Siste publikasjoner - Avdeling for Ernæringsvitenskap

• Zadnik, V.; Konjević, A. Duratović; Jurtela, M.; Lokar, K.; Bric, N. & Zagar, T. [Vis alle 22 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Mapping population-based cancer registries in Europe: coverage, data availability, and capacity for real-world data generation. ESMO Real World Data and Digital Oncology. 14. doi: 10.1016/j.esmorw.2026.100785.
• Amberntsson, Anna; Paulsen, Mari Mohn; Bianchi, Marta Angela; Birgisdottir, Bryndis Eva; Biltoft-Jensen, Anja Pia & Konglevoll, Dina Moxness [Vis alle 9 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Exploring an energy-density adjustment to the Nutri-Score algorithm for general foods. European Journal of Nutrition. ISSN 1436-6207. 65(7). doi: 10.1007/s00394-026-04105-5. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Abstract Purpose: The Nutri-Score categorizes foods by nutritional value per 100 g or 100 ml, which may lead to poor discriminatory ability for products with low energy density and large portion sizes, like ready-to-eat meals. We hypothesized that adapting the Nutri-Score algorithm to account for variation in energy density could better capture nutritional quality, particularly in lower energy-dense foods like ready meals, without substantially affecting other food scores. The aim of this study was to perform a proof‑of‑concept evaluation of adapting the Nutri-Score algorithm for general foods to different levels of energy density. Methods: This study utilized the Norwegian food databases Tradesolution and Unil ( N  = 25,813) to compare the energy-adjusted algorithm with the Nutri-Score 2023. Results: The energy-adjusted Nutri-Score shifted food categorizations for 22% of products. Foods with low energy density, such as ready meals, showed increased scoring variation, indicating a more nuanced nutritional quality assessment, as intended. In these foods, we also saw a decline in favourable scores and an increase in unfavourable ones. However, high-energy-density food categories, like cakes and pastries, more often received more favourable scores. Also, the discriminatory ability between low-fat and full-fat products was reduced. Conclusion: While the energy-adjusted Nutri-Score improved scoring differentiation for certain low-energy-density foods, it showed unfavourable side-effects, indicating that overall, it is not superior to the Nutri-Score 2023. Nonetheless, adapting the algorithm to energy density offers potential for improved nutrient profiling methodologies in specific contexts. Further refinement of the weighting system could address observed weaknesses, optimizing this approach for broader application.

• Gervin, Kristina; Kverneland, Magnhild; Nakken, Karl Otto; Rudi, Knut; Iversen, Per Ole & Selmer, Kaja Kristine (2026). Epigenetic ageing is accelerated in drug-resistant epilepsy and dynamically modulated during ketogenic diet therapy. EBioMedicine. 131. doi: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2026.106449.
• Myhre, Jannicke Borch; Totland, Torunn Holm & Andersen, Lene Frost (2026). Validity of self-reported educational attainment collected as part of a telephone interview in a Norwegian dietary study. Journal of Public Health Research. ISSN 2279-9028. 15(3). doi: 10.1177/22799036261481566. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Daele, Wim Van; Tadeo, Raul Yhossef Tito; Perera, Jennifer; Tshokey, Tshokey; Iversen, Per Ole & Jayasinghe, Saroj [Vis alle 12 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Toward ethical human microbiome research: improving health through radical interdisciplinary and intercultural co-laboration. Microbiome. 14. doi: 10.1186/s40168-026-02340-w. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Abstract As human microbiome research is globalizing, it raises ethical concerns regarding the European and North American dominance in the field, which may reproduce a colonial bias and perpetuate inequities in global health research and outcomes. We suggest disentangling this ethical quandary into three main concerns: 1) scientific bias toward European and North American populations; 2) limited meaningful community inclusion, participation, and ownership, and 3) scant significant inclusion of diverse global researchers. We then formulate three recommendations for their resolution, deploying co-laboration —joint labor of diverse partners in generating synergies between diverse disciplines, cultures, and knowledges around shared concerns—and co-laborative science —a form of citizen science based on such synergies between diverse partners—to guide meaningful inclusive, participatory, and ethical human microbiome research. To conclude, we promote a programmatic list for putting co-laborative ethical science into practice, benefiting global communities, individuals, and researchers alike and decolonizing and improving health worldwide.

• Vandraas, Kathrine Flørenes; Andersen, Sarah Hjorth; Trewin-Nybråten, Cassia Bree; Andreassen, Bettina Kulle; Blix, Egil Støre & Naume, Bjørn [Vis alle 9 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Translating CLEOPATRA into routine practice: National treatment patterns and survival for patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer. Breast. ISSN 0960-9776. 89. doi: 10.1016/j.breast.2026.104852. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Introduction Amplification of the epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) gene occurs in 15-20% of breast cancers and was historically associated with poor prognosis. The CLEOPATRA trial established pertuzumab added to trastuzumab and chemotherapy as standard of care for metastatic HER2-positive breast cancer, demonstrating a 15.7-month improvement in median overall survival (OS). Strict trial inclusion criteria may limit generalizability to clinical practice. Population-based data can assess whether these survival benefits translate to real-world outcomes. Methods Women diagnosed with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer in 2012–2021 were identified through the Cancer Registry of Norway and linked to health and treatment databases. Patients were categorized by treatment regimen and year of treatment initiation: pre-CLEOPATRA (2012–2014; trastuzumab ± chemotherapy) and post-CLEOPATRA (2015–2021; trastuzumab + pertuzumab ± chemotherapy). OS was estimated using Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression adjusted for clinical, and socioeconomic factors. Outcomes were benchmarked against CLEOPATRA. Results The cohort comprised 329 women, 23% were aged ≥65 years. Seventy-eight patients (24%) received pre-CLEOPATRA regimens and 251 (76%) post-CLEOPATRA regimens; 59% met minimum one CLEOPATRA exclusion criterion. First-line dual HER2 blockade increased from 0% in 2012 to 75% in 2021. Median OS improved from 69 months to 96 months post-CLEOPATRA. Four-year OS increased from 59% to 65% (adjusted hazard ratio 0.77, 95% CI 0.53–1.12). Real-world OS was consistent with CLEOPATRA outcomes. Conclusions Nationwide real-world data demonstrate favorable survival outcomes following adoption of dual anti-HER2 therapy. While these findings are broadly consistent with the CLEOPATRA trial, the observational design does not allow direct assessment of equivalence between studies.

