Position Statement: The International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN) presents this position based on a critical examination of the literature surrounding the effects of long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (ω-3 PUFA) supplementation on exercise performance, recovery, and brain health. This position stand is intended to provide a scientific foundation for athletes, dietitians, trainers, and other practitioners regarding the effects of supplemental ω-3 PUFA in healthy and athletic populations. The following conclusions represent the official position of the ISSN: Athletes may be at a higher risk for ω-3 PUFA insufficiency.Diets rich in ω-3 PUFA, including supplements, are effective strategies for increasing ω-3 PUFA levels.ω-3 PUFA supplementation, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has been shown to enhance endurance capacity and cardiovascular function during aerobic-type exercise.ω-3 PUFA supplementation may not confer a muscle hypertrophic benefit in young adults.ω-3 PUFA supplementation in combination with resistance training may improve strength in a dose- and duration-dependent manner.ω-3 PUFA supplementation may decrease subjective measures of muscle soreness following intense exercise.ω-3 PUFA supplementation can positively affect various immune cell responses in athletic populations.Prophylactic ω-3 PUFA supplementation may offer neuroprotective benefits in athletes exposed to repeated head impacts.ω-3 PUFA supplementation is associated with improved sleep quality.ω-3 PUFA are classified as prebiotics; however, studies on the gut microbiome and gut health in athletes are currently lacking.

Protectin D1 (PD1) derived from docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has shown promise in resolving inflammation. Mast cells are critical drivers of allergic inflammation, releasing inflammatory mediators such as histamine and pro-inflammatory cytokines. This study assesses the effectiveness of PD1 in counteracting mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation. In vivo, two well-established mouse models were employed: IgE-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) and ovalbumin-induced active systemic anaphylaxis (ASA). The oral administration of PD1 markedly suppressed PCA reactions, including ear swelling, plasma extravasation of Evans blue and mast cell degranulation. In the ASA model, oral PD1 administration dose-dependently alleviated hypothermia and reduced elevated serum levels of IgE, histamine, and IL-4. Mechanistic insights were gained through studies in the RBL-2H3 and primary mast cells derived from mouse bone marrow, where PD1 inhibited IgE-mediated degranulation and decreased intracellular calcium influx by blocking FcεRⅠ signaling pathways involving Lyn, Fyn, and Syk kinases. Additionally, PD1 suppressed pro-inflammatory cytokine production by inhibiting the activity of critical transcription factor; nuclear factor-κB. These findings suggest that PD1, a bioactive lipid derived from DHA, is a very promising therapeutic candidate for mast cell-derived allergic inflammation.

Starfish (Asterias amurensis) are important predators in the marine benthic environment, preying on mollusks and echinoderms. Their waste also causes significant environmental harm. However, starfish contain a variety of nutrients and biologically active compounds that require further investigation. To maintain marine ecosystems and address environmental waste, lipids were extracted from A. amurensis skin, and their immune-enhancing effects were evaluated in cyclophosphamide (CY)- induced immunosuppressive mice. A. amurensis lipids were combined with PEG 6000 (AA-PEG), which contains a high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs, 49.44%), primarily C20:5n3. Mice were administered various dosages of AA-PEG, ranging from 50 to 200 mg/kg body weight (BW) via oral delivery and CY injection. Results revealed that AA-PEG at 150 mg/kg BW promoted the recovery of cellular immune function in both splenocytes from the spleen and peritoneal macrophages, similar to the normal group. Administration of AA-PEG (50-150 mg/kg BW) gradually raised the spleen index (2.2-2.5 mg/g) and natural killer (NK) cell activity (91-102%), and enhanced ConA- or LPS-stimulated splenocyte proliferation. Subsets of T -lymphocytes (CD4 + and CD8+) does-dependently increased by AA-PEG. The phagocytic capacity (58-82%) and proliferation (69-98%) of peritoneal macrophages, which had been reduced by CY, were restored with AA-PEG. AA-PEG boosts immunity by promoting nitric oxide (NO) generation (84-103%). Furthermore, AA-PEG has been shown to increase immune-related cytokines in splenocytes and peritoneal macrophages, indicating a potential enhancement of Th1 and Th2 activity. These results suggest that AA-PEG restored the immune function of immunosuppressed mice and could be used as an effective immunomodulatory agent, which may play a crucial role in maintaining environmental sustainability.

Ovarian cancer (OC), a leading cause of gynecological cancer mortality, is frequently detected at advanced stages due to asymptomatic early progression. This study investigates plasma-based untargeted metabolomics for identifying biomarkers to screen and differentiate ovarian tumors (OT). Plasma samples from OC, benign ovarian tumors (BOT), and healthy controls (HC) were analyzed. Samples were randomized into train and test sets, with differential metabolites screened via two-tailed Student's t-test and partial least squares discriminant analysis. ROC models evaluated discriminatory capacity. Key metabolites demonstrated high predictive value: TMAO and hippuric acid distinguished OT from HC (AUC > 0.95), while linoleic acid, alpha-linolenic acid, and arachidonic acid (AUC > 0.9) further supported OT screening. Kynurenine differentiated OC from BOT (AUC = 0.808). Reduced levels of specific lysophosphatidylcholines (LPC (17:0/0:0), LPC (15:0/0:0)) also distinguished OT from HC (AUC = 0.771-0.89). These findings suggest plasma metabolomics holds promise for noninvasive biomarker discovery in OT screening and distinguishing between malignant and benign cases, though further validation of metabolite quantification is warranted prior to clinical application.

Omega-3 fatty acids play a significant role in immunomodulation, with nutrigenomic approaches highlighting their impact on gene expression related to immune responses. Research indicates that omega-3 fatty acids can modulate inflammatory pathways, potentially reducing chronic inflammation and enhancing immune function. This review discusses the intersection of nutrigenomics and nutriepigenomics, focusing on how omega-3 fatty acids influence gene expression, immune function, and overall health. The immune system is a complex network responsible for defending the body against pathogens and maintaining internal balance. Comprised of innate and adaptive immunity, the system involves various cells, tissues, and organs working together to combat infections and prevent diseases. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), play a significant role in modulating the immune system. These fatty acids influence immune cell function, membrane fluidity, and signaling processes, enhancing immune responses and reducing inflammation. Furthermore, EPA and DHA affect several signaling pathways, reducing the expression of proinflammatory cytokines and inhibiting nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) activation, a critical transcription factor in the inflammatory response. Additionally, they activate PPAR-γ, further diminishing inflammatory gene expression. As precursors to specialized proresolving lipid mediators, EPA and DHA help shift the lipid mediator profile from proinflammatory to antiinflammatory derivatives, thus aiding in the resolution of inflammation.

