida com dieta contendo 20% de mistura de aminoácidos limitantes. Portanto, a limitação de aminoácidos pode ser uma fonte de alimentação econômica e usada com segurança na dieta de L. rohita.

Effects of perinatal protein restriction on the oxidative balance in the hypothalamus of 60-day-old rats / Efeitos da restrição proteica perinatal sobre o balanço oxidativo no hipotálamo de ratos de 60 dias de idade

ABSTRACT Objective Evaluate the effects of maternal low-protein diet on the oxidative stress in the hypothalamus of 60-day-old rats. Methods Male Wistar rats were divided into two experimental groups according to the mother's diet during pregnancy and lactation; control group (NP:17% casein n=6) and a malnourished group (LP:8% casein n=6). At 60 days of life, the rats were sacrificed for the collection of the hypothalamus for further biochemical analysis. Results Our results showed an increase in oxidative stress in malnourished group, observed through an increase in carbonyl content (p=0.0357), a reduction in the activity of the glutathione-S-transferase enzyme (p=0.0257), and a reduction in the non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity evidenced by the decrease in the ratio reduced glutathione/oxidized glutathione (p=0.0406) and total thiol levels (p=0.0166). Conclusion A low-protein diet during pregnancy and lactation is closely associated with increased oxidative stress and reduced antioxidant capacity in the hypothalamus of sixty-day-old rats.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar os efeitos da restrição proteica materna sobre o estresse oxidativo no hipotálamo de ratos de 60 dias de idade. Métodos Ratos Wistar machos foram divididos em dois grupos experimentais de acordo com a dieta da mãe durante a gestação e lactação: grupo controle (NP: 17% caseína n=6) e grupo desnutrido (LP: 8% caseína n=6). Aos 60 dias de vida, os ratos foram sacrificados para coleta do hipotálamo para posterior análise bioquímica. Resultados Os resultados demonstraram aumento do estresse oxidativo no grupo desnutrido, observado através do aumento do conteúdo de cabonilas (p=0,0357) e redução da atividade da enzima glutationa-S-transferase (p=0,0257) e da capacidade antioxidante não enzimática, evidenciada pela queda da razão glutationa reduzida/glutationa oxidada (p=0,0406) e dos níveis de tióis totais (p=0,0166). Conclusão Uma dieta com baixo teor de proteínas durante a gestação e lactação está intimamente associada ao aumento do estresse oxidativo e à redução da capacidade antioxidante no hipotálamo de ratos de 60 dias de vida.

Protein malnutrition during lactation affects thoracic aortic tunica media thickness in Wistar rat pups

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the morphological effects of a low-protein diet during maternal lactation on the offspring's thoracic aorta. Methods: Two female Wistar rats were mated with male of the same species at 4 months of age. Until the birth of the pups, all animals received commercial rat chow. After giving birth, the puerperal females were divided into two groups and adjusted the litter to five puppies per group: a control group that received commercial feed, and an experimental group whose diet included the same amount of calories, but 8% lower protein content. All animals' masses were measured throughout the lactation period, and the pups were euthanized after weaning at 21 days of age. The thoracic aorta was removed, histologically processed and stained with Weigert's resorcin-fuchsin for histomorphometric analysis of tunica media thickness. Results: Although both groups were born with similar body mass, during the 21 days of lactation the restricted protein group gained only 39% of the body mass of the control group. Histomorphometric analysis revealed that the restricted protein group had a significantly lower mean tunica media thickness than the control group. Conclusions: A low-protein diet for nursing mothers influences mass gain and aortic tunica media thickness in their offspring.

Protease em dietas com baixa proteína contendo farinha de Penas para codornas de corte / [Protease in low-protein diets for meat-type quails containing feather meal]

Objetivou-se avaliar a suplementação de protease em dietas com baixa proteína contendo farinha de penas (FP) sobre o desempenho e o rendimento de carcaça de codornas de corte. Foram utilizadas 240 codornas, machos, distribuídas em delineamento inteiramente ao acaso, em esquema fatorial 2x 3 (com e sem protease x 3 níveis de FP (0%, 5% e 10%)), totalizando seis tratamentos (dieta reduzida (DR) em 8% da exigência de proteína bruta e aminoácidos + 0% FP; DR + 5% FP; DR + 10% FP; DR + 0% FP + protease; DR + 5% FP + protease e DR + 10% FP + protease), quatro repetições de 10 codornas por parcela, nas fases de oito-21 dias e oito-35 dias de idade. Observou-se interação (P≤0,05) entre os níveis de FP e protease no ganho de peso de oito-21 dias. Os níveis de FP influenciaram (P≤0,05) o consumo de ração e o ganho de peso de oito-21 e oito-35 e a conversão alimentar de oito-21 dias. Verificou-se interação (P≤0,05) entre aprotease e a inclusão de FPpara o peso corporalaos 35 dias. Conclui-se que aFP pode ser utilizada em até 5% em dietas para codornas de corte semsuplementação comprotease.(AU)