• Nothnagel, Patrizia Maria Christiane; Meslin, Paul-Arthur Richard; Wik, Jonas Aakre; Dufour, Damien; Strøm, Yunna Erika & Bjørås, Magnar [Vis alle 11 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Transient SUMOylation inhibition in human pre-adipocytes stably imprints a transcriptional beiging fate. Nucleic Acids Research (NAR). ISSN 0305-1048. 54(6), s. 1–22. doi: 10.1093/nar/gkag232. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  SUMOylation regulates chromatin states and transcriptional programs that preserve cellular identity, yet how perturbation of the SUMOylation pathway impacts adipocyte plasticity remains unclear. Here, we show that brief pharmacologic inhibition of SUMOylation in human pre-adipocytes using TAK-981 primes stable de novo beige differentiation in the presence of the PPARG agonist rosiglitazone. Transient TAK-981 exposure produces changes in the transcriptome and metabolism of mature adipocytes, including robust induction of canonical beiging markers like UCP1 and increased mitochondrial respiration. Mechanistically, ATAC-seq and RNA-sequencing revealed immediate chromatin remodeling and early mobilization of CEBP family members, followed by stable activation of CEBPA and PPARG regulatory networks. ChIP experiments demonstrated loss of H3K27me3 and gain of H3K27ac at PPAR response elements at thermogenic enhancers, and increased PPARG occupancy across the UCP1 regulatory unit. This mechanism is enforced by enhanced cAMP-PKA-p38 signaling and stabilization of beiging transcription activators. We propose that transient relief of SUMO-mediated repression unlocks dominant regulatory units, notably the UCP1 enhancer cluster, producing a monomorphic reprogramming toward adaptive thermogenesis. These findings identify SUMOylation as a reversible epigenetic barrier to adipocyte beiging and suggest that temporally controlled SUMO pathway inhibition combined with PPARG activation could be exploited to modulate adipose tissue thermogenic capacity.

• Sousa, Ana Rita Sequeira de; Klemsdal, Tor Ole; Ghiasvand, Reza; Svendsen, Mette; Birkeland, Kåre Inge & Sveen, Kari Anne (2026). Lifestyle modifications in individuals with blood pressure beyond treatment target despite pharmacological treatment: design and baseline characteristics of the MeDiPA randomised controlled trial. Blood Pressure. ISSN 0803-7051. 35(1). doi: 10.1080/08037051.2026.2705014. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Birkeland, Einar Elvbakken; Kværner, Ane Sørlie; Avershina, Ekaterina; Johannessen, Cecilie Bucher -; Bemanian, Vahid & Blix, Hege Salvesen [Vis alle 14 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Microbiome signatures for detection of colorectal lesions in population-based FIT screening. Nature Communications. 17. doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-75962-1. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  The gut microbiome has been linked to colorectal cancer (CRC) development, with microbe-based classifiers distinguishing between CRC patients and healthy controls. However, there is a lack of studies addressing the utility of the microbiome in screening-relevant settings, including both precancers and CRC. In this Norwegian population-based study, we used fecal immunochemical test (FIT) leftovers from 1034 FIT-positive (i.e. positive for occult blood) screening participants for gut metagenome profiling using shotgun sequencing. Using comprehensive clinical, demographic, and lifestyle data, we modeled gut microbiome associations with CRC screening outcomes. Combining microbial profiles with quantitative FIT values improved detection of premalignant lesions beyond optimizing the FIT value alone, even after incorporating established CRC risk factors. Still, the FIT value maintained superior discriminative ability for CRC. We confirmed enrichment of bacteria such as Fusobacterium nucleatum and Peptostreptococcus stomatis in CRC. In contrast, other bacteria previously associated with the presence of CRC, including Hungatella hathewayi and Clostridium symbiosum, as well as pks-negative Escherichia coli, were enriched in those with no neoplastic findings, suggesting that in a FIT-positive population their presence may reflect other conditions causing intestinal bleeding rather than underlying neoplasia. Microbial profiles were predominantly associated with distal rather than proximal lesions. Together, our findings highlight the potential for microbial markers to improve FIT-based CRC screening, especially by differentiating those with premalignant lesions from those who test FIT-positive for other reasons.

