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Saturated Fatty Acids Induce Ceramide-associated Macrophage Cell Death
Published on: October 31, 2017
Trans fatty acids induce apoptosis in human endothelial cells
D Zapolska-Downar1, A Kośmider, M Naruszewicz
1National Food and Nutrition Institute and Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Medical University, Warsaw, Poland.
Summary
Trans fatty acids, including elaidic and linoelaidic acids, induce apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. Linoelaidic acid is a more potent inducer of cell death and reactive oxygen species production, suggesting a role in atherosclerosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Trans fatty acids are linked to cardiovascular disease.
- Endothelial cell dysfunction is a key factor in atherosclerosis.
- The specific mechanisms by which trans fatty acids affect endothelial cells require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the hypothesis that trans fatty acids induce apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC).
- To compare the pro-apoptotic effects of elaidic acid (t-18:1) and linoelaidic acid (t,t-18:2) on HUVEC.
- To explore the underlying mechanisms, including reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and caspase activation.
Main Methods:
- HUVEC were treated with varying concentrations of trans elaidic acid or linoelaidic acid for 24 hours.
- Apoptosis was assessed using TUNEL assay, annexin V binding, and propidium iodide uptake.
- Caspase-3 activity, cleaved PARP levels, and intracellular ROS production (DCF fluorescence) were measured.
Main Results:
- Both elaidic and linoelaidic acids induced apoptosis in HUVEC in a dose-dependent manner.
- Both early and late stages of apoptosis were observed, along with an increase in TUNEL-positive cells.
- Trans fatty acids increased Caspase-3 activity, cleaved PARP, and ROS production.
- Linoelaidic acid demonstrated a stronger pro-apoptotic and ROS-inducing effect compared to elaidic acid.
Conclusions:
- Trans fatty acids promote apoptosis in vascular endothelial cells.
- The induction of apoptosis by trans fatty acids involves increased ROS production and Caspase-3 activation.
- These findings suggest a potential role for trans fatty acids in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis through endothelial cell damage and death.
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