Cholesterol efflux capacity of large, small and total HDL particles is unaltered by atorvastatin in patients with type 2 diabetes.

Background And Aims: Research on the biologic activities of HDL, such as cholesterol efflux capacity and HDL composition, has allowed the understanding of the effect of interventions directed to improve cardiovascular risk. Previously, statin therapy has shown conflicting results about its effects on cholesterol efflux capacity of HDL; the underlying mechanisms are unclear but studies with positive effects are associated with an increase of HDL-cholesterol levels. We investigated if 10 weeks of atorvastatin therapy changes HDL efflux capacity and the chemical composition of its subpopulations.

[Matricaria chamomilla (aqueous extract) improves atopic dermatitis-like lesions in a murine model].

Background: Matricaria Chamomilla L. (Mch), popularly known as chamomile, has been used for centuries as an herbolary remedy due to its broad clinical spectrum. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Mch associated to a vehicle with emollient function in induced atopic dermatitis (AD)-like lesions in a murine model.

[Caloric restriction: about its positive metabolic effects and cellular impact].

Caloric restriction, as a 30 to 60% decrease of ad libitum balanced caloric intake, without malnutrition, is the non-genetic strategy that has consistently extended the average and maximum lifespan of most living beings, and it has been tested from unicellular organisms like yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae to Rhesus primates. In addition, various genetic and pharmacological caloric restriction models have shown to protect against cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Primate studies suggest that this intervention delays the onset of age-related diseases; in humans, it has physiological, biochemical and metabolic effects decreasing diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk factor.