The objective of this study was to evaluate protease supplementation in low-protein diets containing feather meal (FP) on the performance and carcass yield of meat-type quails. Twenty male quails were used in a completely randomized design, in a 2 x 3 factorial scheme (with and without protease x 3 FP levels (0, 5 and 10%)), totaling six treatments (Reduced diet (RD) in 8 % of the requirement of crude protein and amino acids + 0% FP; RD + 5% FP; RD + 10% FP; RD + 0% FP + protease; RD + 5% FP + protease and RD + 10% FP + protease), four replicates of 10 quails per plot, in the phases of 8-21 days and 8-35 days of age. Interaction (P≤0.05) was observed between FP and protease levels on weight gain over the period of 8-21 days. The levels of FP influenced (P≤0.05) the feed intake and the weight gain of 8-21 and 8-35 and the feed conversion ratio of 8-21 days. There was interaction (P≤0.05) between protease supplementation and FP inclusion for body weight at 35 days. It is concluded that FP can be used up to 5% in diets for meat-type quails without protease supplementation.(AU)

Guía de práctica clínica para el tamizaje, diagnóstico y manejo de la enfermedad renal crónica en los estadios 1 al 3 / Clinical practice guideline for the screening, diagnosis and management of chronic kidney disease in stages 1 to 3

La enfermedad renal crónica (ERC) consiste en la pérdida progresiva de la función renal a través de cinco estadios (1, 2). Esta condición es un problema de salud pública que ocasiona daños en la calidad de vida y pérdidas socioeconómicas por la mortalidad, discapacidad y costos asociados que genera (3). Se estima que la ERC afecta al 8% a 16% de la población mundial y tanto la incidencia como mortalidad van en aumento (4). La carga de enfermedad de la ERC se ve incrementada por las comorbilidades asociadas a esta enfermedad, de tal manera que la diabetes mellitus e hipertensión arterial son condiciones frecuentemente asociadas (1, 4). En Perú, un estudio realizado en Lima y Tumbes reportó que la prevalencia de ERC fue de 20.7% y 12.9%, respectivamente, en el año 2011 (5). En adición, un estudio realizado con datos del Ministerio de Salud de Perú, evidenció que durante el periodo del 2010 al 2017, se han registrado 188686 casos de ERC, y que en el 2017 se encontró una prevalencia de 1.51%. Una encuesta nacional realizada a los asegurados del seguro social de salud, EsSalud (ENSSA2015), encontró que el 1.7% de asegurados mayores de 60 años reportó padecer de enfermedad renal crónica en el año 2015 (7). En contraste, un estudio realizado con datos del registro nacional de defunciones de Perú reportó que la incidencia de fallecimientos por ERC se incrementó entre el año 2003 y 2015, siendo Puno la región más afectada (4.1% de muertes por ERC). La tendencia creciente tanto en la incidencia como en la mortalidad de la ERC, dan cuenta que a pesar de contar con estrategias terapéuticas para su manejo, los pacientes son captados en estadios avanzados (9). Ante ello, se ha propuesto que la evaluación y el manejo oportuno y adecuado de los casos de ERC, principalmente en estadios tempranos (1 al 3), reducirían la morbimortalidad y las complicaciones de esta condición, evitando que esta enfermedad impacte en la calidad de vida de las personas que la padecen (1, 9, 10). En consecuencia, el Seguro Social de Salud (EsSalud) priorizó la realización de la presente guía de práctica clínica (GPC) para establecer lineamientos basados en evidencia y gestionar de la mejor manera los procesos y procedimientos asistenciales de la presente condición. Esta GPC fue realizada por la Dirección de Guías de Práctica Clínica, Farmacovigilancia y Tecnovigilancia del Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación (IETSI) de EsSalud.

The role of urea-induced osmotic diuresis and hypernatremia in a critically ill patient: case report and literature review / O papel da diurese osmótica induzida por ureia na geração de hipernatremia no paciente crítico: relato de caso e revisão da literatura

Abstract Hypernatremia is a common electrolyte problem at the intensive care setting, with a prevalence that can reach up to 25%. It is associated with a longer hospital stay and is an independent risk factor for mortality. We report a case of hypernatremia of multifactorial origin in the intensive care setting, emphasizing the role of osmotic diuresis due to excessive urea generation, an underdiagnosed and a not well-known cause of hypernatremia. This scenario may occur in patients using high doses of corticosteroids, with gastrointestinal bleeding, under diets and hyperprotein supplements, and with hypercatabolism, especially during the recovery phase of renal injury. Through the present teaching case, we discuss a clinical approach to the diagnosis of urea-induced osmotic diuresis and hypernatremia, highlighting the utility of the electrolyte-free water clearance concept in understanding the development of hypernatremia.

