Modulation of muscle energy metabolism by bioactive compounds

Identifier:  TDX:1278

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/TDX1278

Authors:  Casanova Vallvé, Ester

Abstract:
The global goal of the present thesis is the development of a new preventative and therapeutic strategy that requires only minor modifications of dietary habits and simultaneously effective against obesity and its major associated diseases. For this study, we have selected food ingredients characteristic in healthy diets which has been documented beneficial effects on obesity or cardiovascular disease risk. These include plant polyphenols, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and proanthocyanidins as well as the sea fish omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Our work is focused on the mitochondrial function of skeletal muscle, a major player in the body’s overall nutrient balance, and adipose tissue, which is the key regulator of energy homeostasis in the organism affected by obesity and related diseases. Our results indicate a postprandial improvement with an increase of the fatty acid oxidation capacity, improving lipid profile and metabolic flexibility.