Researchers have discovered that the compound C75 profoundly suppresses appetite by altering brain messengers in mice. This effect could lead to new ways to intervene in obesity-related diseases.
Linoleic acid significantly induced mRNA transcripts of inflammatory genes, while oleic acid showed protective effects on arterial endothelial cells. This study highlights the importance of plasma fatty acid concentrations in vascular disease research.
Research suggests a link between genetic variation in the ADH2 gene and Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) prevalence. The study found that individuals with the ADH2*2 allele had a lower risk of FAS, suggesting potential protection against fetal alcohol exposure.
Researchers at Columbia University Irving Medical Center used PET scanning to assess abnormal energy metabolism in the hearts of young patients with fatty acid metabolism disorders. They found that affected children have a diminished capacity to use fatty acids and experience metabolic crises if untreated.
The study found that older Inuits had higher concentrations of n-3 fatty acids, which were associated with increased HDL cholesterol and reduced triacylglycerols. The Inuit diet is rich in saturated fat, but the authors suggest that n-3 fatty acids may change LDL cholesterol composition.
Researchers found that consuming pork with a higher proportion of polyunsaturated fats led to significant reductions in serum total cholesterol (10%) and LDL cholesterol (24%) in young women. The modified pork diet also showed no adverse effects on glucose, insulin, or triacylglycerol levels.
A study of 79,839 middle-aged women found that higher consumption of fish and n3 polyunsaturated fatty acids was linked to a lower risk of thrombotic stroke. Women who ate fish more frequently had a significant reduction in stroke risk, with the greatest benefit seen among those who didn't take aspirin regularly.
A recent study suggests that trans fatty acids, commonly found in baked goods and fried foods, may contribute to an increased risk of heart disease. The researchers found that diets high in trans fats led to higher triglyceride levels and lower HDL cholesterol.
Lehman et al. show that PGC-1 is limiting for mitochondrial proliferation in cardiac muscle, directing changes in mitochondrial population across cells. Overexpressing PGC-1 increases fatty acid oxidation capacity and coupled OxPhos, but constitutive expression leads to dilated cardiomyopathy.
Postmenopausal women who took n-3 fatty acid-enriched supplements experienced a 26% reduction in serum triglycerides, while those not taking HRT saw a 36% decrease. This suggests that fish-oil therapy may benefit postmenopausal women regardless of hormone replacement therapy use.
The proposed food label changes could lead to a reduction in heart disease deaths, with estimated annual savings of $25 billion to $59 billion in healthcare costs. Manufacturers are expected to reformulate products in response to consumer demand for lower trans fat foods.
A multicenter clinical trial has found that premature infant formula containing docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (AA) improves visual development in preterm infants. The study involved 470 premature infants who received either DHA- and AA- fortified formula or standard premature infant formula.
A new study reveals that phytoplankton quality, rather than quantity, is a critical factor in supporting thriving fish populations and clear water in lake ecosystems. Phytoplankton with high concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids support higher zooplankton growth rates, leading to positive effects on both ends of the food chain.
A recent study suggests that consuming less trans fat and increasing magnesium, vitamin B6, and B12 intake can help prevent artery calcification. Researchers found that adequate magnesium levels can mitigate the risk of calcified ridges in arteries, which can block blood flow.
Researchers discovered that high levels of alcohol during late fetal development kill Purkinje cells, which act to filter and synthesize information. Alcohol deprives these cells of Glial Derived Neurotrophic Factor (GDNF), necessary for their survival.
Scientists at Millennium and the Whitehead Institute discovered a novel protein FATP4 that plays a role in transporting fatty acid molecules from the intestine into the body. Inhibiting its function may provide new approaches to treating obesity.
Researchers link Fas and FasL interaction to immune-privilege in the eye, affecting age-related macular degeneration. Deficiency of Fas or FasL leads to increased growth of new retinal vessels.
A CSIRO study found that margarines high in polyunsaturated fats and low in trans fatty acids reduce LDL cholesterol by 11-15%, corresponding to a 20-30% fall in heart disease risk. The study also showed that these margarines can produce a greater fall in blood LDL-cholesterol than other types of margarine.
The Carnegie/Brookhaven team successfully directed interconversions of enzymes that modify plant fatty acids, revealing the chemical mechanisms responsible for their diversity. They achieved this through making as few as six amino acid changes, paving the way for the creation of novel synthetic enzymes.
Researchers have found that fatty acids from various plants and fungi can prevent MS-like symptoms in animal models. Dr Harbige's team thinks certain fatty acids work by dampening the immune system's damaging effects, but more rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm.
A diet rich in seafood, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid, has been shown to reduce the production of leukotriene B4, a molecule that promotes inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis patients. This reduction leads to less inflammatory effects and a decrease in neutrophil migration and release of damaging molecules.
A new international study has found a significant association between high levels of trans fatty acids and breast cancer in European women. The research suggests that reducing trans fatty acid consumption through dietary changes may help protect against breast cancer development.
The American Heart Association recommends using oils in their natural state for cooking, and choosing softer margarines over harder ones for spreads. New guidelines suggest that these choices can help lower total fat intake and reduce trans fatty acid consumption.
University of Illinois food scientists create water-resistant, plastic-like containers using zein and fatty acids, which can be naturally decomposed. The new process produces biodegradable plastics from corn gluten meal, addressing the global demand for eco-friendly packaging materials.
Children with FAS have behavioral and learning problems in addition to brain damage and facial abnormalities. Researchers found that children with FAS can focus on tasks but struggle with using new information and switching attention, which may explain why drugs like Ritalin are ineffective for this group.
The study highlights the devastating life path of many FAS adults, experiencing mental health problems, trouble with the law, and difficulties in school. Protective factors identified include stable living environments, early diagnosis, and access to services.