• Rinde, Ludvig Balteskard; Hopstock, Laila Arnesdatter; Lundblad, Marie Wasmuth; Rinde, Nikoline Balteskard; Brobak, Karl Marius & Norvik, Jon Viljar Porserud [Vis alle 13 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Higher habitual protein intake is not linked to decline of iohexol-measured GFR in adults ≥40 years. Clinical Kidney Journal (CKJ). ISSN 2048-8505. 19(8), s. 1–10. doi: 10.1093/ckj/sfag235. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Holven, Kirsten Bjørklund; Dahl, Tuva Børresdatter; Bålsrud, Pia; Christensen, Jacob Juel; Ottestad, Inger Olaug & Rundblad, Amanda [Vis alle 15 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Cetoleic acid rich fish oil increases plasma levels of eicosapentaenoic and docosapentaenoic acids in healthy volunteers: a double-blinded, randomised, controlled trial. British Journal of Nutrition. ISSN 0007-1145. s. 1–28. doi: 10.1017/S0007114526107958. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Intake of fish and supplementation with n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are associated with reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Cetoleic acid promotes n-3 PUFA generation in salmon and human HepG2 cells, but data in humans are scarce. To explore the effect of cetoleic acid on n-3 PUFA levels, we performed a double-blinded randomised controlled trial in healthy adults (37 females and 12 males) for four weeks. The participants were randomised to consume either capsules with mackerel oil, naturally rich in cetoleic acid, or a control oil, both with a similar concentration of n-3 PUFA. Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04841044). Supplements with mackerel oil resulted in higher plasma levels of the n-3 PUFAs 20:4n-3 (Eicosatetraenoic acid) and 20:5n-3 (Eicosapentaenoic acid) as compared with those receiving control oil. In addition, those who received the cetoleic-rich capsules had higher levels of 20:4n-3 in the RBC membrane and a decrease in expression of elongation of very long chain fatty acids protein 5 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. We found no differences in lipid, glucose or C-reactive protein between the two treatment groups, consisting of healthy subjects. Our data suggests that supplementation with cetoleic-rich mackerel oil may result in increased levels of certain n-3 PUFAs. Further studies should include patients with or at risk for metabolic and CVD.

• Kvammen, Janne Anita; Thomassen, Rut Anne; Godang, Kristin; Buchner, Jochen; Bollerslev, Jens & Bentsen, Beint Sigmund [Vis alle 8 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Body Composition, Bone Health, and Dietary Intake in Children After Allogeneic Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation. Nutrients. 18(13). doi: 10.3390/nu18132193. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Amberntsson, Anna; Paulsen, Mari Mohn; Randby, Jorunn Sofie; Lund-Iversen, Kaja; Brantsæter, Anne Lise & Andersen, Lene Frost [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). The potential of Nutri-Score to differentiate foods in regulating food marketing to children. European Journal of Nutrition. ISSN 1436-6207. 65(5). doi: 10.1007/s00394-026-04041-4. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Abstract Purpose: To evaluate the potential of Nutri-Score to identify foods unsuitable for marketing to children by assessing its agreement with two established nutrient profiling models: WHO-EURO 2023 and the Norwegian Regulation on Marketing (NORMA). Further, we explored the impact of additional criteria to improve agreement. Addition, we evaluated the agreement between a modified Nutri-Score, the «NewTools-score», and WHO-EURO 2023 and NORMA. Methods: Products from the Norwegian food composition table (N = 1,944) were used to explore scenarios for Nutri-Score (and NewTools-score) against WHO-EURO and NORMA. The scenarios were: 1) All products scoring C-E not permitted for marketing, 2) Same as scenario 1, but with additional criteria for trans fatty acids, non-sugar sweeteners (NSS), and added sugar for beverages. For NORMA, a third scenario was tested as an extension of scenario 2, additionally banning selected food categories from marketing. Agreement was assessed through cross classification. Results: Under scenario 1, 53% of products were classified as Nutri-Score C-E, and 47% and 23% not permitted for marketing under WHO-EURO and NORMA, respectively. Overall agreement between Nutri-Score C-E and WHO-EURO was 84%, and 66% with NORMA. However, Nutri-Score allowed some products within unhealthy food categories, e.g., ice creams with NSS. Applying additional criteria in scenarios 2 and 3 had important effects on banning such products. Results for the NewTools-score were almost identical. Conclusion: The Nutri-Score and the NewTools-score may be used for identifying a high proportion of products unsuitable for marketing to children. However, some additional criteria, including a complete ban from marketing in selected food categories, seems warranted to better protect children from exposure to marketing of unhealthy products.

• Siwa, Maria; Banik, Anna; Cereijo, Luis; Herstad, Sondre Haugsbø; Lakerveld, Jeroen & Lien, Nanna [Vis alle 9 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Implementation Strategies Used in Effective Policies to Combat Obesity in Socioeconomically Disadvantaged Communities: Systematic Review. Obesity Reviews. ISSN 1467-7881. doi: 10.1111/obr.70183. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  ABSTRACT Introduction The effectiveness of obesity prevention or obesity reduction policies is co‐determined by policy content, the implementation process, and contextual factors. This systematic review provides insight into implementation strategies used in whole‐of‐community obesity prevention policies aimed at changes in two types of outcomes: (1) a reduction in obesity/overweight prevalence, body mass index–related outcomes, and other weight‐related outcomes, or (2) a change in nutrition behaviors, physical activity, and sedentary behaviors or screen time. We specifically examined implementation strategies using the Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) framework, focusing on policies implemented in low socioeconomic status communities. Methods Following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, eight databases were searched. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tool. The efficacy of implementation strategies was considered supported if at least 66% of the studies that applied respective strategies reported significant improvements for a given outcome type across at least three studies. Results A total of 29 original studies were included. Fifteen implementation strategies from the ERIC framework were consistently associated with favorable outcomes. These strategies included altering incentive structures, assessing community readiness, and using data warehousing techniques. Six additional non–ERIC strategies (e.g., cultural adaptation and grassroots mobilization) received support across different outcome domains. Most studies (72%) had a low risk of bias. Conclusion Findings may help prioritize implementation strategies that may drive the success of whole‐of‐community obesity policies targeting disadvantaged populations. The results suggest a need to expand existing implementation taxonomies to include community‐driven strategies.