Osteomyelitis, characterized by bone inflammation and infection, poses a significant global health burden. This Mendelian randomization (MR) study investigates the causal relationship between polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and osteomyelitis risk. By using GWAS data from 114,999 individuals, we explore specific PUFAs and their genetic variations using Inverse variance weighted (IVW), MR-Egger and weighted median methods. The results reveal a suggestive association between genetically predicted higher docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and omega-6 levels with increased osteomyelitis risk. Conversely, a negative association is found for the omega-6:3 ratio. Linoleic acid, omega-3, and omega-6 show no significant associations. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy analyses support result robustness, indicating minimal confounding effects. Sensitivity analyses confirm the stability of findings. Our MR analysis challenges the presumed protective role of omega-3 in osteomyelitis, suggesting a nuanced relationship where DHA may pose an increased risk. The study underscores the complexity of fatty acid interactions influenced by genetic variability and dietary nuances. Further research is essential to unravel underlying mechanisms and translate these findings into actionable strategies for osteomyelitis prevention and treatment.

Postoperative wound infections remain a significant challenge in gastrointestinal surgery, with substantial implications for prolonged hospital stays and healthcare costs. Immunonutrition with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) offers potential preventive benefits through modulation of inflammatory responses. This study aimed to explore the impact of enteral nutritional enriched with n-3 PUFAs on wound infection in patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery.

A thorough search was carried out, from databases to December 2023, across Cochrane Library, Embase, CNKI, Google Scholar, Wanfang, and PubMed on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the impacts of enteral nutritional enriched with n-3 PUFAs for treatment of patients with gastrointestinal surgery. Two independent researchers conducted literature screening, data extraction, and quality assessments. The primary outcome measures were wound infection and complications. Statistical analysis was conducted in Stata 17.0 and RevMan 5.4 software.

Fifteen RCTs involving 1442 patients who underwent gastrointestinal surgery were included. The analysis revealed the application of enteral nutritional enriched with n-3 PUFAs markedly decreased the occurrence of complications (odds ratio [OR] = 0.56, 95 % confidence intervals [CI]: 0.44-0.71, P < 0.001) and wound infection (OR = 0.68, 95 %CI: 0.47-0.98, P = 0.04) in patients who underwent gastrointestinal surgery.

This study demonstrates that postoperative support with enteral nutritional enriched with n-3 PUFAs can effectively decrease the occurrence of wound infections and postoperative complications following gastrointestinal surgery. These findings suggest that n-3 PUFAs supplementation should be considered as a standard component of perioperative nutritional protocols to improve surgical outcomes in patients undergoing gastrointestinal procedures.

Obesity is linked to poorly controlled asthma and may impair bronchodilator response. This study examines dietary factors affecting asthma symptoms, control, and lung function.

In a multi-center, cross-sectional study of 102 individuals with obesity and poorly controlled asthma, we assessed dietary intake (Arizona Food Frequency Questionnaire), asthma symptoms and control (standardized questionnaires), and lung function (spirometry and bronchodilator response). Correlations between omega-3 and -6 fatty acids with asthma outcomes and lung function were examined using Pearson correlations and multivariate regression.

Median age was 56 (IQR 41-64) years, and median BMI was 37 (35-42) kg/m2. Fifty-four percent were African American and 75 % were female. Median total calorie intake was 2029 (1199-3837) kcal, median total omega-3 intake was 1.07 (0.63-2.04) g, and median omega-6 intake was 24.54 (13.31-45.35) g. No significant relationship was found between fatty acid intake and asthma symptoms, asthma control, or baseline lung function. However, percent bronchodilator response was positively correlated with omega-3 fatty acids (r = 0.273, p = 0.0074). After adjusting for caloric intake, for every 1 g increase in omega-3 intake, there was a 4 % increase in percent bronchodilator response.

Dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids may influence bronchodilator response in patients with poorly controlled asthma and obesity. Interventions to improve overall dietary quality, such as increased omega-3 intake, may improve medication response in people with obesity and poorly controlled asthma. Future research is needed to better understand this association and determine if additional dietary factors might affect medication responses.

Zika virus (ZIKV) is an emerging flavivirus that may cause innate microcephaly or neurological disturbances. Yet no antiviral has been approved by FDA against ZIKV infection. It was shown that some unsaturated fatty acids could inactivate enveloped viruses including SARS-CoV-2. However, studies investigating the effect of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) on ZIKV infection are lacking. This study aims to evaluate the antiviral effect of EPA against ZIKV and other enveloped viruses.

We first explored the toxicities of EPA in vitro and in vivo. Then we examined the antiviral effect of EPA against ZIKV via cell-based immunodetection, qRT-PCR, Western blotting, and so on. To uncover its antiviral mechanism, we performed assays for virus binding, adsorption and entry, and time-of-addition. RNase digestion and ZIKV NS2B-NS3 protease inhibition assays were also adopted. Finally, we detected its effects on dengue virus (DENV)-2, herpes simplex virus (HSV)-1 and influenza A virus via MTT, Western blotting and qRT-PCR assays.

EPA was found to inhibit ZIKV infection in vitro without causing cytotoxicities. EPA exhibited antiviral activity in the early stages of the ZIKV life cycle quickly. Mechanistic experiments showed that EPA disrupted the membrane integrity of viral particles, leading to the release of viral RNA, together with the interruption of ZIKV from binding, adsorption and entry, and ultimately the inhibition of viral proliferation. Furthermore, EPA exerted antiviral effects against DENV-2, HSV-1, and influenza virus, in a dose-dependent manner.

These findings suggest that EPA is a promising broad-spectrum antiviral drug candidate.

Most of the current treatment modalities for sickle hemoglobinopathy are disease-modifying rather than curative. Therefore, there is a need for effective treatment of complications of sickle cell disease (SCD) that impair quality of life. This need drives the evaluation of preclinical therapeutics in search of new treatment modalities.

Interventions are likely to progress from research to clinical practice, their potential impact, and future directions in SCD care: HbF inducers, pyruvate kinase activators, anti-selectin P monoclonal antibodies, allosteric Hb modifiers, proactive treatment of cerebral artery conditional blood velocity, multimodal, and gene therapy. Established treatment modalities (e.g with hydroxyurea) are not included because these have advanced well beyond the preclinical stage of therapeutics. Information dated 2025 backward was obtained from Medline, PubMed, and other public sources.