Resumo A hipernatremia é um distúrbio eletrolítico comum no ambiente de terapia intensiva, com uma prevalência que pode chegar a 25%. Está associada a maior tempo de internação hospitalar e é um fator de risco independente para a mortalidade. Este relato ilustra um caso de hipernatremia de origem multifatorial no ambiente de terapia intensiva. Destacaremos o papel da diurese osmótica por geração excessiva de ureia, uma causa de hipernatremia pouco conhecida e subdiagnosticada. Este cenário pode estar presente em pacientes em uso de elevadas doses de corticoides, com sangramento gastrointestinal, em uso de dietas e suplementos hiperproteicos e estado de hipercatabolismo, especialmente durante a fase de recuperação de injúria renal. A seguir, discutiremos uma abordagem clínica para o diagnóstico da hipernatremia secundária à diurese osmótica induzida por ureia, destacando a importância do conceito de clearance de água livre de eletrólitos nesse contexto.

Conservative management for patients with chronic kidney disease refusing dialysis / Tratamento conservador de paciente com doença renal crônica que renuncia à diálise

ABSTRACT Estimates suggest that 20-30% of the deaths of patients with chronic kidney disease with indication to undergo dialysis occur after refusal to continue dialysis, discontinuation of dialysis or inability to offer dialysis on account of local conditions. Contributing factors include aging, increased comorbidity associated with chronic kidney disease, and socioeconomic status. In several occasions nephrologists will intervene, but at times general practitioners or family physicians are on their own. Knowledge of the main etiologies of chronic kidney disease and the metabolic alterations and symptoms associated to end-stage renal disease is an important element in providing patients with good palliative care. This review aimed to familiarize members of multidisciplinary care teams with the metabolic alterations and symptoms arising from chronic kidney disease treated clinically without the aid of dialysis.

RESUMO Estimativas sugerem que em torno de 20% a 30% dos óbitos de pacientes com doença renal crônica em estágio dialítico decorrem de renúncia à diálise, da interrupção do tratamento dialítico ou da incapacidade de oferecer tratamento dialítico em função das condições locais. O envelhecimento populacional, o aumento das comorbidades associadas à doença renal crônica e o nível socioeconômico do país contribuem para esse cenário. Em diversas ocasiões o nefrologista estará presente para intervir ativamente, mas em outras o médico generalista ou o médico de família estarão sós. O conhecimento das principais etiologias da doença renal crônica e das alterações metabólicas e dos sintomas associados à fase terminal da doença renal são condições importantes para a evolução do paciente sem sofrimento para uma boa morte. O objetivo desta revisão é familiarizar os membros da equipe multiprofissional para o reconhecimento e conduta quanto às alterações metabólicas e aos sintomas decorrentes da doença renal crônica tratada clinicamente sem suporte dialítico.

Very low protein plus ketoacid analogs of essential aminoacids do not confirm superiority of a low protein diet to retard chronic kidney disease progression

No abstract available.

Effects of Low-Protein Diet on lipid and anthropometric profiles of patients with chronic kidney disease on conservative management / Efeitos da dieta hipoproteica sobre os perfis lipídico e antropométrico de pacientes com doença renal crônica em tratamento conservador

ABSTRACT Introduction: Chronic Kidney disease (CKD) patients have a high prevalence of cardiovascular mortality, and among the risk factors are dyslipidemia and obesity, common findings in the early stages of CKD. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of low protein diet (LPD) on the lipid and anthropometric profile in non-dialysis CKD patients. Methods: Forty CKD patients were studied (20 men, 62.7 ± 15.2 years, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) 26.16 ± 9.4 mL/min/1.73m2). LPD (0.6g/kg/d) was prescribed for six months and, biochemical and anthropometric parameters like body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and body fat mass (assessed by dual X-ray absorptiometry - DXA) were evaluated before and after six months with LPD. Results: After six months of nutritional intervention, patients presented reduction on BMI (from 28.1 ± 5.6 to 27.0 ± 5.3 Kg/m2, p = 0.001), total cholesterol (from 199.7 ± 57.1 to 176.0 ± 43.6mg/dL, p = 0.0001), LDL (from 116.2 ± 48.1 to 97.4 ± 39.1 mg/dL, p = 0,001) and uric acid (from 6.8 ± 1.4 to 6.2 ± 1.3 mg/dL, p = 0.004). In addition, GFR values were increased from 26.2 ± 9.5 to 28.9 ± 12.7mL/min (p = 0.02). The energy, proteins, cholesterol and fiber intake were reduced significantly. Conclusion: LPD prescribe to non-dialysis CKD patients for six months was able to improve some cardiovascular risk factors as overweight and plasma lipid profile, suggesting that LPD can be also an important tool for protection against cardiovascular diseases in these patients.

