Search Results (266)

Obesity is currently one of the major medical problems affecting humans and companion animals, including cats; however, a detailed understanding of the metabolic processes altered in feline obesity remains limited. This study aimed to investigate obesity-related changes in the serum metabolome of three groups of cats, metabolically healthy normal-weight (MHN) cats, metabolically healthy overweight (MHO) cats, and metabolically unhealthy overweight (MUO) cats. Metabolome changes were assessed using LC-MS (untargeted), LC-MS (targeted), and FIA-MS (targeted) methods. Untargeted analysis detected 141 significant annotated features, while targeted approach identified 48 metabolites significantly associated with obesity. Both untargeted and targeted analyses showed lower kynurenine levels in the MUO group compared to the MHN group. Targeted LC-MS analysis identified 11 significant metabolites, whereas the FIA-MS approach detected 37. Four metabolites—glycine, citrulline, and two phosphatidylcholines—were found at lower levels in the MHO group compared to the MHN group. Arginine and proline metabolism, along with methionine metabolism, were significantly altered pathways, while thyroid hormone synthesis was independently altered with the highest enrichment ratio. The obtained results suggest that cats with a healthy phenotype exhibit an intermediate-metabolic-risk profile and provide new insights into the metabolic mechanisms and pathways underlying feline obesity. Full article

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with factors such as an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, obesity, diabetes, and chronic inflammatory conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), as well as TP53 mutations, which are observed in a broad spectrum of CRC. Additionally, alteration in the composition of the gut microbiome community and metabolism plays a significant role in the development of colorectal cancer and its therapeutic effects. It is well known that treatment with sodium butyrate (NaB), an intestinal microbial metabolite, can induce apoptosis by activating histone deacetylase (HDAC) in cancer cells. Therefore, this study examined the relationship between NaB-induced apoptosis and p53 protein level in colorectal cancer cells. Treatment with NaB triggered cell death in the HCT116 cell line. Furthermore, a notable elevation in p53 protein level was detected following treatment with a high concentration of NaB, compared to both the control group and the low concentration NaB. Furthermore, apoptotic cell death was diminished in a p53-deficient cell line (HCT 116 p53^−/−) and p53 protein expression was more stabilized. Although p53 mRNA expression was not affected, acetylation of p53 protein was clearly observed by high concentration NaB treatment. To demonstrate the relationship between p53 acetylation and cell death, HT29 cells were treated with a high concentration of NaB. In HT29 cells with a mutation in the p53 gene, increased cell viability, overproduction p53 protein, and hyperacetylation of p53 were observed compared to the control. The results of this study suggest that p53 protein expression plays an important role in the effectiveness of therapy utilizing gut microbiota metabolites. Full article

Obesity is currently one of the most critical public health problems. Although there is no doubt that obesity is a significant risk factor for developing metabolic disorders, this relationship is not completely straightforward. On the one hand, some patients affected by obesity are metabolically unhealthy, while others are metabolically healthy; on the other hand, metabolic syndrome (MetS) can also occur in people with a normal body weight. A commonly used tool for diagnosing obesity is the body mass index (BMI), but the search for better anthropometric measures is ongoing due to the significant limitations of this measure. Obesity can lead to MetS and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Adipose tissue dysfunction is the fundamental mechanism linking obesity and cardiometabolic diseases, which is rooted in the disturbed secretion of adipokines. The visceral adiposity index (VAI) is calculated based on the BMI, waist circumference (WC), blood triglycerides (TG), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) concentrations. It was proposed in 2010 by Amato et al. as a parameter indicating adipose tissue dysfunction and cardiometabolic risk. According to the research conducted so far, some data confirm a relationship between the VAI value and the risk of developing prediabetes, diabetes, insulin resistance, fatty liver disease, MetS, CVD, and chronic kidney disease. Further research is needed to support the implementation of VAI assessment in routine clinical practice. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of a narrative literature review summarizing current knowledge regarding the VAI and its usefulness in clinical practice for assessing cardiometabolic risk. Full article