Places for the conduct of preclinical studies ought to include areas of high SCD prevalence. Limited resources currently hinder universal accessibility of curative SCD therapies in these places. The recent approval of non-viral gene therapy for SCD and the number of preclinical therapeutics in development bring realistic expectation that curative and disease-modifying interventions, such as multimodal therapy and proactive treatment of cerebral artery conditional blood velocity to prevent stroke, will become standard care.

Aging is often characterized by chronic inflammation, immune system dysregulation, and cellular senescence with chronically elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines. These small glycoproteins are mainly secreted by immune cells, mediating intercellular communication and immune system modulation through inflammatory signaling. Their pro- and anti-inflammatory effects make them a noteworthy research topic as well as a promising ally in combating inflammation and the aging process. Cytokines exert a synergistic role in aging and disease and may prove useful biomarkers of tissue-specific dysregulation, disease diagnosis and monitoring, presenting potential therapeutic options as anti-inflammatory and senolytic medications. In this review, we address the cellular and molecular mechanisms implicating cytokines in the aging process and related diseases, highlighting their biomarker potential. We focus on the current therapeutic strategies, including specific pharmaceutical agents, supplements, a balanced diet, and healthy habits such as exercise, stress management, and caloric restriction.

Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) refers to muscle injuries following exercises involving repetitive eccentric muscle contractions. The resultant inflammation and muscle protein leakage into the circulation lead to muscle pain and strength deficit, compromising athletic performance. This narrative review summarizes the current evidence on the effect and mechanism of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFA) in potentially mitigating EIMD. Several studies suggested n-3 PUFA's role in alleviating delayed-onset muscle soreness, particularly in untrained individuals and those receiving higher doses of continuous supplementation. However, its impact on muscle strength attenuation and the reduction of performance post-exercise remains inconclusive. Also unclear are n-3 PUFA's effects on the reduction of circulating pro-inflammatory substances and muscle proteins. One of the possible mechanisms is its anti-inflammatory property, which involves its ability to incorporate into cell membranes and displace prostaglandin precursor. n-3 PUFA also decreases cyclooxygenase production and can be converted into specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs), further reducing inflammation. Moreover, n-3 PUFA's incorporation into cell membranes alters cell membrane properties, diminishing protein release during muscle breakdown. n-3 PUFA exhibits analgesic effects through SPM-induced modulation of receptors and ion channels, reducing both peripheral and central sensitization. n-3 PUFA also diminishes mitochondrial free radical production and accelerates nerve conduction, thereby improving voluntary muscle activation.

Tibetan pigs, native to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, have adapted over millennia to extreme conditions such as low oxygen, harsh cold, and high UV radiation, impacting their muscle characteristics and digestive tract microbiota. The quality of pork from Tibetan pigs (TP) and black pigs (BP) is influenced by various factors, including genetics, diet, and environmental adaptation. However, the specific influence of digestive tract microbiota metabolites on muscle traits remains poorly understood. Our goal was to correlate omic variations with meat quality traits and identify potential biomarkers predictive of superior meat quality, elucidate the regulatory effects of digestive tract microbial metabolites on Tibetan pig muscle characteristics, and reveal the genetic and nutritional mechanisms that promote adaptation to extreme environmental conditions.

This analysis encompassed metabolomic profiling of the entire digestive tract-including the stomach, jejunum, cecum, colon, and rectum-as well as histological, amino acid, fatty acid composition, and transcriptomic assessments of the longissimus dorsi muscle tissues to investigate how digestive tract microbial metabolites influence muscle adaptation to high altitudes.

Analyses revealed that Tibetan pig muscles contain smaller, more oxidative fibers enriched with flavor-enhancing amino acids. This was accompanied by a more favorable n-6/n-3 fatty acid ratio. Distinct patterns of microbial metabolites were observed in the digestive tract, influencing protein digestion and purine metabolism, and correlating with muscle glycine levels. Transcriptomic data showed varied gene expression in metabolic pathways related to salivary and pancreatic secretion, as well as carbohydrate and fatty acid metabolism. Integrated multi-omics approaches linked stomach metabolism, particularly through bile secretion pathways influenced by acetylcholine, to muscle functionality, highlighting the important role played by the ATP1B4 gene in enabling muscle physiology in Tibetan pigs.

This study highlights the importance of targeted dietary interventions in improving meat quality for specific pig breeds. It also provides a theoretical foundation for precision agriculture strategies aimed at enhancing the meat quality of both TP and BP pigs.

The dietary fat supply might interact with the intestinal microbiota via different mechanisms. Research on this topic, however, remains scarce in cats. For this reason, the present study was conducted to evaluate the impact of the fat concentration and fatty acid profile in the diet on the fecal microbiota of healthy cats.

A low-fat basal diet was fed to ten healthy adult cats. The diet was offered without or with the daily addition of 0.5 g or 1 g of sunflower oil, fish oil or lard per kg body weight of the cats, using a randomized cross-over design. Each feeding period lasted for 21 days, and the fecal samples were collected on the last days of each period. The fecal microbiota was analyzed by 16S rDNA sequencing. Additionally, microbial metabolites (short-chain fatty acids, lactate, ammonium, biogenic amines) were measured in the fecal samples.

The dietary treatment had no impact on the alpha-diversity of the fecal microbiota or on the relative abundance of bacterial phyla in the samples. Only a few changes were observed in the relative abundance of bacterial genera and the concentrations of microbial metabolites in the feces, probably being of minor physiological relevance.

The balanced intestinal microbiota of cats seems to be relatively resistant to moderate variations in the dietary fat supply over a short feeding period. Longer-term treatments and higher dietary fat levels should be evaluated in future studies to further clarify the relevance of fat intake for the feline gut microbiome.

Cancer is a disease influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, with dietary lipids being a significant contributing factor. This review summarizes the role of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in the mechanism of tumor occurrence and development, and elucidate the role of PUFAs in tumor treatment.

PUFAs exert their impact on cancer through altering lipid composition in cell membranes, interacting with cell membrane lipid receptors, directly modulating gene expression in the cell nucleus, and participating in the metabolism of lipid mediators. Most omega-3 PUFAs are believed to inhibit cell proliferation, promote cancer cell death, suppress cancer metastasis, alter energy metabolism, inhibit tumor microenvironment inflammation, and regulate immune responses involving macrophages, T cells, NK cells, and others. However, certain omega-6 PUFAs exhibit weaker anti-tumor effects and may even promote tumor development, such as by fostering inflammatory tumor microenvironment and enhancing tumor cell proliferation. PUFAs play important roles in hallmarks of cancer including tumor cell proliferation, cell death, migration and invasion, energy metabolism remodeling, epigenetics, and immunity. These findings provide insights into the mechanisms of cancer development and offers options for dietary management of cancer.