RESUMO Introdução: Pacientes com Doença Renal Crônica (DRC) possuem alta prevalência de mortalidade cardiovascular e, dentre os fatores de risco, encontram-se alterações no perfil lipídico e excesso de peso, que são achados comuns na DRC. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar os efeitos da dieta hipoproteica sobre o perfil antropométrico e lipídico de pacientes com DRC em tratamento conservador. Métodos: Foram estudados 40 pacientes com DRC (20 homens, 62,7 ± 15,2 anos, e Taxa de Filtração Glomerular (TFG) de 26,2 ± 9,4 mL/min/1,73m2). Os pacientes receberam prescrição de dieta hipoproteica (0,6g/kg/d) e parâmetros bioquímicos e antropométricos como índice de massa corporal (IMC), circunferência da cintura (CC) e percentual de gordura corporal (GC) avaliado por absorciometria com raio-x de dupla energia (DXA), foram analisados antes e após 6 meses de intervenção. Resultados: Os pacientes apresentaram após 6 meses, redução do IMC (de 28,1 ± 5,6 para 27,0 ± 5,3Kg/m2, p = 0,001), colesterol total (de 199,7 ± 57,1 para 176,0 ± 43,6mg/dL, p = 0,0001), LDL (de 116,2 ± 48,1 para 97,4 ± 39,1 mg/dL, p = 0,001) e ácido úrico (de 6,8 ± 1,4 para 6,2 ± 1,3 mg/dL, p = 0,004) e, aumento da TFG de 26,2 ± 9,5 para 28,9 ± 12,7mL/min (p = 0,02). Houve redução significativa na ingestão de energia e proteínas, bem como de colesterol e fibras. Conclusão: A intervenção com dieta hipoproteica para pacientes com DRC em tratamento conservador por seis meses foi capaz de melhorar alguns fatores de risco cardiovascular, como o excesso de peso e o perfil lipídico plasmático, sugerindo que a dieta hipoproteica, além de outros benefícios pode também ser importante ferramenta para a proteção de doenças cardiovasculares nesses pacientes.

Correction to: High-fat diet or low-protein diet changes peritoneal macrophages function in mice

The original version of this article [1], published on 28 June 2016, contains a mistake. The part labels in Fig. 1 are missing. The corrected version of Fig. 1 is given below.

Very low protein diet plus ketoacid analogs of essential amino acids supplement to retard chronic kidney disease progression

BACKGROUND: A very low protein diet (VLPD) with ketoacid analogs of essential amino acids (KA/EAA) administration can remarkably influence protein synthesis and metabolic disturbances of patients with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD), and may also slow the decline in renal function. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was carried out to monitor renal progression and metabolic and nutritional status among 140 patients with CKD stage III or IV. One group (n = 70) was on a low protein diet (LPD) with 0.6 g of protein intake, and another group (n = 70) was on a VLPD with 0.3 g of protein and KA/EAA supplementation of 100 mg/kg/day for 12 months. RESULTS: At 12-month follow-up, estimated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) significantly decreased from 41.6 ± 10.2 to 36.4 ± 8.8 mL/min/1.73 m2 (P 10% annually (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.42; 95% confidence interval, 0.23–0.79; P = 0.006) and significant correlations were found between using VLPD plus KA/EEA and increased GFR. CONCLUSION: VLPD supplementation with KA/EAA is associated with delayed renal progression while preserving the nutritional status in the patients with CKD. Co-administration of VLPD and KA/EAA may prove an effective alternative to conservative management of CKD.

Prurido no paciente em hemodiálise: associação com ingestão de fósforo e nível sérico de cálcio / Prurido en el paciente en hemodiálisis: asociación con ingestión de fósforo y nivel sérico de cálcio / Pruritus in hemodialysis patients: association with phosphorus intake and serum calcium level

Resumo OBJETIVO Analisar a associação entre a ocorrência do prurido e a adesão à dieta prescrita, indicadores bioquímicos da função renal e a qualidade da hemodiálise, em pacientes renais crônicos. MÉTODO Estudo transversal, realizado em uma clínica de diálise no Nordeste do Brasil, com 200 pacientes submetidos à hemodiálise, no primeiro semestre de 2015. Para análise dos dados fez-se uso da estatística inferencial, através dos testes de Qui-Quadrado e Exato de Fisher; e teste de U de Mann Whitney. RESULTADOS O prurido esteve presente em 51% da amostra, associando-se estatisticamente com o consumo de fósforo (P=0,024) e a elevação do cálcio sérico (P=0,009). CONCLUSÃO O prurido em pacientes renais crônicos submetidos à hemodiálise sofre influência da não adesão adequada à dieta prescrita, além da elevação de indicadores bioquímicos da função renal.

