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Induction of Atherosclerotic Plaques Through Activation of Mineralocorticoid Receptors in Apolipoprotein E-deficient Mice
Published on: September 26, 2018
Trans-fatty acids in the diet stimulate atherosclerosis
Chantal M C Bassett1, Richelle S McCullough, Andrea L Edel
1Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital Research Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R2H 2A6.
Metabolism: Clinical and Experimental
|July 28, 2009
Summary
Dietary trans-fatty acids (TFAs) promote atherosclerosis independently. However, TFAs do not worsen atherosclerosis when combined with high dietary cholesterol, suggesting cholesterol is the primary driver.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Nutritional Science
- Atherosclerosis Research
Background:
- Epidemiological studies link dietary trans-fatty acids (TFAs) to coronary heart disease.
- The direct pro-atherogenic effect of TFAs has not been definitively established.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of dietary TFAs on atherosclerosis development.
- To examine TFA effects in the presence and absence of elevated dietary cholesterol.
Main Methods:
- Low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient mice were fed diets with varying fat and cholesterol content for 14 weeks.
- Aortic atherosclerotic lesion development was quantified.
- Serum lipid profiles were analyzed.
Main Results:
- TFAs alone significantly increased aortic atherosclerotic lesions compared to control diets.
- Dietary cholesterol elevated serum cholesterol, an effect partially reduced by TFAs.
- TFAs did not exacerbate atherosclerosis in cholesterol-fed mice beyond the effects of cholesterol alone.
Conclusions:
- Dietary trans-fatty acids are independently atherogenic.
- TFAs do not potentiate the atherogenic effects of dietary cholesterol.
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