Importance of functional food compounds in cardioprotection through action on the epigenome.

Food constituents can either promote cardiovascular health or serve in its demise. In view of the lack of more effective pharmacological interventions in cardiovascular disease (CVDs), attention has focused on the potential protective effects of diet. Food components and their metabolites are emerging as major regulators of the human epigenome, which is being linked to CVDs. In this review, we summarize data from studies that suggest an important role for bioactive food compounds in cardioprotection and the potential for harnessing the epigenome as a nutrient sensor target in CVDs. While clinical data strongly support a role for effective diet intervention in CVDs protection, studies linking changes to human epigenome are now warranted for mechanistic insight and development of personalized care

Shortened telomere length in bipolar disorder: a comparison of the early and late stages of disease

Objective:: Bipolar disorder (BD) has been associated with increased rates of age-related diseases, such as type II diabetes, metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disorders. Several biological findings have been associated with age-related disorders, including increased oxidative stress, inflammation, and telomere shortening. The objective of this study was to compare telomere length among participants with BD at early and late stages and age- and gender-matched healthy controls. Methods:: Twenty-six euthymic subjects with BD and 34 healthy controls were recruited. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood and mean telomere length was measured using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Results:: Telomere length was significantly shorter in both the early and late subgroups of BD subjects when compared to the respective controls (p = 0.002 and p = 0.005, respectively). The sample size prevented additional subgroup analyses, including potential effects of medication, smoking status, and lifestyle. Conclusion:: This study is concordant with previous evidence of telomere shortening in BD, in both early and late stages of the disorder, and supports the notion of accelerated aging in BD

Analyzing leukocyte telomere length in bipolar disorder: Authors' reply

Analyzing leukocyte telomere length in bipolar disorder: Authors' repl