The Potential of the Mediterranean Diet to Improve Mitochondrial Function in Experimental Models of Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome

Abstract

The abnormal expansion of body fat paves the way for several metabolic abnormalities including overweight, obesity, and diabetes, which ultimately cluster under the umbrella of metabolic syndrome (MetS). Patients with MetS are at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, morbidity, and mortality. The coexistence of distinct metabolic abnormalities is associated with the release of pro-inflammatory adipocytokines, as components of low-to-medium grade systemic inflammation and increased oxidative stress. Adopting healthy lifestyles, by using appropriate dietary regimens, contributes to the prevention and treatment of MetS. Metabolic abnormalities can influence the function and energetic capacity of mitochondria, as observed in many obesity-related cardio-metabolic disorders. There are preclinical studies both in cellular and animal models, as well as clinical studies, dealing with distinct nutrients of the Mediterranean diet (MD) and dysfunctional mitochondria in obesity and MetS. The term “Mitochondria nutrients” has been adopted in recent years, and it depicts the adequate nutrients to keep proper mitochondrial function. Different experimental models show that components of the MD, including polyphenols, plant-derived compounds, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, can improve mitochondrial metabolism, biogenesis, and antioxidant capacity. Such effects are valuable to counteract the mitochondrial dysfunction associated with obesity-related abnormalities and can represent the beneficial feature of polyphenols-enriched olive oil, vegetables, nuts, fish, and plant-based foods, as the main components of the MD. Thus, developing mitochondria-targeting nutrients and natural agents for MetS treatment and/or prevention is a logical strategy to decrease the burden of disease and medications at a later stage. In this comprehensive review, we discuss the effects of the MD and its bioactive components on improving mitochondrial structure and activity.

NAFLD, MAFLD, and beyond: one or several acronyms for better comprehension and patient care

“…Potential therapeutic target via the myostatin and/or activin/follistatin axis [139]. Can occur alone or combined with O-MAFLD, requiring double therapeutic approach GAFLD Genetics-associated fatty liver disease Genetic variants either monogenic or polygenic not necessarily causing metabolic abnormalities [140 Yet-to-be-defined subgroups Conditions of FLD where etiology remains (temporarily or constantly) undefined (e.g., autoimmune hepatitis [143]; viral hepatitis [144]), or plays an emerging role (e.g., thyroid subclinical dysfunction [145], mitochondrial dysfunction [40,82,146,147] Fig. 3 Venn diagrams summarizing the current debate about the nomenclature of NAFLD in relation to other causes of fatty liver disease (FLD).…”

The role of cholesterol and mitochondrial bioenergetics in activation of the inflammasome in IBD

“…Notably, the recovery of the mitochondrial function with correct cholesterol trafficking could be a potential therapeutic strategy for IBD. In addition, it has been discussed that the high prevalence and incidence in industrialized countries could be related to a Western diet, due to the high intake of saturated fatty acids, cholesterol, refined carbohydrates, and sugar may impact the inflammatory status becoming essential during disease pathogenesis (189). Therefore, changing towards an increase in the intake of whole grains, vegetables, fruit, seeds, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, with are part of a Mediterranean diet characterized by a higher content of phytochemicals and essential fatty acids could bring benefits to IBD patients.…”

Personalizing Nutrition Strategies: Bridging Research and Public Health

“…Conversely, Aleksandrova et al provides evidence that plant-based dietary patterns are associated with reduced levels of oxidative stress and inflammation and may be an effective method for the prevention of chronic diseases [ 127 ]. Concretely, polyphenols, plant-derived chemicals, and polyunsaturated fatty acids are just some of the MD ingredients that have been shown in several experimental settings to boost mitochondrial metabolism, biogenesis, and antioxidant capability ( Figure 2 ) [ 128 ]. Osorio-Conles et al also reported that a short-term MD intervention was associated with the elevated expression of genes involved in adipogenesis, angiogenesis, and autophagy [ 129 ].…”