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Propionate inhibits hepatocyte lipid synthesis
R S Wright1, J W Anderson, S R Bridges
1Metabolic Research Group, VA Medical Center, Lexington, Kentucky.
Summary
Propionate, a fiber metabolite, significantly inhibits cholesterol and fatty acid synthesis in rat liver cells. This suggests propionate may partially explain how oat bran lowers cholesterol levels in vivo.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Nutritional Science
- Metabolic Research
Background:
- Oat bran consumption is known to reduce serum cholesterol in humans and animals.
- Propionate, a short-chain fatty acid from soluble fiber fermentation, is a potential mechanism for this hypolipidemic effect.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the direct effect of propionate on cholesterol and fatty acid biosynthesis in rat hepatocytes.
- To determine if propionate mediates the lipid-lowering effects of soluble dietary fiber.
Main Methods:
- Hepatocyte lipid synthesis was measured in rats using radiolabeled precursors: [1-14C]acetate, 3H2O, and [2-14C]mevalonate.
- The impact of varying propionate concentrations on biosynthesis pathways was assessed.
Main Results:
- Propionate significantly inhibited cholesterol biosynthesis from [1-14C]acetate at 1.0 mM and from 3H2O and [2-14C]mevalonate at 2.5 mM.
- Fatty acid biosynthesis was also significantly inhibited by propionate at 2.5 mM using [1-14C]acetate.
Conclusions:
- Propionate demonstrates inhibitory effects on both cholesterol and fatty acid synthesis in vitro at physiologically relevant concentrations.
- These findings suggest propionate may be a key mediator of the hypolipidemic benefits associated with soluble dietary fiber intake.