Background/Objectives: Recent research indicates a global transition from healthy and balanced diets to unhealthy Westernized dietary patterns (WDPs). This transition is linked to increased rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), e.g., obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases, often preceded by metabolic syndrome (MetS). Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop a diet quality index, termed Westernized Diet Index (WDI), to assess adherence to WDPs and its association with main cardiometabolic health issues, for which MetS and its components were chosen as representatives of NCDs. Methods: The development of the WDI was driven by a semi-systematic and comprehensive examination of the literature (n = 491 articles) that evaluated the influence of WDP components on health outcomes. The scoring algorithm involved multiple steps, assigning scores based on study design, sample size, and the direction of food effects on health outcomes. Results: The final developed index encompassed 30 food groups/items. It was revealed that soft drinks, processed foods, red meat, sodium, and hydrogenated fats had the most detrimental effects on health, significantly influencing the index’s coefficients. In contrast, dietary fiber, plant-based metabolites, vitamins, minerals, nuts/seeds, and fish had the most substantial beneficial impacts. Conclusions: The WDI aligns with the existing literature on the importance of specific food items and with other validated diet quality indices, e.g., the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) and Alternate Healthy Eating Index (AHEI). Thus, the WDI can provide evidence for clinicians and researchers in formulating evidence-based dietary guidelines as well as strategies for the prevention and treatment of diet-related health issues. However, further validation is proposed to verify the WDI’s capability across different contexts. Full article

Background/Objectives: Plant-based diets are associated with reduced chronic disease risk, though regional variations persist. In Zhejiang, China, where plant-based food intake is high, this study aimed to explore the association between plant-based diets and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in adults aged 35–75. Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized data from the 2024 Zhejiang Nutrition and Health Survey (ZJNHS). Three plant-based diet indices were calculated: the overall plant-based diet index (PDI), healthy plant-based diet index (hPDI), and unhealthy plant-based diet index (uPDI). Multivariate logistic regression models evaluated associations between diet index quintiles and MetS and its components. Results: Among the 4695 participants included in the study, 23.9% (n = 1122) had MetS. After adjusting for demographic and lifestyle factors, individuals in the highest uPDI quintile showed a significantly higher MetS risk compared to the lowest quintile (OR = 1.37, 95% CI: 1.08–1.73, p-trend = 0.013). Subgroup analyses revealed significant gender interaction (p for interaction < 0.001), with women exhibiting elevated MetS risk (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01–1.04, p < 0.001). For MetS components, the highest uPDI quintile was associated with increased risks of abdominal obesity (OR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.05–1.66; p-trend = 0.032), elevated blood pressure (OR = 1.41, 95% CI: 1.12–1.78; p-trend = 0.003), and elevated fasting glucose (OR = 1.27, 95% CI: 1.01–1.59; p-trend = 0.037). Conclusions: Unhealthy plant-based foods are associated with increased MetS risk, particularly in women. Reducing intake of such foods, considering sex differences, and implementing precision nutrition interventions are essential. Full article

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its associated cardiometabolic phenotypes significantly contribute to the global burden of cardiovascular disease (CVD), especially in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and prediabetes. This study aimed to explore the association between cardiometabolic phenotypes—specifically, metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUHNW) and metabolically unhealthy obese (MUHO)—and various cardiovascular risk indices including the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and its derivatives, the atherogenic index of plasma (AIP), the cardiometabolic index (CMI), and the cardiac risk ratio (CRR). A total of 300 participants were evaluated (100 with prediabetes and 200 with T2DM). Anthropometric, biochemical, and lifestyle parameters were assessed and stratified across phenotypes. The results demonstrated that cardiovascular risk indices were significantly elevated in the MUHO compared to MUHNW phenotypes, with T2DM patients consistently exhibiting higher risk profiles than their prediabetic counterparts. TyG-derived indices showed strong correlations with BMI, waist–hip ratio (WHR), waist–height ratio (WHtR), and body fat percentage (%BF). The findings suggest that cardiometabolic phenotypes are more strongly associated with elevated cardiometabolic risk indices than body weight alone. These indices may enhance early risk stratification and intervention efforts. The study investigates the association of cardiometabolic phenotypes with surrogate cardiovascular risk indices, not direct CVD outcomes, However, the cross-sectional design and population homogeneity limit the generalizability of the results and preclude causal inference. Full article