• Amberntsson, Anna; Abel, Marianne Hope; Paulsen, Mari Mohn; Andersen, Lene Frost; Øyen, Jannike & Rosendahl-Riise, Hanne [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Diet quality and risk of using medication for hypertension up to 11 years after delivery: Testing the predictive validity of a proposed revision of the Nutri-Score and the current Nutri-Score in the NewTools project. British Journal of Nutrition. ISSN 0007-1145. doi: 10.1017/s0007114526107697. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive validity of a proposed revision of the Nutri-Score and the current Nutri-Score by investigating associations between the diet quality scores measured in mid-pregnancy and the risk of dispended prescription of medications for hypertension up to 11 years following delivery, and blood pressure mid-pregnancy. The study population (N=70,730) were participants in the Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study. Food intake was assessed mid-pregnancy using a food frequency questionnaire. Nutritional scores for each food item were calculated based on content of energy, sugars, saturated fat, salt, fibre, protein, fruit, vegetables, and legumes. Diet quality scores were derived using energy-weighted means of nutritional scores. Anti-hypertensive medications were registered in the national prescription database. We estimated hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) using Cox regression models. During a mean follow-up of 6 years, 4,736 (6.7%) women got dispended prescription of medications for hypertension. There was a non-linear association between diet quality and hypertension medication. Compared with the median diet quality score, poorer diet quality (90 th percentile of the score) was associated with higher risk of medications for hypertension (HR=1.08, 95% CI 1.02-1.14) and cross-sectional high diastolic blood pressure (odds ratio=1.18, 95% CI 1.03-1.32). Both diet quality scores yielded similar results overall. Poorer diet quality during pregnancy, assessed with a proposed version, and the current Nutri-Score, were associated with a higher risk of medications for hypertension, indicating its usefulness as a valuable tool for guiding consumers and improving public health.

• Langslet, Gisle; Kollstad, Synne; Jørstad, Øystein Kalsnes; Erke, Maja Gran; Retterstøl, Kjetil & Holven, Kirsten Bjørklund (2026). Retinal findings in familial hypercholesterolemia: An exploratory case-control study. Atherosclerosis Plus. ISSN 2667-0909. 65. doi: 10.1016/j.athplu.2026.100571. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Jensen, Silje Marie; Holven, Kirsten Bjørklund; Ulven, Stine Marie; Anfinsen, Åslaug Matre; Dierkes, Jutta & Lysne, Vegard [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Lipoprotein metabolism and inflammation in healthy young subjects – exploring the postprandial and postabsorptive phases following intake of a standardized meal. Atherosclerosis Plus. ISSN 2667-0909. 65. doi: 10.1016/j.athplu.2026.100572. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background and aims: Commonly measured cardiometabolic biomarkers have not been systematically characterized across the long-term continuum of the postprandial and postabsorptive phases. The aim of the present study was to evaluate how the exact time since last meal impacts test results for lipoprotein particles and inflammatory biomarkers. Methods: We used data from a trial where 34 normal-weighted males and females aged 20-30 y were included. Subjects fasted 12 h, had blood sampled at baseline, then consumed a standardized, habitual breakfast meal, and had blood sampled 13 more times over the next 24 h. NMR metabolomics was used to quantify lipoprotein subclasses and various biomarkers, and ELISA to analyze VCAM-1, ICAM-1, E-selectin, and IL-6. We characterized the postprandial and postabsorptive responses using visualizations and non-linear mixed effects models. Results: Six VLDL subclasses increased by 11-429% within 2-4 h postprandially before returning to baseline levels, followed by another increase 8-10 h after intake of the breakfast meal. IDL and three LDL subclasses increased around 10-12% over 24 h. Four HDL subclasses showed an inverse association with VLDL subclasses, reaching their lowest levels about 1 h after the meal and peaking after 8-10 h with a 5-15% increase from baseline. Participants had an average increase of 325% in IL-6 10 h after breakfast, while other inflammatory biomarkers showed little change over time. For most biomarkers, males generally exhibited higher baseline concentrations compared to females, however the responses over time remained similar. Conclusions: Baseline levels and time of return to baseline varied between individuals, with some sex-specific differences in responses. TG-rich lipoproteins and VLDL increased postprandially and normalized by 12-24 h, whereas IDL and LDL showed minor early changes but increased by 24 h. IL-6 increased markedly during the first 10 h and returned to baseline by 12-24 h, while other inflammatory markers changed little.

