The study led by Einstein, MD, founding director of the Center for Advanced Science Research in Neuroscience Initiative at the CUNY Graduate Center (CUNY ASRC) and professor of biology and biochemistry at the CUNY Graduate Center, investigated how ceramide synthases 5 and 6 What are known enzymes? are responsible for the toxic effects of a diet containing palm oil on neurons in the central nervous system, increasing the severity of MS symptoms.
What is multiple sclerosis?
MS is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that causes widespread damage to the insulating myelin sheaths that protect nerves throughout the body. Current treatments focus on controlling the immune system response, but the exact mechanisms that contribute to neurodegeneration in MS are poorly understood. Previous work from the Cassia lab and others reported on the toxic effects of a high-fat diet on the severity of MS symptoms. In their study, the researchers explored possible mechanisms by which a diet rich in palm oil may harm neuronal health.
Also read: Important dietary choices to reduce the risk of multiple sclerosis; Doctor shared tips
Effect of palm oil rich diet on neurons:
Using the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) model of inflammatory demyelination, the research team found that a diet high in palm oil led to more severe disease in mice.
“We reasoned that inside neuronal cells, palm oil is converted into a toxic substance called C16 ceramide by specific enzymes called CerS5 and CerS6,” said lead investigator Casassia. “This ceramide is responsible for causing mitochondrial damage, which deprives neurons of the energy they need to combat inflammation in the brain. So we asked whether inactivating these enzymes would provide neuroprotection.”
Researchers found that when they genetically removed the enzymes CerS6 and CerS5 in neurons they could prevent neurodegeneration in experimental models of MS.
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“This also proved to be true when mice were fed a diet rich in palmitic acid,” said Damien Maréchal, co-first author of the paper and research associate in the Cassia lab. “This new information points to a specific metabolic pathway through which dietary fat may worsen MS symptoms.”
The paper’s findings have important implications for individuals suffering from MS, as well as physicians treating patients and neuroscientists researching the disease. This work reinforces that lifestyle choices, such as diet, can have a profound impact on the course of the disease. The study results build on previous hypotheses about careful dietary choices in managing MS symptoms. The findings also identify potential molecules that may help slow diet-induced symptom severity.
“Our research provides a molecular explanation for how palm oil depends on protecting neurons from the formation of molecules that damage them,” Cascia said. “We hope that this information can empower patients to make informed dietary decisions that can positively impact the course of the disease while identifying strategies to counteract the impact of CERS5 and CERS6 in a neuron-specific fashion.” Is.”
Also read: What is Guillain-Barré Syndrome?
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