Background/Objectives: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) among youth is rising, and the increase is closely linked to unhealthy lifestyle patterns. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of MetS among University of Rijeka students and investigate its associations with dietary habits, physical activity, gender, and faculty type (health and non-health faculties). Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted from September 2024 to March 2025 involved 217 randomly selected students from 16 faculties. The validated questionnaires Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener (MEDAS) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF), as well as a general data questionnaire, were used alongside anthropometric (height, weight, waist circumference) and biochemical measurements (fasting plasma glucose, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol). MetS was diagnosed using a combination of International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria and Polish Experts Consensus (2022) criteria. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics, t-tests, ANOVA, Spearman’s correlation, and multivariate logistic regression. Results: MetS was identified in 5.5% of students. Significant risk factors included obesity (body mass index, BMI, p < 0.05), low physical activity (IPAQ-SF, p < 0.05), elevated blood pressure (p < 0.01), high triglyceride levels (p < 0.05), and increased waist-to-height ratio (WHtR, p < 0.01). Female students reported lower physical activity than males (p < 0.05), while students from non-health faculties had lower adherence to the Mediterranean diet (MEDAS, p < 0.05) and reduced physical activity (p < 0.05). Higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet correlated with lower BMI and triglyceride levels (p < 0.05), whereas lower adherence was associated with reduced physical activity (Spearman’s r = −0.35, p < 0.01). Logistic regression with WHR as the dependent variable showed waist circumference (WC) as the strongest predictor (OR = 45.925, 95% CI: 5.238–402.666, p = 0.001), followed by triglycerides (OR = 3.395, 95% CI: 1.322–8.718, p = 0.011). BMI was inversely associated with WHR (OR = 0.068, 95% CI: 0.006–0.780, p = 0.031). HDL cholesterol, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and fasting glucose were not significant predictors (p > 0.05), indicating limited predictive power in this model. Conclusions: The 5.5% MetS prevalence underscores the need for targeted interventions promoting Mediterranean diet adherence and physical activity, particularly among non-health faculty students and females. Longitudinal studies are warranted to assess intervention efficacy. Full article

Background/Objectives: Individuals with childhood obesity exhibit significant metabolic heterogeneity, necessitating precise biomarkers for risk stratification and assessment. This multi-omics investigation characterizes metabolic and microbial signatures underlying divergent metabolic phenotypes in the context of pediatric obesity. Methods: We analyzed 285 Chinese children (5–7 years) stratified into five groups: wasting (WAS, n = 55), metabolically healthy/unhealthy and normal weight (MHWH, n = 54; MUWH, n = 67), and metabolically healthy/unhealthy obesity (MHO, n = 36; MUO, n = 73). Untargeted metabolomics (Orbitrap ID-X Tribrid™) and 16S rRNA sequencing were integrated with multivariate analyses (OPLS-DA with VIP > 1, FDR < 0.05; Maaslin 2 with TSS normalization and BH correction, FDR < 0.10). Results: Analysis identified 225 differential metabolites and 12 bacterial genera. The proportion of steroids and their derivatives among differential metabolites in the MUO/MHO group was significantly lower than that in the OVOB/NOR and OVOB/WAS groups (2.12% vs. 7.9–14.1%). MUO displayed elevated C17 sphinganine and LysoPC (O-18:0) levels but reduced PI (16:0/14:1) levels. In contrast, OVOB showed upregulated glycerol phospholipids (LPCs and PSs) and downregulated PE species (e.g., PE(16:0/16:0)) as well as gut microbiota dysbiosis characterized by a higher Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio (2.07 vs. 1.24 in controls, p = 0.009) and reduced α diversity (Ace index, Chao1 index, and Shannon index values were lower in the OVOB group, Shannon index: 2.96 vs. 3.45, p = 0.03). SCFA-producing genera were negatively correlated with the OVOB group, while positively associated with PE(16:0/16:0). Internal validation showed differential metabolites had potential predictive efficacy for MUO/MHO (AUC = 0.967) and OVOB/NOR (AUC = 0.888). Conclusions: We identified distinct lipid disruptions characterizing obesity subtypes, including steroid/terpene deficits and sphingolipid/ether lipid dysregulation in the MUO/MHO groups as well as phospholipid imbalance (↑LPC/PS↓PE) in the OVOB/NOR groups. The gut microbiota exhibited a profile characterized by low diversity, an increased F/B ratio, and a reduced abundance of SCFA-producing genera. These findings suggest potential biomarkers for childhood obesity stratification, though further validation is warranted. Full article