The human immune system plays a crucial role in defending the body against various infections, viruses, and external substances, contributing to overall well-being. However, an imbalance in the immune system can lead to increased susceptibility to infections, impacting overall health. Preclinical investigations suggest the potential application of Portulaca oleracea L. and Perilla frutescens var. japonica Hara seed complex extract (PPCE) as a potent biological response modifier in terms of immunity. However, the safety and efficacy of PPCE in boosting immune function have not been investigated clinically. The present study aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of PPCE on the immune system in healthy adults. An 8-week randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled cross-over clinical trial was adopted for the study. Study participants were administered either 1080 mg day-1 of a PPCE supplement or a placebo. The study assessed the Natural Killer (NK) cell activity as the primary outcome measure. Serum concentrations of cytokines (IL-6, IL-12, IFN-γ, TNF-α) and a questionnaire-based assessment of upper airway infection were the secondary outcomes. At the end of the 8 weeks, NK cell activity significantly improved in the PPCE group compared to the placebo group (p < 0.05). Similarly, the concentrations of IFN-γ and IL-12 significantly increased (p < 0.05). However, there were no significant differences between the two groups in the cytokines IL-6 and TNF-α. Additionally, no adverse effects were observed during the trial. These findings suggest that PPCE supplementation is safe and potentially benefits immune stimulation by enhancing NK cell activity and inducing the production of Th-1 type cell-stimulating cytokines like IL-12 in healthy individuals.

Hepatic macrophages respond to various microenvironmental signals and play a central role in maintaining hepatic homeostasis, dysregulation of which leads to various liver diseases. Fatty acid-binding protein 7 (FABP7), an intracellular lipid chaperone for polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), is highly expressed in liver macrophages. However, the mechanisms by which FABP7 regulates hepatic macrophage activation remain unclear. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the effects of FABP7 on the functions of hepatic macrophages in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and liver fibrosis models. In this study, we found that FABP7-deficient macrophages exhibited impaired M2 polarization, which reduced the fibrotic response of myofibroblasts and CD4+ T-cell infiltration into the liver tissues in a carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatic fibrosis model. In vitro, FABP7-deficient macrophages exhibited decreased levels of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ and its target genes, including C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL)-17 and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β), compared to the wild-type (WT) macrophages post-interleukin (IL)-4 stimulation. However, these effects were inhibited by a PPARγ inhibitor. IL-4-stimulated WT macrophages also promoted CD4+ T-cell migration and hepatic fibroblast (TWNT-1 hepatic stellate cell [HSC]) activation, indicated by increased mRNA levels of actin alpha 2, smooth muscle (ACTA2), and collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1); however, these effects were inhibited in FABP7-deficient macrophages. Overall, FABP7 in hepatic macrophages modulated the crosstalk between hepatic fibroblasts and T cells by regulating M2 polarization. Therefore, regulation of hepatic macrophage function by FABP7 is a potential therapeutic target for liver fibrosis.

Extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP) is a UVA-based phototherapy of whole blood and well established as a first line or combination therapy for the treatment of cutaneous T-cell lymphoma, systemic sclerosis, graft-versus-host disease and is used to control organ transplant rejection. While the proapoptotic activity on activated T-cells is evident, the clinical efficacy of this treatment also appears to be based on other yet unknown mechanisms. In this study, we aimed to identify novel mechanisms of ECP regardless of the patient's background situation.

To better understand the immediate consequences of ECP, we analyzed blood plasma of patients with different ECP indications immediately before and after treatment with regard to proteins and lipid mediators.

While proteome profiling identified substantial inter-individual differences in the protein composition, no significant alteration was detectable upon treatment. In contrast, several fatty acids and lipid mediators were found to be significantly altered by ECP. Remarkably, upregulated lipid mediators including polyunsaturated fatty acids, 12-HEPE and 13-OxoODE have been described to be anti-inflammatory, while the downregulated molecules sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and stearic acid are potent pro-inflammatory mediators. A selective sphingosine-1-phosphate-1 receptor (S1P1) modulator AUY954, which decreases S1P1 and experimentally reduces transplant rejection in vivo, showed greater anti-proliferative activity in human lung fibroblasts from COPD patients compared to normal lung fibroblasts, confirming that this pathway may be important in ECP and its mode of action.

In conclusion, we suggest that the ECP-induced changes in lipid mediators may contribute to the remarkable anti-inflammatory effects of the treatment. Depending on their lipid status, patients may benefit from novel treatment regimens combining ECP with lipid modulators. This could be used for the prevention of transplant organ rejection, the treatment of acute or chronic GvHD or transplant organ rejection and the long-term treatment of various skin diseases. This study uncovers novel mechanisms of ECP, that can be used to establish clinically relevant lipid profiles of patients to support patient stratification, predictive or prognostic purposes and thus personalized medical care in the framework of PPPM practice. A combination with S1P modulators may therefore have beneficial effects.

Schizophrenia, a complex psychiatric disorder, presents with multifaceted symptoms and important challenges in treatment, primarily due to its pathophysiological complexity, which involves oxidative stress and aberrant iron metabolism. Recent insights into ferroptosis, a unique form of iron‑dependent cell death characterized by lipid peroxidation and antioxidant system failures, open new avenues for understanding the neurobiological foundation of schizophrenia. The present review explores the interplay between ferroptosis and schizophrenia, emphasizing the potential contributions of disrupted iron homeostasis and oxidative mechanisms to the pathology and progression of this disease. The emerging evidence linking ferroptosis with the oxidative stress observed in schizophrenia provides a compelling narrative for re‑evaluating current therapeutic strategies and exploring novel interventions targeting these molecular pathways, such as the glutathione peroxidase 4 pathway and the ferroptosis suppressor protein 1 pathway. By integrating recent advances in ferroptosis research, the current review highlights innovative therapeutic potentials, including N‑acetylcysteine, selenium, omega‑3 fatty acids and iron chelation therapy, which could address the limitations of existing treatments and improve clinical outcomes for individuals with schizophrenia.