Resumen OBJETIVO Analizar la asociación entre la ocurrencia del prurito y la adhesión a la dieta prescrita, indicadores bioquímicos de la función renal y la calidad de la hemodiálisis, en pacientes renales crónicos. MÉTODO Estudio transversal, realizado en una clínica de diálisis en el Nordeste de Brasil, con 200 pacientes sometidos a la hemodiálisis, en el primer semestre de 2015. Para el análisis de los datos se utilizó la estadística inferencial, a través de las pruebas de Qui-Cuadrado y Exacto de Fisher; y prueba de U de Mann Whitney. RESULTADOS El prurito estuvo presente en el 51% de la muestra, asociándose estadísticamente con el consumo de fósforo (P = 0,024) y la elevación del calcio sérico (P = 0,009). CONCLUSIÓN El prurito en pacientes renales crónicos sometidos a la hemodiálisis sufre influencia de la no adhesión adecuada a la dieta prescrita, además de la elevación de indicadores bioquímicos de la función renal.

Abstract OBJECTIVE To analyze the association between the occurrence of pruritus and adherence to the prescribed diet, biochemical indicators of renal function and the quality of hemodialysis in chronic renal patients. METHOD A cross-sectional study performed at a dialysis clinic in the Northeast of Brazil, with 200 patients undergoing hemodialysis in the first half of 2015.To analyze the data, inferential statistics were used, using Chi-Square and Fisher's Exact tests; and Mann Whitney U test. RESULTS The pruritus was present in 51% of the sample, being associated statistically with phosphorus consumption (P = 0.024) and elevation of serum calcium (P = 0.009). CONCLUSION Pruritus in chronic renal patients undergoing hemodialysis is influenced by adequate nonadherence to the prescribed diet, in addition to the elevation of biochemical indicators of renal function.

Low-protein diet does not alter reproductive, biochemical, and hematological parameters in pregnant Wistar rats

The aim of this study was to investigate the reproductive, biochemical, and hematological outcomes of pregnant rats exposed to protein restriction. Wistar rat dams were fed a control normal-protein (NP, 17% protein, n=8) or a low-protein (LP, 8% protein, n=14) diet from the 1st to the 20th day of pregnancy. On the 20th day, the clinical signs of toxicity were evaluated. The pregnant rats were then anesthetized and blood samples were collected for biochemical-hematological analyses, and laparotomy was performed to evaluate reproductive parameters. No sign of toxicity, or differences (P>0.05) in body weight gain and biochemical parameters (urea, creatinine, albumin, globulin, and total protein) between NP and LP pregnant dams were observed. Similarly, hematological data, including red blood cell count, white blood cell count, hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cell distribution width (coefficient of variation), mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, % lymphocytes, absolute lymphocyte count, platelet count, and mean platelet volume were similar (P>0.05) at the end of pregnancy. Reproductive parameters (the dam-offspring relationship, ovary mass, placenta mass, number of corpora lutea, implantation index, resorption index, and the pre- and post-implantation loss rates) were also not different (P>0.05) between NP and LP pregnant dams. The present data showed that a protein-restricted diet during pregnancy did not alter reproductive, biochemical, and hematological parameters and seems not to have any toxic effect on pregnant Wistar rats.

The effect of low protein on colonic mucosal barrier in pigs / El efecto de baja proteína en la barrera mucosa colónica en cerdos

Reducing nitrogen nutrients concentration in dairy food is economic for pig industry. Here, we used finishing pig as model to investigate the effect on colon mucosal barrier and nutrients absorption after reducing crude protein (CP) in dietary from 16 % to 13 %. The results showed that crypt depth, cells, claudin-1 and E-cadherin expression level will not be changed, which implied the integrity of colon mucosal structure. Furthermore, the expressions of ASCT1, EAAT3 and SGLT1 in colon were also maintained at normal levels in 13 % CP dietary. Interestingly, the CAT1 and GLUT2 expression were increased significantly after reducing CP level to 13 %, which might be attributed to the compensatory nutrients absorption. This study implied that 13 % CP was sufficient to maintain normal colon structure and will not change intestinal morphology, which provided a basis for an ideal economic protein feed formula.

La reducción de concentración de nitrógeno en los alimentos lácteos es económicamente favorable para la industria porcina. En este trabajo se utilizó el cerdo de acabado como modelo para investigar el efecto sobre la barrera de la mucosa del colon y la absorción de nutrientes después de reducir la proteína bruta (CP) en la dieta del 16 % al 13 %. Los resultados mostraron que la profundidad de la cripta, las células globulares, el nivel de expresión de Claudin-1 y E-cadherina no cambiaron, lo que implicaría la integridad de la estructura de la mucosa del colon. Además, las expresiones de ASCT1, EAAT3 y SGLT1 en el colon también se mantuvieron en niveles normales en el 13 % de la dieta de CP. Sin embargo, la expresión de CAT1 y GLUT2 incrementó significativamente después de reducir el nivel de CP a 13 %, lo que podría atribuirse a la absorción de nutrientes compensatorios. Este estudio indicó que el CP del 13 % era suficiente para mantener la estructura normal del colon y no cambiaría la morfología intestinal, lo que proporcionó una base para una fórmula económica ideal para la alimentación con proteínas.