• Kjendbakke, Ida; Selmer, Kaja Kristine; Nakken, Karl Otto; Hofoss, Dag; Iversen, Per Ole & Kverneland, Magnhild (2026). Micronutrient intake in adults with drug-resistant epilepsy treated with the modified Atkins diet needs monitoring. Frontiers in Nutrition. 13. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2026.1797011. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Basak, Sanjay; Varma, Saikanth; Nag, Subhalakshmi & Duttaroy, Asim Kanti (2026). Transgenerational exposure to plastics-derived endocrine‐disrupting bisphenol A and its analogs on male infertility: impact of gut dysbiosis and epigenetic regulation. Frontiers in Endocrinology. 17. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2026.1799472. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Limani, Naman; Henriksen, Hege Berg; Minge, Mina Marie; Sandoval, Viviana; Landberg, Rikard & Lindqvist, Helen M. [Vis alle 9 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Effect of different sources of saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids on postprandial inflammation: A double-blind randomized crossover trial. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN. ISSN 2405-4577. 74. doi: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2026.103335. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Meshkovska, Biljana; Zolfaghari, Mahshid; Brandvik, Caroline Løvik; Klepp, Knut-Inge; Kopainsky, Birgit & Lie, Hanne Cathrine [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Adoption of the Norwegian School Fruit Program: A Qualitative Study on Barriers and Facilitators. Global Implementation Research and Applications. doi: 10.1007/s43477-026-00238-1. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  The Norwegian School Fruit Program is financed by parents or local municipalities. The aim of this study was to explore contextual barriers and facilitators that influence the adoption of the program by schools using the Context and Implementation of Complex Interventions (CICI) framework. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 21 participants (mainly principals) from 20 lower secondary schools (classes 8–10). We analyzed the data using a deductive qualitative approach based on the CICI framework. We compared findings across schools offering the program (1) with no-parental-payment, (2) by parental subscription, and schools that (3) discontinued or (4) never offered the program. Economic costs were perceived as the main barrier to adoption across all schools. Although most schools recognized the need for such a program, some preferred to make their own arrangements. Except for schools offering the parental subscription option, many schools perceived asking parents to pay for the program as unfair, not in line with Norwegian values, and unlikely to allow the program to reach those who need it the most. Further barriers were the lack of legislation making the program obligatory and potential political changes causing uncertainty regarding the programme’s continuation from one year to the next. Social aspects of eating together were recognized as a facilitator. Food provision programs should be compatible with school priorities such as academic performance and mental health. Context and setting are dynamic and should be continuously evaluated to ensure they are in line with evolving school priorities and needs.

• Lindstad, Tuva Marie; Pourteymour, Shirin; Lee-Ødegård, Sindre; Drevon, Christian André & Norheim, Frode Amador (2026). Structured Exercise Interventions and Hepatic-Metabolic Outcomes in Adults with MASLD: A Narrative Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. ISSN 1661-6596. 27(7). doi: 10.3390/ijms27072941. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Ramanathan, Jayanthi; Sullivan, David; Watts, Gerald; Holven, Kirsten Bjørklund & Tiong, Yee Sian (2026). Familial hypercholesterolemia in pregnancy. Current Opinion in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Obesity. ISSN 1752-296X. Publish Ahead of Print. doi: 10.1097/MED.0000000000000954. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Moshina, Nataliia; Gjesvik, Jonas; Castells, Xavier; Larsen, Marthe; Ursin, Giske & Hofvind, Solveig Sand-Hanssen (2026). Breast cancer mortality among women who have attended BreastScreen Norway, 1996-2023. Breast Cancer Research. ISSN 1465-5411. 28(1). doi: 10.1186/s13058-026-02244-5. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Yadav, Ajay; Richartz, Nina; Bhagwat, Sampada; Burman, Marta Maria; Munthe-Kaas, Monica Cheng & Skålhegg, Bjørn Steen [Vis alle 9 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Starvation of leukemic cells enhances DNA damage-induced apoptosis in vitro via ROS/p38 MAPK and prevents leukemia progression in fasting xenograft mice. Journal of Biological Chemistry. ISSN 0021-9258. 302(3). doi: 10.1016/j.jbc.2026.111143. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Most children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) achieve long-term survival due to intensive multimodal chemotherapy. However, the use of cytotoxic DNA-damaging agents is frequently associated with severe long-term side effects, prompting continued efforts to improve treatment strategies. This study explores the potential of starving the leukemic cells to enhance the efficacy of DNA-damaging therapy in ALL. Previous work demonstrated that cAMP signaling attenuates DNA damage-induced apoptosis in ALL cells, both in vitro and in a xenograft model. The current findings show that glucose and serum deprivation reverse the effect of cAMP, converting it from a survival factor to a promoter of DNA damage-induced apoptosis in ALL-derived cell lines and patient-derived leukemic cells in vitro. The starvation-induced sensitization was independent of p53 but was shown to require increased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In turn, the elevated ROS levels enhanced the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 (p38 MAPK). The resulting augmented cell death was inhibited both by the ROS scavenger N-acetyl cysteine and the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB 202190. The translational potential of increasing the efficacy of DNA damaging agents in starving ALL cells was supported by in vivo data showing that intermittent fasting, combined with subtherapeutic doses of irradiation, significantly inhibits the leukemia progression in a xenograft model of severe combined immunodeficiency mice.

• Holven, Kirsten Bjørklund; Raal, Frederick J.; Watts, Gerald F.; Christensen, Jacob Juel & Lennep, Jeanine Roeters van (2026). Challenges in the care of woman with familial hypercholesterolaemia during the reproductive period – current evidence and practical guidance. Atherosclerosis. ISSN 0021-9150. 415. doi: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2026.120679. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Olsen, Thomas; Elshorbagy, Amany; Tore, Elena C.; Bastani, Nasser Ezzatkhah; Stolt, Emma Theresia Kjelland & Blokland, Gabriëlla A.M. [Vis alle 16 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Higher plasma serine levels are associated with favorable values of metabolic health markers among middle-aged and older adults in The Maastricht Study. GeroScience. ISSN 2509-2715. doi: 10.1007/s11357-026-02237-4. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Laboratory studies indicate a mechanistic role for serine in the metabolic benefits induced by dietary restriction of methionine and cysteine. To investigate the association of plasma serine with metabolic health markers in humans, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis of a subset of data from The Maastricht Study (n = 1199). Linear regression analyses (adjusted for confounding variables) were conducted to investigate whether plasma serine is associated with markers of lipid metabolism, glucose homeostasis, and body composition. Interaction analyses were conducted to investigate whether sex, diabetes status, and plasma total cysteine modify the association of serine with metabolic markers. Correlations between dietary intake of sulfur amino acids and plasma amino acids, including methionine and total cysteine, were also investigated. Elevated plasma serine was associated with favorable changes in markers of lipid metabolism (triglycerides, total cholesterol, and indices of multiple fatty acid desaturases), glucose homeostasis (insulin resistance and glucose tolerance), fat utilization (β-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, and acetone), and body composition (visceral and subcutaneous adipose depots, liver fat, and body mass index). Some associations were stronger in males than in females and in individuals with prediabetes and diabetes than in those without diabetes. Associations of plasma serine with body mass index, total fat mass, total lean mass, and subcutaneous adipose tissue weakened as plasma cysteine increased. Combined methionine and cysteine intake was inversely associated with plasma serine. Findings suggest that plasma serine is strongly associated with improved metabolic health in humans. Additional studies are required to confirm whether the associations are causal.