Background: Childhood obesity is a growing global health concern. Metabolomics, the comprehensive study of metabolites within biological systems, offers a powerful approach to better define the phenotype and understand the complex biochemical alterations associated with obesity. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize current knowledge in the field of metabolomics in childhood obesity and to identify metabolic signatures or biomarkers associated with overweight/obesity (Ov/Ob) and Metabolically Unhealthy Obesity (MUO) in children and adolescents. Methods: We performed a systematic search of Medline and Scopus databases according to PRISMA guidelines. We included only longitudinal prospective studies or randomized controlled trials with ≥12 months of follow-up, as well as meta-analyses of the above that assessed the relation between metabolic signatures related to obesity and Body Mass Index (BMI) or other measures of adiposity in children and adolescents aged 2–19 years with overweight or obesity. Initially, 595 records were identified from PubMed and 1565 from Scopus. After removing duplicates and screening for relevance, 157 reports were assessed for eligibility. From the additional search, 75 new records were retrieved, of which none were eligible for our study. Finally, 7 reports were included in the present systematic review (4 reporting on Ov/Ob and 4 on MUO). Results: The presented studies suggest that the metabolism of amino acids and lipids is primarily affected by childhood obesity. Metabolites like glycoprotein acetyls, the Apolipoprotein B/Apolipoprotein A-1 ratio, and lactate have emerged as potential biomarkers for insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, highlighting their potential value in clinical applications. Conclusions: There is a need for future longitudinal studies to assess metabolic changes over time, interventional studies to evaluate the efficacy of therapeutic strategies, and large-scale population studies to explore metabolic diversity across different demographics. Our findings reveal specific biomarkers in the amino acid and lipid pathway that may serve as early indicators of childhood obesity and its associated cardiometabolic complications. Full article

This study aimed to identify and analyse the copy number variations (CNVs) in the genes involved in the pathophysiology of obesity and correlate these findings with the phenotypic manifestations. Genetic screening of 59 apparently healthy individuals with elevated adipose tissue percentages was performed, assessing the duplications and deletions of obesity-related genes through the MLPA (Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification) technique. Clinical and metabolic parameters, including insulin, HOMA-IR, leptin, and adiponectin levels, were measured to better describe the obesity profiles of the participants in this study. In our research, 11.86% of the subjects presented with genetic alterations in obesity-associated genes, with 16% of these modifications involving concurrent duplications in SEZ6L2-1 and SH2B1-2, linked to doubled insulin and tripled HOMA-IR levels. However, the same duplications were associated with a reduced trunk adipose tissue percentage (but not BMI), suggesting leptin signalling modulation. Duplications were more frequent in the metabolically unhealthy obese patients, resulting in a higher relative risk of an obese metabolically unhealthy diagnosis (1.85-fold increased risk in subjects with SEZ6L2-1/SH2B1-2 duplications, p = 0.52). No duplications or deletions were reported in the non-obese patient groups, defined according to the BMI criteria. A partial LEPR deletion was identified in one patient, associated with severe insulin resistance (second-highest HOMA-IR in the cohort). Another subject presented with 11 duplications (7 in LEPR) and reported the lowest adiponectin and second-highest leptin levels among the genetically altered subjects. The genetic profiles revealed complex associations between the CNVs and obesity phenotypes, highlighting the potential for early risk stratification. Despite the interpretative challenges, identifying the genetic predispositions could significantly predict cardiometabolic risk and be used to map personalised interventions to possibly modulate phenotypic expression. Full article

