Director Science & Technology Center, Hills PNC Topeka, KS, United States
Abstract:
Background: 25-(OH) D provides nutrient and hormonal properties. Adult dogs may benefit from circulating concentrations above 100 ng/ml to support optimal health.
Objectives: Assess the miRNA profile in the plasma of dogs fed different concentrations of Vit D to understand the relationship between dietary vitamin D and circulating miRNAs Animals: Adult beagles housed at the Hill’s Pet Nutrition Center animal colony.
Methods: Five groups of dogs (n=8/group) were fed food of approximately 4000 kcal/kg according to AAFCO maintenance protocols for 6 months, containing one of the concentrations of vitamin D: 796, 3087, 5511, 7314, and 9992 IU/kg; dry matter). Blood samples were taken at baseline and at the end the study period. Plasma miRNA was assessed using Qiagen’s miRCURY PCR array and statistical analysis performed using their GeneGlobe portal.
Results: There was a significant increase in the levels of selected miRNAs with the highest dose of Vit D when compared to the controls (796 IU) including let-7b, let-7g, miR-16, miR-17, miR-18a, miR-20a, miR-31, miR-499a (p< 0.05). Several of these miRNAs attenuate the expression of pro-inflammatory genes including IL-12, IL-13, IL-23, TLR-4, NFkB pathway genes, and NLRP3 inflammasome. There was a significant downregulation of miRNAs including miR-34b and miR-96 with the highest dose (p< 0.05) which could result in decreased levels of selected pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Conclusion: The highest concentration of dietary vitamin D likely has a potential anti-inflammatory effect and may be beneficial for canine health. An anti-inflammatory effect would benefit dogs in aging and in conditions associated with excessive inflammation.