The contemporary approach to nutrition increasingly considers the role of non-nutritive bioactive compounds in modulating the immune system and maintaining health. This article provides up-to-date insight into the immunomodulatory effects of selected bioactive compounds, including micro- and macronutrients, vitamins, as well as other health-promoting substances, such as omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics (including butyric acid and sodium butyrate), coenzyme Q10, lipoic acid, and plant-derived components such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, coumarins, alkaloids, polyacetylenes, saponins, carotenoids, and terpenoids. Micro- and macronutrients, such as zinc, selenium, magnesium, and iron, play a pivotal role in regulating the immune response and protecting against oxidative stress. Vitamins, especially vitamins C, D, E, and B, are vital for the optimal functioning of the immune system as they facilitate the production of cytokines, the differentiation of immunological cells, and the neutralization of free radicals, among other functions. Omega-3 fatty acids exhibit strong anti-inflammatory effects and enhance immune cell function. Probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics modulate the intestinal microbiota, thereby promoting the integrity of the intestinal barrier and communication between the microbiota and the immune system. Coenzyme Q10, renowned for its antioxidant attributes, participates in the protection of cells from oxidative stress and promotes energy processes essential for immune function. Sodium butyrate and lipoic acid exhibit anti-inflammatory effects and facilitate the regeneration of the intestinal epithelium, which is crucial for the maintenance of immune homeostasis. This article emphasizes the necessity of an integrative approach to optimal nutrition that considers not only nutritional but also non-nutritional bioactive compounds to provide adequate support for immune function. Without them, the immune system will never function properly, because it has been adapted to this in the course of evolution. The data presented in this article may serve as a foundation for further research into the potential applications of bioactive components in the prevention and treatment of diseases associated with immune dysfunction.

Mounting evidence indicates that individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) face a heightened risk of severe outcomes upon contracting coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Current medications for COVID-19 often carry side effects, necessitating alternative therapies with improved tolerance. This review explores the biological mechanisms rendering COPD patients more susceptible to severe COVID-19 and investigates the potential of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) in mitigating the severity of COVID-19 in COPD patients.

Current evidence indicates that COPD patients are at an increased risk of severe COVID-19 due to factors including compromised pulmonary function, dysregulated inflammation, weakened immune response, increased oxidative stress, elevated expression of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE2) receptors in the lungs, and genetic predispositions. Remarkably, n-3 PUFAs exhibit the potential in ameliorating the clinical outcomes of COPD patients with COVID-19 by modulating inflammation, reinforcing the body's antioxidant defenses, reducing viral entry and replication, and enhancing immunity. N-3 PUFAs hold potential for improving COVID-19 outcomes in patients with COPD. However, there has been limited investigation into the therapeutic effects of n-3 PUFAs in enhancing clinical outcomes for COPD patients. Rigorous clinical studies are essential to evaluate the impact of n-3 PUFAs on COPD patients with concurrent COVID-19 infection.

Forty-four pregnant Angus first-calf heifers (initial body weight [BW] = 490 ± 8 kg, body condition score [BCS] = 5.4 ± 0.06) were selected and assigned to the experiment at the end of their second trimester of gestation. From day 0 until calving, first-calf heifers were gathered and individually fed 3 times a week with dry distillers' grain (DDG; 3.5 kg/heifer per feeding; as-fed basis) + treatments. Treatments were 1) 234 g/heifer per feeding of Ca salts of PUFA based on eicosapentaenoic (EPA) and docosahexaenoic (DHA) acids (OMG, Strata; Virtus Nutrition LLC, Corcoran, CA; n = 22), or 2) 234 g/heifer per feeding of Ca salts of saturated and monosaturated fatty acids based on palmitic and oleic acids (CON; EnerGII, Virtus Nutrition; n = 22). From day -11 (d of gestation 192 ± 5.1) to calving, heifers were allocated to rangeland pasture. First-calf heifer BW and BCS were recorded (days -10 and -9), and blood was collected on day -10, and upon calving. Calves were weaned on day 260, and preconditioned from days 260 to 302, and feedlot was received from days 303 to 350. No differences were detected (P ≥ 0.33) for heifer BW or BCS changes at calving. A tendency for greater concentration of colostrum IgG (P = 0.08) was observed in heifers supplemented with OMG vs. CON cohorts. There were no differences (P ≥ 0.31) among treatments at calving for calving rate, birth BW, heart girth, and % of male calves born. Calves from OMG heifers had greater (P = 0.04) plasma IgG concentration compared to CON calves. No differences were observed (P ≥ 0.11) for weaning rate and age, birth to weaning average daily gain (ADG), weaning weight, liver enzymes, and serum antibodies against respiratory viruses. During the preconditioning, OMG calves had greater (P ≤ 0.05) final BW and ADG compared with calves born to CON heifers. These differences in performance remained (P ≤ 0.05) throughout the receiving phase. A treatment × day interaction was detected (P = 0.05) for plasma cortisol concentration, which was greater (P < 0.01) for calves born to OMG first-calf heifers on days 260 and 263 and lower (P < 0.01) on day 306 compared to CON cohorts. Supplementing omega-3 fatty acids to late-gestating first-calf beef heifers enhances IgG concentrations in both heifers and their offspring. While offspring growth from birth to weaning remained unaffected, OMG calves demonstrated increased weight during the preconditioning and receiving phases, suggesting potential long-term growth benefits.

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of dietary omega-3 fatty acids in broiler chickens exposed to high stocking density (SD) on growth performance, carcass characteristics, breast meat quality, blood biochemical indices, nutrient digestibility and litter quality. A total of 420 one-day-old broilers were used in 2 × 2 factorial arrangements with 2 levels of SD (low: 9 birds/ m2 and high: 17 birds/ m2) and 2 levels of omega-3 fatty acids (low and high omega-3; 0.057 and 0.5% of the diet, respectively) in a completely randomized design with 5 replicates for each treatment. Live body weight (LBW), feed intake (FI), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were recorded periodically. The apparent metabolizable energy (AME), digestibility of crude protein (CP), organic matter (OM), and lipid of experimental diets, were measured from days 30 to 37 of age. The results showed that body weight gain (BWG) and FCR was improved (P < 0.05) in high SD broilers during the grower phase (days 15-24).The BWG of broilers under high SD and dietary omega-3 fatty acids was higher than others (P < 0.05) during the finisher phase (d 25-40). Carcass and total heart weight were higher in birds fed diets containing omega-3 fatty acids under high SD than in birds fed a diet low in omega-3 fatty acids at low or high SD (P < 0.05). The serum concentration of cholesterol in broilers with high SD fed diets high in omega-3 fatty acids was lower than broilers with high SD fed diets low in omega-3 fatty acids (P < 0.05). High SD decreased AME and CP digestibility (P < 0.05). Dietary omega-3 fatty acids, increased AME and digestibility of OM and lipid (P < 0.05). In broiler chickens raised at low stocking density, feeding a high-omega-3 diet reduced litter nitrogen levels compared to feeding a low omega-3 diet (P < 0.05). In summary, omega-3 fatty acid may have the potential to reduce negative effects of high SD on broiler production by enhancing the nutrient digestibility and litter quality.