Background: Insulin resistance (IR) is a key metabolic alteration that precedes type 2 diabetes and is closely linked to obesity and lifestyle factors. Occupational context may influence IR risk through variations in physical activity, diet, and socioeconomic determinants. Objective: To compare the risk of insulin resistance between workers in the commerce and industry sectors and identify associated sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, in order to improve their occupational health. Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 56,856 Spanish workers, assessing four IR-related indices: Triglyceride-Glucose Index (TyG), TyG-BMI (Triglyceride-Glucose Body Mass Index), Metabolic Score for Insulin Resistance (METS-IR), and the Single-Point Insulin Sensitivity Estimator (SPISE-IR). The analysis was stratified by sex and sector (commerce vs. industry) and included assessments of age, education level, physical activity, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and smoking status. Multinomial logistic regressions were performed to determine the factors associated with high IR scores. Results: Across all IR indicators, industry workers—particularly men—presented higher mean values and greater prevalence of high-risk scores compared to those in commerce. Women showed lower values overall but also reflected sector-based differences. In both sexes, non-physical activity, non-adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and smoking were consistently associated with higher IR risk. Males exhibited significantly higher odds of elevated TyG (OR = 2.59, 95% CI: 2.41–2.78), while physical inactivity and poor diet emerged as the most powerful modifiable predictors across all scales (e.g., OR = 10.45 for TyG, OR = 12.33 for TyG-BMI). Industry sector was independently associated with higher odds of insulin resistance compared to commerce. Conclusions: Insulin resistance is more prevalent among industrial workers, especially men and those with unhealthy lifestyles. Occupational health strategies should target sector-specific risk profiles, emphasizing physical activity and dietary interventions. Full article

Research on the relationship between resistin levels, metabolic health, and obesity has produced inconsistent findings across different ethnic groups, making it unclear whether lower resistin levels are associated with these conditions in Mexican-Americans. This cross-sectional study investigated the relationship between resistin, metabolic health, and obesity in an adult Mexican-American cohort (n = 1511) using multivariable linear regression analysis. Related adipokines (leptin and adiponectin) were measured simultaneously. Participants were categorized into four groups by metabolic health (healthy/unhealthy) and obesity (obese/non-obese) status. “Metabolically unhealthy” was defined as ≥2 cardiometabolic abnormalities. Obesity was defined as a BMI ≥ 30 kg/m². We also investigated the associations of related proinflammatory cytokines, demographic/anthropometric variables, and medications with each outcome variable of interest. The results showed no statistically significant differences in resistin levels between the groups. Leptin was higher and adiponectin was lower in groups with obesity and/or metabolically unhealthy status. The resistin findings contrast studies in other populations, while other leptin and adiponectin findings confirm those seen in many ethnic groups. Thiazolidinedione use was associated with lower resistin, confirming earlier research. These findings suggest that resistin’s role in metabolic health may be different in Mexican-Americans compared to other populations. Full article