• Ølnes, Åsa Schawlann; Teigen, Marianne; Strøm, Thea Bismo; Arnesen, Erik Kristoffer; Rimbert, Antoine & Eggen, Anne Elise [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Genetic testing in individuals with extreme HDL-C levels: Diagnostic yield and clinical implications from the Tromsø Study. PLOS ONE. 21(4 April). doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0344627. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Aim This study aimed to assess the prevalence of genetic variants responsible for extreme levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and evaluate the adequacy of current thresholds for genetic testing of HDL-related dyslipidemia. Methods Using data from the Tromsø Study, a population-based cohort in Northern Norway, we identified 210 individuals with HDL-C levels ≤ 0.5 mmol/L or ≥ 3.0 mmol/L. Six HDL-related genes (ABCA1, APOA1, CETP, LCAT, PLTP, SCARB1) were sequenced in these participants. We classified variants according to ACMG guidelines, incorporating functional assays and UK Biobank data for additional phenotype-genotype associations. Results We identified 38 variants of interest across six HDL-related genes, of which 10 were considered potentially causative, found in 14 individuals. Genetic causes were detected in 33.3% of individuals with low HDL-C and 5.05% of those with high HDL-C. Sex-specific analyses showed that using HDL-C thresholds aligned with population distributions improved detection of individuals with pathogenic variants, particularly among women with high HDL-C and men with low HDL-C. These findings suggest that current uniform thresholds may overlook clinically relevant cases and that incorporating sex-specific HDL-C distributions could enhance the identification of individuals with suspected genetic HDL disorders. Conclusions Genetic testing for HDL-related dyslipidemia is underutilized, with many individuals not meeting the current extreme HDL-C threshold criteria. Revised sex-specific thresholds for genetic testing will improve the identification of pathogenic variants and provide more accurate diagnoses of HDL-related disorders. Continued research is essential to refine our understanding of HDL genetics and its clinical implications.

• Bålsrud, Pia; Ulven, Stine Marie; Hjartåker, Anette; Ottestad, Inger Olaug; Retterstøl, Kjetil & Schwab, Ursula [Vis alle 9 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Association between dietary protein intake and frailty index among home-dwelling older adults; an 8-year follow-up study. The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging. ISSN 1279-7707. 30(6). doi: 10.1016/j.jnha.2026.100850. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Gervin, Kristina; Kverneland, Magnhild; Nakken, Karl Otto; Rudi, Knut; Iversen, Per Ole & Landmark, Cecilie Johannessen [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). DNA methylation of antiseizure medication metabolism genes and pharmacokinetic changes in adult epilepsy patients treated with the modified Atkins diet. Genes & Nutrition. ISSN 1555-8932. 21. doi: 10.1186/s12263-026-00796-x. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background The modified Atkins diet is increasingly used as an adjunctive therapy for drug-resistant epilepsy. Recent evidence suggests that such dietary interventions may affect the pharmacokinetics of antiseizure medications and induce DNA methylation changes. However, it remains unclear whether epigenetic regulation of drug-metabolizing enzymes contributes to variability in medication serum levels. Results We analyzed 58 adults with drug-resistant epilepsy treated with a modified Atkins diet for 12 weeks. DNA methylation was profiled in peripheral blood before diet initiation (baseline) and after 4 weeks and 12 weeks using a genome-wide array. A total of 131 cytosine-phosphate-guanine (CpG) sites mapped to 13 candidate genes involved in antiseizure medication metabolism were assessed. One CpG in the CES1 gene showed significant methylation changes from baseline to 4 weeks, 12 weeks, and across all timepoints (FDR = 0.0018), indicating consistent longitudinal effects. Repeated measures correlation analyses were used to evaluate within-individual associations between DNA methylation and antiseizure medication serum concentrations. Two CpG–drug associations showed strong positive intra-individual correlations: CYP3A5 methylation was significantly associated with carbamazepine serum levels (repeated measures correlation coefficient = 0.81, FDR = 0.023), whereas CYP3A4 methylation showed a similarly strong but borderline association with topiramate (correlation coefficient = 0.76, FDR = 0.051). Conclusions This study finds that a modified Atkins diet may be associated with DNA methylation variation at genes involved in drug metabolism. Furthermore, DNA methylation levels were strongly associated with individual serum concentrations of certain antiseizure medications. These findings are consistent with the concept of a diet–epigenome–drug metabolism axis and warrant further investigation in larger studies to assess clinical implications for personalized dietary and pharmacological management in epilepsy.