Apple pectin (AP), a well-established dietary fiber, offers significant health benefits, particularly in immunomodulation. However, the structure-activity relationship (SAR) in this context remains poorly understood. This study aimed to elucidate the impact of varying degrees of esterification (DE) on AP's SAR in immunomodulatory activity. AP-Es (AP-E1, AP-E2, AP-E3) with different DE were prepared using mild ultrasound-assisted alkali de-esterification, followed by SAR analysis. Results revealed that AP-E3, with the lowest DE (5.08 ± 0.22 %), demonstrated a significant reduction in homogalacturonan (HG) domains and a corresponding increase in rhamnogalacturonan-I (RG-I) domains, which coincided with enhanced immunomodulatory effects. The molecular weights of AP-E1, AP-E2, and AP-E3 were determined to be 30.94 ± 0.83 kDa, 27.61 ± 0.65 kDa, and 22.17 ± 0.57 kDa, respectively. To further explore the underlying mechanism, transgenic zebrafish with fluorescent macrophages were utilized. A positive correlation was observed between AP-E3 concentration and the number of fluorescent microspheres engulfed by macrophages. Additionally, AP-E3 significantly upregulated the expression of key immune response genes (tnf-α, il-1β, il-6, cox-2, inos, and nf-κb) and restored the gut microbiota composition and abundance in chloramphenicol-induced immunocompromised zebrafish. Metabolomics analysis revealed that AP-E3 effectively restored metabolic homeostasis by activating multiple signaling pathways associated with signal transduction, immune regulation, and metabolism. These findings highlight the potential of low-esterified AP enriched with RG-I domains as a promising candidate for applications in immune modulation and gut health management.

Studies investigating associations between prenatal polyunsaturated fatty acid status (PUFAs), in particular the anti-inflammatory n-3 PUFAs, and the development of childhood asthma have yielded conflicting results.

To determine the associations between maternal fish intake (a rich source of the n-3 PUFAs), maternal or cord PUFAs with the prevalence of childhood asthma in a high fish-eating population.

We examined these associations between fish intake and PUFA concentrations with childhood asthma prevalence in the Seychelles Child Development Study Nutrition Cohort 2, a large observational study in a high fish-eating population. Maternal fish intake during pregnancy and child's fish intake at 7 years were assessed by questionnaire, with frequency reported as meals/week. Serum concentrations of PUFAs were quantified in maternal blood collected at 28 weeks' gestation (n = 1448) and in cord blood (n = 1088). Asthma in children at 7 years was assessed using the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) questionnaire (n = 1098).

A total of 97 children (10.5%) were reported to have asthma. In regression analysis, the odds of childhood asthma were not associated with maternal fish intake or maternal PUFA status. Cord DHA concentrations were associated with increased asthma prevalence when the highest quartile (≥0.123 mg/mL) was compared with the lowest (<0.061 mg/mL).

The results from this current study add to the growing body of evidence that fish consumption during pregnancy is not associated with asthma development in offspring. The associations between cord blood DHA and asthma prevalence are unexpected and warrant further investigation.

To assess the associations between serum and dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), as well as the inflammatory potential of diet measured by the Children's Dietary Inflammatory Index (C-DIITM), and recurrent respiratory infections (RRIs) in children. We enrolled 44 children aged 3-16 years with RRIs and 44 healthy controls. Dietary intake was assessed using a 7-day food record from which PUFA intake and C-DIITM were calculated. Serum PUFA levels were determined using gas-liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. The dietary assessment showed a significantly lower fiber intake in children with RRIs. The RRI group had a higher inflammatory potential in the diet than healthy controls. Children with RRIs have higher serum levels of linoleic, arachidonic, and eicosapentaenoic acids than healthy subjects. A pro-inflammatory diet was positively associated with serum n-6 PUFA levels in both the groups. A high inflammatory potential of diet, body mass index over 75 percentile, and short breastfeeding duration were identified as risk factors for RRIs. The inflammatory potential of diet is strongly associated with RRIs in children and related to their PUFA status. Promoting breastfeeding and healthy dietary habits during childhood are crucial for implementing effective preventive management strategies.

Omega-3 fatty acids (ω-3-FAs) represent a group of essential nutrients, but modern diets often do not allow for a balanced ratio between the intakes of ω-6-FA and ω-3-FA, which is vital for health. ω-3-FA can be found primarily in algae and fish, while the intake of ω-3-FA dietary supplements can be seen as an efficient way of providing nutrients important for many physiological functions.

The aim of this research was to investigate the use of ω-3-FA-rich food and supplements, as well as the knowledge and attitudes on these nutrients among residents of the central Balkans-the Republic of Serbia and the Republic of Srpska.

The research was performed as a prospective, cross-section, online survey.

A total of 895 responses were collected, with relatively high usage of ω-3-FA supplements (34.2%). It was found that the respondents use these supplements due to inadequate dietary intake, but also in therapy or prevention of certain diseases and conditions. Users take the supplements on a regular basis, although for short periods of time. The respondents reported the dietary intake of food rich in ω-3-FA. It was found that more than half of parents give these supplements to their children, with similar purposes, although more frequently and for longer periods of time. The use of ω-3-FA via supplements in pregnant and breastfeeding women is also present.

The residents of the investigated territory seem to have an awareness of the importance of ω-3-FA use, with its consumption being registered in both the general population and specific subpopulations. Future steps would include further promotion and education on the given topic.

