Although the relationship between cholesterol, triglycerides, and cardiovascular disease is well established, little is known about the role of the third major class of lipids – phospholipids. \u00a0In this regard, the intestinal microflora play a crucial role in that they digest and absorb many crucial nutrients, including lipids. \u00a0Therefore in this study the authors attempted to discover whether a\u00a0link exists between gut-flora-dependent\u00a0phospholipid metabolism and atherosclerosis risk through generation of pro-atherosclerotic metabolites.<\/p>\n
Three metabolites of the dietary lipid phosphatidylcholine \u2014 choline, trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and betaine \u2014 were firstly identified from a clinical cohort prior to the onset of a clinical cardiovascular event. Subsequently, a mouse model was used where dietary supplementation with choline, TMAO or betaine was found to upregulate multiple macrophage scavenger receptors linked to atherosclerosis, and supplementation with choline or TMAO promoted atherosclerosis. Lastly, studies using germ-free mice showed that suppression of intestinal microflora in atherosclerosis-prone mice inhibited dietary-choline-enhanced atherosclerosis.<\/p>\n
Conclusion<\/strong>:<\/p>\n Gut flora play an important role in the production of metabolites that induce atherosclerosis. \u00a0The results suggest that an appropriately targeted probiotic intervention may be of use in preventing cardiovascular disease.<\/p>\n