Gestational Protein Restriction Increases Cardiac Connexin 43 mRNA levels in male adult rat offspring / Restrição Proteica Gestacional Aumenta Níveis de RNAm de Conexina 43 no Coração de Filhotes Machos Adultos

Abstract Background: The dietary limitation during pregnancy influences the growth and development of the fetus and offspring and their health into adult life. The mechanisms underlying the adverse effects of gestational protein restriction (GPR) in the development of the offspring hearts are not well understood. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of GPR on cardiac structure in male rat offspring at day 60 after birth (d60). Methods: Pregnant Wistar rats were fed a normal-protein (NP, 17% casein) or low-protein (LP, 6% casein) diet. Blood pressure (BP) values from 60-day-old male offspring were measured by an indirect tail-cuff method using an electro sphygmomanometer. Hearts (d60) were collected for assessment of connexin 43 (Cx43) mRNA expression and morphological and morphometric analysis. Results: LP offspring showed no difference in body weight, although they were born lighter than NP offspring. BP levels were significantly higher in the LP group. We observed a significant increase in the area occupied by collagen fibers, a decrease in the number of cardiomyocytes by 104 µm2, and an increase in cardiomyocyte area associated with an increased Cx43 expression. Conclusion: GPR changes myocardial levels of Cx43 mRNA in male young adult rats, suggesting that this mechanism aims to compensate the fibrotic process by the accumulation of collagen fibers in the heart interstitium.

Resumo Fundamento: A limitação dietética durante a gravidez influencia o crescimento e desenvolvimento do feto e da prole e sua saúde na vida adulta. Os mecanismos subjacentes dos efeitos adversos da restrição proteica gestacional (RPG) no desenvolvimento dos corações da prole não são bem compreendidos. Objetivos: Avaliar os efeitos da RPG sobre a estrutura cardíaca em filhotes machos de ratas aos 60 dias após o nascimento (d60). Métodos: Ratos fêmeas Wistar grávidas foram alimentadas com uma dieta de proteína normal (PN, 17% caseína) ou de baixa proteína (BP, caseína 6%). Os valores de pressão arterial (PA) de descendentes do sexo masculino de 60 dias de idade foram medidos por meio de um método indireto de manguito de cauda usando um eletro esfigmomanômetro. Os corações (d60) foram coletados para avaliação da expressão de RNAm da conexina 43 (Cx43) e análise morfológica e morfométrica. Resultados: A prole BP não mostrou diferença no peso corporal, embora tenha nascido mais leve do que a prole PN. Os níveis de PA foram significativamente mais altos no grupo BP. Observou-se um aumento significativo na área ocupada pelas fibras colágenas, diminuição do número de cardiomiócitos em 104 µm2 e aumento da área de cardiomiócitos associada ao aumento da expressão de Cx43. Conclusão: A RPG altera os níveis miocárdicos de RNAm de Cx43 em ratos adultos jovens, sugerindo que este mecanismo visa compensar o processo fibrótico pelo acúmulo de fibras de colágeno no interstício cardíaco.

High-fat diet or low-protein diet changes peritoneal macrophages function in mice

BACKGROUND: Obesity and protein malnutrition are major food problems nowadays, affecting billions of people around the world. The nutrition transition that has occurred in recent decades is changing the nutritional profile, reducing malnutrition and increasing the percentage of obese people. The innate immune response is greatly influenced by diet, with significant changes in both malnutrition and obesity. Therefore, we investigate the effects of protein malnutrition and obesity in nutritional and immunological parameters in mice. RESULTS: Peritoneal macrophages of malnourished animals showed reduced functions of adhesion, spreading, and fungicidal activity; production of hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide were lower, reflecting changes in the innate immune response. However, the high-fat animals had macrophage functions slightly increased. CONCLUSIONS: Animals subjected to low-protein diet have immunosuppression, and animals subjected to high-fat diet increased visceral adipose tissue and the presence of an inflammatory process with increased peritoneal macrophage activity and similar systemic changes to metabolic syndrome.

Maternal malnutrition diet during lactation period leads to incomplete catch-up growth in femur of the pups at adulthood / Restricción alimentaria materna durante la lactancia conduce a la recuperación del crecimiento incompleto en el fémur de las crías en la edad adulta

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of maternal protein and energy restriction during lactation, analyzing on morphological dimensions whether there was catch-up growth through normative nutrition restored, as well as on mechanical axis of femur of the offspring at adulthood. At parturition, Wistar rat dams were randomly assigned to the following groups: 1) control group (C) - free access to a standard laboratory diet containing 23 % protein, 2) protein-energy restricted group (PER) - free access to an isoenergetic, protein-restricted diet containing 8 % protein, and 3) energy-restricted group (ER) ­ fed with restricted amounts of a standard laboratory diet. At weaning, all pups were separated of dams and received free access to a standard laboratory diet containing 23 % protein until 180 days, when the rats were anesthetized and sacrificed. The dimensions of excised pup femur were measured directly using pre-established anatomical points. Morphometric analysis of the femur (macroscopic) showed that most of the measurements in the ER and PER groups were significantly lower than in the control group, with the greatest reductions occurring in the PER group and several structural abnormalities. Our results show that protein and energy restriction during lactation leads to an incomplete catch-up growth in adulthood. The femur showed significant reduction in most of the parameters in the two treated groups, particularly the PER group, when compared to the control group.

