INSTITUTE OF PHYSIOLOGY CAS - The role of endocannabinoid system in metabolic effects of marine omega-3 phospholipids

Metabolic disturbances in obesity are associated with dysregulation of the endocannabinoid (EC) system. We have shown in mice fed an obesogenic high-fat diet that metabolic effects of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids were stronger when supplied in the phospholipid form (omega-3 PL) as compared with triacylglycerols (Rossmeisl et al. 2012. PloS One). These effects were associated with a more efficient modulation of major EC molecules in white adipose tissue (WAT).

In this project, we will characterize

omega-3-induced changes in the content of EPA, DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids in relevant lipid fractions from WAT, liver and plasma, and their relationship to the levels of EC molecules and metabolic profile during obesity development
mechanisms, by which omega-3 PL affect insulin sensitivity of the organism
changes in lipid metabolism of hepatocytes due to the modulation of the EC system in WAT by omega-3 PL
metabolic effects of omega-3 in transgenic mice carrying human PPARalpha.

Our results will help to clarify, how modulation of the EC system by omega-3 contributes to their beneficial effects in obesity.

Supported by the Project CSF (no. 14-09347S; 2014-2016) PI: Martin Rossmeisl, MD, PhD.