Pediatric obesity is associated with a wide range of comorbidities beyond metabolic changes, affecting cardiovascular, endocrine, reproductive, musculoskeletal systems, and also mental health. Hypertension, commonly observed in children with obesity, increases the risk of long-term cardiovascular disease. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) presents another significant endo-reproductive challenge that often develops during adolescence in females, leading to further comorbidities in adulthood. Additionally, excess adiposity can negatively impact bone health by modifying bone metabolism and increasing fracture risk. Obesity is also strongly linked to mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem, which can further exacerbate unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and disorders. Given the limitations and poor adherence of traditional treatment strategies, nutraceuticals have emerged as potential complementary therapies due to their bioactive properties. Various compounds have demonstrated antihypertensive, insulin-sensitizing, and anti-inflammatory effects, while others support bone metabolism and promote mental well-being. Herewith, we discuss the role of nutraceuticals in managing hypertension, PCOS, bone health, and mental health issues in individuals with obesity, evaluating their mechanisms of action and clinical relevance. Integrating nutraceutical compounds with dietary and lifestyle interventions may improve treatment outcomes and prevent obesity-related comorbidities. Further, we emphasize the need for further large-scale clinical studies, especially in pediatric patients. Full article

Introduction and Objectives: Obesity constitutes a significant public health concern and is frequently linked to metabolic dysfunctions, particularly insulin resistance (IR). Nevertheless, a subset of obese individuals, referred to as metabolically healthy obese (MHO), do not exhibit overt metabolic abnormalities. The present study aims to assess the risk of developing IR among MHO workers and to explore the determinants contributing to this risk. Methods: This cross-sectional investigation utilized data from a cohort of 68,884 obese workers across multiple occupational sectors in Spain. The classification of participants as MHO was based on the number of metabolic syndrome components, in accordance with the criteria established by the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATPIII). Anthropometric, clinical, and biochemical parameters—including body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, lipid profile, glycemic levels, and blood pressure—were systematically assessed. The likelihood of developing IR was estimated through various validated risk assessment models. Results: The analysis indicates that, despite having a relatively favorable metabolic profile, individuals classified as MHO also show signs of metabolic deterioration, such as an increased risk of insulin resistance. Key risk factors such as physical inactivity, low adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and socioeconomic disparities were identified as significant contributors to the transition from the MHO phenotype to a metabolically unhealthy state. Logistic regression analyses corroborated that insufficient physical activity and suboptimal dietary habits were strongly associated with an elevated risk of IR. Conclusions: The findings underscore the dynamic and potentially transient nature of the MHO phenotype, emphasizing the necessity of proactive monitoring and early preventive strategies. Encouraging physical activity, promoting adherence to a nutritionally balanced diet, and implementing workplace health initiatives emerge as critical measures to attenuate the risk of IR and metabolic deterioration in MHO individuals. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to enhance risk stratification and to formulate tailored preventive interventions. Full article

Metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO) is associated with increased inflammation and a higher risk of metabolic disorders compared to metabolically healthy obesity (MHO). T cell dysregulation in blood and adipose tissue may contribute to obesity-induced metabolic dysfunction, yet the characteristics of T cell subset profiles and T-cell receptor (TCR) repertoires in MHO and MUO remain unclear. We analyzed T cell subsets and TCR repertoires in peripheral blood and omental adipose tissue (oAT) from age- and BMI-matched MHO and MUO individuals using flow cytometry and high-throughput TCR sequencing. MUO individuals exhibited a higher proportion of memory CD4⁺ T cells in both compartments, with an increased frequency of central memory T cells. Circulating CD8⁺ T cells were increased in MUO, whereas CD8⁺ T cell subset composition remained unchanged in both blood and oAT. The TCR repertoire in oAT was significantly more restricted than in blood and showed greater skewing in MUO, with selective amplification of specific TRB V genes (TRBV12-4, TRBV18, TRBV7-9) and altered CDR3 length distributions. These findings suggest that distinct CD4⁺ T cell populations and specific TCR signatures may serve as potential biomarkers for metabolic dysfunction in obesity, providing insights into immune mechanisms underlying the transition from MHO to MUO. Full article