Characterization of the postprandial profile of endocannabinoids in women: Effects of aging

• Grant number: 23/02522-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: November 01, 2023
• End date: October 31, 2024
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biochemistry - Metabolism and Bioenergetics
• Principal Investigator: Jarlei Fiamoncini
• Grantee: Vinicius Bonfieti Mantovam
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 13/07914-8 - FoRC - Food Research Center, AP.CEPID

Abstract

Endocannabinoids are lipids derived from polyunsaturated fatty acids fromlong chains that combined with their synthesis and degradation enzymes and receptorsCB1 and CB2, comprise the endocannabinoid system, responsible for triggering severalphysiological effects. This study aims to clarify the relationship between menopause and changes inplasma concentration of endogenous cannabinoids during the postprandial period, whenthe development of a transient inflammatory response and other adaptations is observedmetabolic. To identify the effect of eating a meal on concentrationsendocannabinoid plasma concentrations, a dietary challenge will be performed, which consists of ingestingof a hypercaloric and hyperlipidic meal. Immediately before eating the mealtest and during the subsequent 6 hours, ten blood samples will be collected at intervalstime periods scheduled to assess changes in intermediary metabolism, inflammation andits regulation. Endocannabinoids will be quantified by liquid chromatography techniqueof high efficiency in reversed phase conjugated to mass spectrometry. The analysis ofSpearman's correlation will be used to evaluate the relationship between the concentrationplasma levels of endocannabinoids and markers of metabolism and inflammation. This study will bepioneer in evaluating the effects of menopause/aging on postprandial metabolismof endocannabinoids. The results may indicate new mechanisms for regulating themetabolism and postprandial inflammation and contribute to identify markers associated withdevelopment of chronic diseases.