El objetivo de este estudio fue evaluar los efectos de la restricción de la proteína materna y de energía durante la lactancia, y analizar las dimensiones morfológicas si hubo recuperación del crecimiento a través de la nutrición normativa restaurada, así como en el eje mecánico del fémur de la descendencia en la edad adulta. En el parto, las crías de ratas Wistar fueron agrupadas aleatoriamente en los siguientes grupos: 1) control (C) - con acceso libre a una dieta estándar del laboratorio, que contenía 23 % de proteínas; 2) con restricción de proteínas y energía (PER) - acceso libre a una dieta isoenergética, con restricción de proteínas, conteniendo un 8 % de éstas y 3) grupo con restricción de energía, alimentado con restricción en la cantidad de alimento de la dieta estándar del laboratorio (ER). Al destete, todas las crías fueron separadas y recibieron las dietas establecidas hasta los 180 días (d180), luego fueron anestesiadas y sacrificadas. Las mediciones de los fémures de las crías de rata fueron obtenidas por puntos anatómicos preestablecidos. El análisis morfométrico de fémur demostró que la mayoría de las mediciones en los grupos ER y PER eran significativamente menores que las del grupo control, con mayores reducciones en el grupo PER. Nuestros resultados muestran que las restricciones de energía y proteínas durante la lactancia conducen a una recuperación del crecimiento incompleto en la edad adulta. El fémur mostró una reducción significativa en la mayoría de los parámetros en los dos grupos tratados, en particular el grupo de PER, en comparación con el grupo control.

Morphological and morphometric study of the muscle fibers and neuromuscular junctions of the extensor digitorum longus in aged rats submitted to maternal protein restriction / Estudio morfológico y morfométrico de las fibras musculares y de las intersecciones neuromusculares del músculo extensor largo de los dedos de ratas de edad avanzada sometidas a la restricción proteica materna

Protein restriction implies the functional involvement of several systems and organs, including the skeletal muscle, because it is a protein reservoir in the body. This study sought to analyze the morphological and morphometric features of the muscle fibers and neuromuscular junctions (NMJs) of the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle in rats at 365 days of age, submitted to maternal protein restriction during the gestation and lactation periods. Wistar rats were divided into two groups: a Control Group - mothers fed a normal-protein diet (17 % protein) during pregnancy and lactation; and a Restricted Group - mothers fed a low-protein diet (6 % protein) during pregnancy and lactation. The pups were kept with the mother throughout the lactation period (21 days), after which the offspring received a normal protein diet until 365 days of age. Histological (HE) and histoenzymological (NADH-TR) studies were conducted on the muscle fibers. The muscle was subjected to Nonspecific Esterase reaction to stain the Neuromuscular Junctions. Regarding the animals from the restricted group: the histologic analysis of the muscle fibers showed the presence of centralized nuclei and a diminished area; the histoenzymological study showed the different types of muscle fibers were randomly distributed in the EDL muscle and the area of the Type IIa muscle fiber was smaller; the ultrastructural study revealed disorganization of the Z line, and the presence of lipid droplets and vacuoles containing myelin figures in subsarcolemmal and intramiofibrilar regions; while the analysis of the NMJs exhibited no significant differences between the groups. Protein restriction in the pregnancy and lactation period may have affected the development of skeletal muscle, producing a permanent muscle-fiber deficit in the EDL muscle of the offspring.

La restricción proteica implica compromiso funcional de diversos sistemas y órganos, entre ellos, el músculo estriado esquelético, por ser una reserva de proteína del organismo. De esa forma, el presente trabajo procuró analizar las características morfológicas y morfométricas de las fibras musculares y de las intersecciones neuromusculares (JNMs) del músculo extensor largo de los dedos (EDL) en ratas de 365 días de edad, sometidas a restricción proteica materna durante los periodos de gestación y lactancia. Las ratas Wistar fueron separadas en dos grupos: El grupo Control - madres alimentadas durante la gestación y lactancia con ración normoproteica (17 % de proteína) y Grupo con restricción ­ madres alimentadas durante la gestación y lactancia con ración hipoproteica (6 % de proteína). Las crías permanecieron con la madre durante todo el periodo de lactancia (21 días) y después de este periodo la prole recibió ración normoproteica hasta los 365 días de edad. Se realizó un estudio histológico (HE) e histoenzimológico (NADH-TR) de las fibras musculares. Para la marcación de las JNMs, el músculo fue sometido a la reacción de Esterasa Inespecífica. El análisis histológico de las fibras musculares de los animales del Grupo con restricción mostró la presencia de núcleos centralizados y una disminución del área en el grupo con restricción. En el estudio histoenzimológico, el músculo EDL presentó una distribución aleatoria de los diferentes tipos de fibras musculares y el área de las fibras musculares del tipo IIa fue menor en el grupo con restricción. En relación al estudio ultraestructural, en los animales del grupo con restricción se observó desorganización de la línea Z, presencia de pequeñas gotas de lípidos y vacuolas que abrigaban figuras de mielina en las regiones subsarcolemal e intramiofibrilar. En el análisis de las JNMs no hubo diferencias significativas. La restricción proteica impuesta en el periodo de gestación y lactancia puede haber afectado el desarrollo del músculo esquelético, produciendo un déficit permanente en las fibras musculares del músculo EDL de la prole.

