• 2 Posts
  • 32 Comments
Joined 1 year ago
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Cake day: July 1st, 2023

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  • Abstract

    High protein intake is common in western societies and is often promoted as part of a healthy lifestyle; however, amino-acid-mediated mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signalling in macrophages has been implicated in the pathogenesis of ischaemic cardiovascular disease. In a series of clinical studies on male and female participants (NCT03946774 and NCT03994367) that involved graded amounts of protein ingestion together with detailed plasma amino acid analysis and human monocyte/macrophage experiments, we identify leucine as the key activator of mTOR signalling in macrophages. We describe a threshold effect of high protein intake and circulating leucine on monocytes/macrophages wherein only protein in excess of ∼25 g per meal induces mTOR activation and functional effects. By designing specific diets modified in protein and leucine content representative of the intake in the general population, we confirm this threshold effect in mouse models and find ingestion of protein in excess of ∼22% of dietary energy requirements drives atherosclerosis in male mice. These data demonstrate a mechanistic basis for the adverse impact of excessive dietary protein on cardiovascular risk.









  • +1 for the Croix de Fer.

    I have it’s sibling, the Tour de Fer. I’ve done many multi-day tours on it across many different terrains and through all sorts of weather, loaded up to the hilt with gear and me just shy of 200lbs. The bike has been rock solid, and I’ve no doubt could take me round the world if the opportunity ever arises.

    The only maintenance I’ve had to do has been consumables like brake pads, tyres, chain etc.