Williams Syndrome (WS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder with a prevalence of 1 in 7500 to 1 in 20,000 individuals, caused by a microdeletion in chromosome 7q11.23. Despite its distinctive clinical features, the underlying metabolic alterations remain largely unexplored. This study employs targeted metabolomics to investigate the metabolic characteristics of children with WS. Using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), we identified significant dysregulation of 15 metabolites, with 11 upregulated and 4 downregulated. Notably, amino acids such as alanine, proline, and arginine were significantly elevated. Fatty acid metabolism showed pronounced upregulation of long-chain saturated fatty acids (C18:0, C20:0, C22:0, C24:0, C26:0, and C28:0) and downregulation of long-chain unsaturated fatty acids (C18:2 LA, C22:6 DHA, C16:1 PLA, and t-C18:1 EA), except for upregulated nervonic acid (C24:1) and arachidonic acid (C20:4). Metabolic pathway analysis highlighted disruptions in arginine synthesis, arginine/proline metabolism, alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid metabolism, and arachidonic acid metabolism. This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of amino acid and fatty acid metabolism in children with WS, offering insights into the disorder's complex metabolic landscape. Further validation in larger cohorts is essential to confirm these findings and their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

Immunosenescence, the age-related decline in immune function, is a complex biological process with profound implications for health and longevity. This phenomenon, characterized by alterations in both innate and adaptive immunity, increases susceptibility to infections, reduces vaccine efficacy, and contributes to the development of age-related diseases. At the cellular level, immunosenescence manifests as decreased production of naive T and B cells, accumulation of memory and senescent cells, thymic involution, and dysregulated cytokine production. Recent advances in molecular biology have shed light on the underlying mechanisms of immunosenescence, including telomere attrition, epigenetic alterations, mitochondrial dysfunction, and changes in key signaling pathways such as NF-κB and mTOR. These molecular changes lead to functional impairments in various immune cell types, altering their proliferative capacity, differentiation, and effector functions. Emerging research suggests that lifestyle factors may modulate the rate and extent of immunosenescence at both cellular and molecular levels. Physical activity, nutrition, stress management, and sleep patterns have been shown to influence immune cell function, inflammatory markers, and oxidative stress in older adults. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying immunosenescence and explores how lifestyle interventions may impact these processes. We will examine the current understanding of immunosenescence at the genomic, epigenomic, and proteomic levels, and discuss how various lifestyle factors can potentially mitigate or partially reverse aspects of immune aging. By integrating recent findings from immunology, gerontology, and molecular biology, we aim to elucidate the intricate interplay between lifestyle and immune aging at the molecular level, potentially informing future strategies for maintaining immune competence in aging populations.

Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are vital dietary elements that play a significant role in human nutrition. They are highly regarded for their positive contributions to overall health and well-being. Beyond the fact that they provide a substantial supply of energy to the body (a role that saturated fats can also perform), these unsaturated fatty acids and, especially, the essential ones are involved in cell membrane structure, blood pressure regulation, and coagulation; participate in the proper functioning of the immune system and assimilation of fat-soluble vitamins; influence the synthesis of pro- and anti-inflammatory substances; and protect the cardiovascular system. Modern diets like the Western diet and the American diet are rich in saturated fats found especially in fast food products, sweets, and processed foods, a fact that has led to an increase in the prevalence of metabolic diseases worldwide (obesity, type II diabetes, gout, cardiovascular disease). Nutritionists have drawn attention to the moderate consumption of saturated fats and the need to increase the intake of unsaturated fats to the detriment of saturated ones. This paper examines the biochemical roles of polyunsaturated fats, particularly essential fatty acids, and contrasts their benefits with the detrimental effects of saturated fat overconsumption. Furthermore, it highlights the necessity for dietary shifts towards increased PUFA intake to mitigate the global burden of diet-related health issues. The co-occurrence of PUFAs and polyphenols in plant-based foods highlights the sophistication of nature's design. These bioactive compounds are not randomly distributed but are present in foods humans have consumed together historically. From traditional diets like the Mediterranean, which pairs olive oil (PUFAs and polyphenols) with vegetables and legumes, to Asian cuisines combining sesame seeds with turmeric, cultural practices have long harnessed this natural synergy.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common chronic inflammatory skin disease that severely impairs patient's life quality and represents significant therapeutic challenge due to its pathophysiology arising from skin barrier dysfunction. Topical corticosteroids, the mainstay treatment for mild to moderate AD, are usually formulated into conventional dosage forms that are impeded by low drug permeation, resulting in high doses with consequent adverse effects, and also lack properties that would strengthen the skin barrier. Herein, we aimed to develop biomimetic lamellar lyotropic liquid crystals (LLCs), offering a novel alternative to conventional AD treatment.

In screening studies, pseudoternary phase diagrams alongside polarized light microscopy (PLM) and viscosity measurements were utilized. Next, the selected LCCs underwent comprehensive characterization via PLM, small-angle X-ray scattering, differential scanning calorimetry, and rheological analysis. Lastly, their performance was evaluated and compared with the commercially available reference medicine in chemical stability study, in vitro permeation testing, in vitro safety assessment using cell proliferation assay, inverted light microscopy, and Raman mapping of keratinocytes, besides gap closure assay performed by live-cell imaging.

Formulation (L/T)Ho30, containing the highest amount of lecithin/Tween 80 mixture (21%) and hempseed oil (28%), demonstrated lamellar microstructure with high skin hydration potential and favourable rheological features for skin administration. Moreover, in comparison with the reference medicine, it stood out by providing suitable chemical BD (betamethasone dipropionate) stability, improved 3-fold BD permeation, and excellent biocompatibility with over 85% cell proliferation at all tested concentrations, ensuring keratinocytes' integrity, as well as promoting skin healing with gap closure observed after 36 hours.

Unique multi-target drug delivery strategy depicted in newly developed bioinspired lamellar LCCs structurally resembling stratum corneum intercellular lipids, with incorporated BD drug, and composed of multifunctional components that synergistically strengthen skin barrier, was presented here and shows a promising approach for improved AD treatment.

As identified in 1936 by Hans Selye, stress is shaping diseases through the induction of inflammation. But inflammation display some yin yang properties. On one hand inflammation is merging with the innate immune response aimed to fight infectious or sterile insults, on the other hand inflammation favors chronic physical or psychological disorders. Nature has equipped the cells, the organs, and the individuals with mediators and mechanisms that allow them to deal with stress, and even a good stress (eustress) has been associated with homeostasis. Likewise, societies and the planet are exposed to stressful settings, but wars and global warming suggest that the regulatory mechanisms are poorly efficient. In this review we list some inducers of the physiological stress, psychologic stress, societal stress, and planetary stress, and mention some of the great number of parameters which affect and modulate the response to stress and render it different from an individual to another, from the cellular level to the societal one. The cell, the organ, the individual, the society, and the planet share many stressors of which the consequences are extremely interconnected ending in the domino effect and the butterfly effect.