• Vetter, Valentin Max; Junge, Marit Philine; Drevon, Christian André; Gundersen, Thomas Erik; Homann, Jan & Lill, Christina M. [Vis alle 11 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Comparing fourteen consensus biomarkers of aging: epigenetic pace of aging as the strongest predictor of mortality in BASE-II. Biomarker Research. 14. doi: 10.1186/s40364-026-00909-z. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background In many countries, lifespan has been increasing faster than healthspan, leading to more years spent with late-life disease and highlighting the need for reliable biomarkers to measure biological aging. Methods We used data from the Berlin Aging Study II (BASE-II, 60–80 years of age at baseline, average follow-up 7.4 ± 1.5 years, range 3.9–10.4, n = 1,083) to compare 14 biomarkers of aging recently consented by an expert panel for the use as outcome measures in intervention studies: physiological (insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), growth-differentiating factor-15 (DNA methylation derived, DNAmGDF15)), inflammatory (high sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6)), functional (muscle mass, muscle strength, hand grip strength (HGS), Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG), gait speed, standing balance test, frailty phenotype (FP), cognitive health, blood pressure), and epigenetic (epigenetic clock, DunedinPACE). Cox proportional hazard regression analyses were performed to investigate their role in prediction of all-cause as well as cause-specific mortality. Results were adjusted for age, sex, lifestyle factors, and genetic ancestry. Results In adjusted models of all-cause mortality, HGS, IL-6, standing balance, cognitive health, and the epigenetic clock (DunedinPACE) statistically significantly predicted mortality, with the epigenetic clock (DunedinPACE) emerging as the strongest predictor. CRP, gait speed, IGF-1, blood pressure, muscle mass, DNAmGDF15, FP and TUG were not associated with mortality in this study. These results were corroborated in subgroup analyses stratified by cause of death. Feature selection identified a minimal biomarker set consisting of muscle mass, standing balance, and epigenetic clock (DunedinPACE) that predicted mortality with nearly the same discriminative accuracy (C-index = 0.63) as the full model including all biomarkers (C-index = 0.65). Conclusion Among the fourteen investigated biomarkers of aging, DunedinPACE emerged with the strongest and most consistent association with mortality.

• Das, Ranjit Kumar; Sahoo, Nirakar; Roy, Deepa; Nguyen, Lauren; Rodrigo, Hansapani & Duttaroy, Asim Kanti [Vis alle 8 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Interferon-induced protein IFIT3 as a molecular nexus of neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease and HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders. Journal of Neuroinflammation. 23(1). doi: 10.1186/s12974-026-03713-6. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and HIV-associated neurocognitive disorder (HAND) are significant global health concerns characterized by cognitive impairment and shared pathological features, including chronic neuroinflammation, amyloid deposition, and immune dysregulation. However, the precise molecular connections between these disorders remain unclear. Here, we identify IFIT3 as a critical shared mediator of neuroinflammatory responses in both AD and HAND. Using complementary approaches, including neuronal and microglial cell cultures, the APP/PS1 mouse model, and human postmortem brain tissues, we demonstrate consistent IFIT3 upregulation in response to amyloid-beta (Aβ) and HIV-1 exposure, with notably enhanced expression under combined conditions. Treatment with combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) partially mitigated IFIT3 induction. Additionally, siRNA-mediated silencing of IFIT3 significantly reduced key inflammatory mediators, including mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS), nuclear factor-κB, and proinflammatory cytokines. Clinically, elevated IFIT3 expression was associated with early HAND and progressively increased across advancing AD Braak stages. Together, these findings identify IFIT3 as a potential molecular bridge between HAND and AD, highlighting its promise as both a biomarker and a therapeutic target for inflammation-driven neurodegeneration.

• Kværner, Ane Sørlie; Birkeland, Einar Elvbakken; Avershina, Ekaterina; Botteri, Edoardo; Bucher-Johannessen, Cecilie & Knudsen, Markus Dines [Vis alle 14 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Alcohol consumption and colorectal carcinogenesis: an exploration of the gut microbial pathway as a potential mediator. European Journal of Nutrition. ISSN 1436-6207. 65(4), s. 1–18. doi: 10.1007/s00394-026-03960-6. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background Alcohol consumption is one of the major risk factors of colorectal cancer (CRC), yet the mechanisms underlying this relationship, particularly the role of gut microbes, are not fully understood. Objective To study associations of alcohol intake with the gut microbiome and colorectal lesions among CRC screening participants. Of particular interest was the potential role of gut microbes in mediating the association between alcohol intake and colorectal lesions. Methods Screening participants with a positive faecal immunochemical test at ages 55–77 were eligible for the CRCbiome study. Alcohol intake was assessed using a validated, semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire and linked with shotgun metagenome based gut microbial profiles to study associations with screen-detected colorectal lesions. The potential role of alcohol-associated gut microbes in mediating the association between alcohol intake and colorectal lesions was examined using causal mediation analysis. Results Of 1468 participants with dietary data, 414 were diagnosed with advanced lesions. Alcohol intake was positively associated with advanced lesions in a dose-dependent manner (ptrend = 0.008), with odds ratio of 1.09 (95% confidence interval, 1.00, 1.19) per 10 g/day increase. Compared to non-consumers, those consuming alcohol were characterized by a distinct microbial profile, manifested as modest, but consistent, shifts in α- and β-diversity, and differentially abundant bacteria. A causal mediation analysis showed that 12% of the association between alcohol intake and advanced lesions was mediated by alcohol-associated gut bacteria. Conclusion Alcohol consumption was associated with a distinct microbial profile, which partly explained the association between alcohol intake and advanced colorectal lesions.

