High fat diet consumption results in mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and oligodendrocyte loss in the central nervous system

Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis, 2020 · DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.165630 · Published: March 1, 2020

Endocrinology Neurology Nutrition & Dietetics

Simple Explanation

This research investigates how a diet high in saturated fat impacts the brain and spinal cord, focusing on cells called oligodendrocytes, which are essential for myelin production. The study found that a high-fat diet leads to the loss of oligodendrocyte progenitors, disrupts mitochondrial function, and increases oxidative stress in these cells. These findings suggest that a diet high in saturated fat can impair the health of the central nervous system by damaging cells crucial for myelin integrity.

Study Duration

4-12 Weeks

Participants

Male C57BL6/J mice

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Chronic high fat diet (HFD) consumption promotes loss of oligodendrocyte progenitors across the brain and spinal cord.
2
HFD-related changes in metabolic regulators, decreased mitochondrial function, and oxidative stress contribute to a loss of myelinating cells.
3
Increased apoptotic cell death signaling is underway in oligodendrocytes from mice chronically fed a HFD.

Research Summary

This study investigated the effects of a high fat diet (HFD) on oligodendrocytes and myelin in the central nervous system (CNS) of mice. Results showed that HFD consumption led to a loss of oligodendrocyte progenitors in the brain and spinal cord, along with mitochondrial dysfunction and increased oxidative stress. The study identifies HFD consumption as a key modifiable lifestyle factor impacting myelin integrity and highlights potential therapeutic targets for myelin protection and repair.

Practical Implications

Dietary Modifications

Reducing saturated fat intake may help protect myelin integrity in individuals at risk of or affected by demyelinating diseases.

Therapeutic Targets

Mitochondrial function, ER stress, and oxidative stress pathways are potential therapeutic targets for preventing oligodendrocyte loss and promoting myelin repair.

Lifestyle Interventions

Combining dietary modifications with exercise may help mitigate the negative effects of a high-fat diet on oligodendrocyte health and myelin integrity.

Study Limitations

1
The study was conducted on male mice, and the results may not be directly applicable to females.
2
The specific types and amounts of saturated fats used in the diet may not fully reflect human dietary patterns.
3
The study focused on relatively short-term HFD consumption (4-12 weeks); long-term effects may differ.

Your Feedback

Was this summary helpful?

Back to Endocrinology