Limited epidemiological evidence exists regarding the role of healthy eating patterns in reducing the risk of Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). This study aimed to investigate the association between adherence to four established healthy eating patterns and subsequent CD or UC risk, and further examined whether these associations are linked to anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

We conducted a prospective cohort study of 197,391 participants from the UK Biobank who completed at least one dietary questionnaire and were free from inflammatory bowel disease or cancer at baseline. Four dietary patterns were assessed, including Alternate Mediterranean Diet (AMED), Healthy Eating Index 2015 (HEI-2015), Healthful Plant-based Diet Index (HPDI), and EAT-Lancet. Cox proportional models with restricted cubic splines were applied to explore the associations. The potential role of low-grade inflammation in these associations was examined through mediation analysis.

During 2,193,436 person-years follow-up, 260 CD and 601 UC cases were identified. Higher AMED and HEI-2015 scores were associated with a reduced risk of CD but no UC, with no evidence against nonlinearity. These associations remained consistent across multiple sensitive and subgroup analyses. For dietary components, the fruits and monounsaturated fatty acids: saturated fatty acids ratio in AMED, and total fruits, total protein foods and fatty acid in HEI-2015 were linked to a decreased CD risk. Both diets were also associated with lower plasma inflammation biomarkers. Mediation analysis indicated that 7.66% and 13.40% of the reductions in CD risk attributed to AMED and HEI-2015 diets, respectively, were mediated by low-grade inflammation scores.

Higher adherence to AMED and HEI-2015 might significantly reduce CD risk, partly due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

Recent insights into the influence of nutrition on immune system components have driven the development of dietary strategies targeting the prevention and management of major metabolic-inflammatory diseases. This review summarizes the bidirectional relationship between nutrition and immunocompetence, beginning with an overview of immune system components and their functions. It examines the effects of nutritional status, dietary patterns, and food bioactives on systemic inflammation, immune cell populations, and lymphoid tissues, as well as their associations with infectious and chronic disease pathogenesis. The mechanisms by which key nutrients influence immune constituents are delineated, focusing on vitamins A, D, E, C, and B, as well as minerals including zinc, iron, and selenium. Also highlighted are the immunomodulatory effects of polyunsaturated fatty acids as well as bioactive phenolic compounds and probiotics, given their expanding relevance. Each section addresses the implications of nutritional and nutraceutical interventions involving these nutrients within the broader context of major infectious, metabolic, and inflammatory diseases. This review further underscores that, while targeted nutrient supplementation can effectively restore immune function to optimal levels, caution is necessary in certain cases, as it may increase morbidity in specific diseases. In other instances, dietary counseling should be integrated to ensure that therapeutic goals are achieved safely and effectively.

Dietary supplementation with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids improves cognitive performance in several animal models of Alzheimer's disease (AD), an effect often associated with reduced amyloid-beta and/or tau pathologies. However, it remains unclear to what extent eicosapentaenoic (EPA) provides additional benefits compared to docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Here, male and female 3xTg-AD mice were fed for 3 months (13-16 months of age) the following diets: (1) control (no DHA/EPA), (2) DHA (1.1g/kg) and low EPA (0.4g/kg), or (3) DHA (0.9g/kg) with high EPA (9.2g/kg). The DHA and DHA + EPA diets respectively increased DHA by 19% and 8% in the frontal cortex of 3xTg-AD mice, compared to controls. Levels of EPA, which were below the detection limit after the control diet, reached 0.14% and 0.29% of total brain fatty acids after the DHA and DHA + EPA diet, respectively. DHA and DHA + EPA diets lowered brain arachidonic acid levels and the n-6:n-3 docosapentaenoic acid ratio. Brain uptake of free 14C-DHA measured through intracarotid brain perfusion, but not of 14C-EPA, was lower in 3xTg-AD than in NonTg mice. DHA and DHA + EPA diets in 3xTg-AD mice reduced cortical soluble phosphorylated tau (pS202) (-34% high-DHA, -34% DHA + EPA, P < 0.05) while increasing p21-activated kinase (+58% and +83%, P < 0.001; respectively). High EPA intake lowered insoluble phosphorylated tau (-31% vs. DHA, P < 0.05). No diet effect on amyloid-beta levels was observed. In conclusion, dietary intake of DHA and EPA leads to differential changes in brain PUFA while altering cerebral biomarkers consistent with beneficial effects against AD-like neuropathology.

Ghee, a traditional form of clarified butter, has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine for its numerous health benefits. Recent scientific studies have begun to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which ghee may support bone and joint health. This review explores the bioactive components of ghee, including short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K2), and their potential therapeutic effects on bone density, joint lubrication, and inflammation. SCFAs in ghee can potentially improve joint lubrication and reduce inflammation. MCFAs and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, modulating cytokine production and oxidative stress pathways. Vitamins D and K2 in ghee can play potentially crucial roles in calcium metabolism and bone mineralization, while vitamin A supports immune regulation and cartilage health. This review integrates traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific research, highlighting the potential of ghee as a complementary therapy for conditions such as osteoporosis and arthritis. By understanding the molecular mechanisms involved, future studies can focus on this field to shed a light on different effects of ghee on bone and joint health.

This study focuses in investigating the fatty acid contents of surviving infected hybrid grouper fed with oleic acid immunostimulant. After a 6-week feeding trial, Epinephelus fuscoguttatus × Epinephelus lanceolatus fingerlings were infected with Vibrio vulnificus. One week after bacterial challenge, fish oil was extracted from body tissue of surviving infected fingerlings using the Soxhlet extraction method. The extracted samples were then sent for GC-MS analysis. The raw GC-MS data were analyzed using software programs and databases (i.e., MetaboAnalyst, SIMCA-P, NIST Library, and KEGG). A total of 39 metabolites were putatively identified, with 18 metabolites derived from the fatty acid group. Our further analysis revealed that most metabolites were highly abundant in the oleic acid dietary samples, including oleic acid (4.56%), 5,8,11-eicosatrienoic acid (3.45%), n-hexadecenoic acid (3.34%), cis-erucic acid (2.76%), and 9-octadecenoic acid (2.5%). Worthy of note, we observed a greater abundance of α-linoleic acid (15.57%) in the control diet samples than in the oleic acid diet samples (14.59%) with no significant difference in their results. The results obtained from this study revealed that surviving infected hybrid grouper expressed more immune-related fatty acids due to the effect of oleic acid immunostimulant. Therefore, in this study, we propose oleic acid as a potential immunostimulant in enhancing fish immunity in aquaculture industry.