Maternal protein restriction during lactation modulated the expression and activity of rat offspring hepatic CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2B1, CYP2B2, and CYP2E1 during development

Early nutrition plays a long-term role in the predisposition to chronic diseases and influences the metabolism of several drugs. This may happen through cytochromes P450 (CYPs) regulation, which are the main enzymes responsible for the metabolism of xenobiotics. Here, we analyzed the effects of maternal protein restriction (MPR) on the expression and activity of hepatic offspring’s CYPs during 90 days after birth, using Wistar rats as a mammal model. Hepatic CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP2B1, CYP2B2 and CYP2E1 mRNA and protein expression, and associated catalytic activities (ECOD, EROD, MROD, BROD, PROD and PNPH) were evaluated in 15-, 30-, 60-, and 90-day-old offspring from dams fed with either a 0% protein (MPR groups) or a standard diet (C groups) during the 10 first days of lactation. Results showed that most CYP genes were induced in 60- and 90-day-old MPR offspring. The inductions detected in MPR60 and MPR90 were of 5.0- and 2.0-fold (CYP1A2), 3.7- and 2.0-fold (CYP2B2) and 9.8- and 5.8– fold (CYP2E1), respectively, and a 3.8-fold increase of CYP2B1 in MPR90. No major alterations were detected in CYP protein expression. The most relevant CYP catalytic activities’ alterations were observed in EROD, BROD and PNPH. Nevertheless, they did not follow the same pattern observed for mRNA expression, except for an induction of EROD in MPR90 (3.5-fold) and of PNPH in MPR60 (2.2-fold). Together, these results suggest that MPR during lactation was capable of altering the expression and activity of the hepatic CYP enzymes evaluated in the offspring along development.

The effects of maternal low protein and estrogen on sexual behavior and testicular maturation in male rats / Efectos de niveles maternos bajos de estrógeno y proteína sobre el comportamiento sexual y maduración testicular en ratas macho

In recent years, disorders related to the development and function of the male reproductive tract has increased, thus generating a surprising decrease in semen volume and sperm count. We examined the effects of low protein and estrogen on sexual behavior and testicular maturation in male rats. We also examined FSH, LH and testosterone levels and histological damage of testis tissue. The male rats were subjected to standard long-term treatment with estradiol by oral and paranteral delivery. The number of mounts, copulatory efficiency and ejaculation latencies for the paranteral protein diet (PPD) group was significantly lower than those in a group nourished with a low protein diet (LPD) and oral protein diet (OPD) groups (P<0.05). Testes and epididymis sections were examined by four grades, according to the level of damage of epithelium in the testes and epididymis. Higher histological damage was also detected in the PPD group. In conclusion, the present study confirmed that unwanted estrogen effects were higher in the paranteral administered group on examination of sexual behavior and histological damage of epithelium in the testes and epididymis of male rats.

En los últimos años, los trastornos relacionados con el desarrollo y la función del tracto reproductivo masculino han aumentado, lo que genera una disminución importante en el volumen de semen y el conteo de espermatozoides. Se examinaron los efectos de niveles bajos en proteínas y estrógeno en el comportamiento sexual y la maduración testicular en ratas macho. También se examinaron FSH, LH y los niveles de testosterona y el daño histológico de tejido testicular. Las ratas macho fueron sometidas al tratamiento y administración estándar a largo plazo con estradiol por vias oral y parenteral. El número de montajes, eficiencia de copulación y latencias de eyaculación para el grupo de dieta de proteínas parenteral (DPP) fue significativamente menor que los del grupo con una dieta baja en proteínas (PBD) y de proteína oral baja (POB) grupos (P<0,05). Fueron examinados los testículos y epidídimo de acuerdo a cuatro grados, en relación al nivel de daño del epitelio en los testículos y epidídimo. También se detectó un mayor daño histológico en el grupo DPP. En conclusión, se confirma que los efectos no deseados del estrógeno fueron mayores en el grupo con administración parenteral en el examen de conducta sexual y en el daño histológico del epitelio en los testículos y el epidídimo de ratas macho.