The Effects of Fatty Acids on the Molecular Circadian Clock in Immortalized, Clonal Hypothalamic Neurons
Year: 2013
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Diets high in saturated fatty acids are associated with the development of circadian dysregulation, obesity, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Conversely, unsaturated fatty acids are now known to improve insulin sensitivity, reduce weight gain, and alleviate obesity-induced inflammation. The aforementioned effects of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids have also been identified in the hypothalamus; however, there is a paucity of studies regarding the role of unsaturated fatty acids in circadian rhythms. Therefore, a novel cell model was established to examine the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on circadian rhythms in hypothalamic neurons. The mHypoE-37 cell line expresses Bmal1, Per2, and Rev-erbα in a circadian manner. The saturated fatty acid, palmitate, was found to induce circadian dysregulation of the mHypoE-37 neurons, whereas the unsaturated fatty acid, docosahexaenoic acid, protected against palmitate-induced circadian changes. These studies are the first to identify the potential for unsaturated fatty acids to protect the circadian system.
Source: TSpace (University of Toronto)
Author: Greco, James
Language: English
Subfield: Endocrine and Autonomic Systems
Field: Neuroscience
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2618636890