• Klevmoen, Marianne; Lennep, Jeanine Roeters van; Bogsrud, Martin Prøven; Vesterbekkmo, Elisabeth Kleivhaug; Pedersen, Eva Ringdal & Hovland, Anders Wilhelm [Vis alle 14 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Extensive pregnancy-related off-treatment time in women with familial hypercholesterolaemia. Atherosclerosis. ISSN 0021-9150. 415. doi: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2026.120668. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background and aims: Women with familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) lose substantial treatment time during their reproductive years as most lipid-lowering therapies are contraindicated from the preconception through the end of breastfeeding. We examined the duration of real-life pregnancy-related off-treatment time in 27 women with FH in Norway. Methods: Women with FH in Norway who had completed the ongoing FH-FEMINA study (ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT05367310) were included. Women were followed from 36th week of gestation and until one year after delivery or until end of breastfeeding. Information on use of medication before, during and after the current and previous pregnancies was collected. Pregnancy-related off-treatment time was calculated from discontinuation of lipid-lowering therapy when planning pregnancy, throughout pregnancy, and after delivery. Results: The total duration of pregnancy-related off-treatment time after all childbirths (median 1, range 1-3) per woman was a median of 2.9 years (25th-75th percentile; 1.6-4.0), ranging from 0.8 to 12 years. The pregnancy itself accounted for median of 42.1% of the pregnancy-related off-treatment time, whereas the time before and after pregnancy accounted for a median of 57.9% (range 11.4% to 91.2%). When including untreated years in childhood and/or prior to diagnosis, the lifelong off-treatment time represented a median of 66.3% (range 41.9 to 100%) of lifetime without treatment. Conclusion: Early diagnosis and initiation of treatment is essential in girls with FH to compensate for pregnancy-related off-treatment time later in life. To minimize these pregnancy-related off-treatment periods, healthcare professionals should support women with FH to resume lipid-lowering therapy immediately after breastfeeding and between pregnancies. In addition, more knowledge on the potential effects of statin use during pregnancy and breastfeeding on maternal and offspring health is urgently needed.

• Severinsen, Frida; Varsi, Cecilie; Andersen, Lene Frost; Henriksen, Christine & Paulsen, Mari Mohn (2026). Implementation of Digital Seamless Nutrition Care throughout the Treatment Course for Patients with Head and Neck Cancer: A Process Evaluation. Current Developments in Nutrition (CDN). 10(4), s. 1–13. doi: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2026.107677. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background Nutritional interventions may reduce the prevalence of malnutrition in patients with head and neck cancer; however, implementation often fails due to barriers at various levels. Process evaluations can provide an understanding of implementation outcomes, mechanisms of impact, and context and provide information about feasibility and acceptability. Objectives To perform a process evaluation of the Nutrition Throughout the Treatment Course (NUTREAT) intervention, including use of the MyFood app and web report. Specifically, we aimed to evaluate 1) the acceptability, adoption, appropriateness, feasibility, and fidelity of the intervention, 2) the implementation plan, and 3) patient adherence to the intervention. Methods A mixed methods approach was applied, including individual interviews, a focus group discussion, log data from electronic patient records (EPRs), an experience questionnaire, and information from the MyFood web report. Proctor’s implementation outcomes guided the development of the interview guide and analysis. Themes were deductively established using codebook thematic analysis. The implementation plan was evaluated through logs of completed activities. Log data from EPRs were collected to evaluate fidelity among healthcare professionals (HCPs), and information from the MyFood web report informed patient adherence to the intervention. Results Individual interviews were conducted with patients (n = 8), registered nurses (n = 3), and leaders (n = 2), and a focus group discussion was conducted with registered dietitians (n = 6). Patients, registered nurses, registered dietitians, and leaders found the intervention acceptable, appropriate, and feasible. Patient adherence was high, whereas fidelity among HCPs was low. Conclusions The NUTREAT intervention increased patients’ awareness of their own nutritional requirements and was considered helpful by HCPs in preparing for patient consultations. However, fidelity among HCPs was low. Future efforts should focus on identifying strategies to improve fidelity among HCPs and study the long-term sustainability of the intervention.

• Aunan, Anine; Claeyssen, Charlotte; Abdelhalim, Mohamed & Ruzzin, Jerome Nicolas Marius (2026). Transcriptomic profiling of co-cultured cancer-host cells identifies hypoxia as a driver of the skeletal muscle cell’s anti-proliferative effect on cancer cells | Oncogenesis. Oncogenesis. doi: 10.1038/s41389-026-00601-9. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Cancer metastasis is the leading cause of cancer-related death. While organs such as the lung are hotspots for metastases, others -like skeletal muscle- remain rarely colonized, a phenomenon that remains poorly understood. In this study, we show that EO771 breast cancer cells proliferated robustly when co-cultured with MLg lung stromal cells, whereas their proliferation was restrained when maintained in direct contact with differentiated C2C12 skeletal muscle myotubes. Notably, these effects were not cell-type-specific, as similar results were obtained with 4T1 breast cancer cells and Sol8 myotubes. After two days of co-culture, both cancer and host cells (MLg and C2C12) exhibited distinct niche-specific transcriptional remodeling. Strikingly, the poorly proliferative EO771 cells co-cultured with C2C12 myotubes acquired a hypoxia-associated gene-expression signature despite normoxic conditions (~20% O₂), showing that muscle cells reprogram cancer cells into a hypoxic, anti-proliferative state. Under hypoxic conditions, we confirmed that the depletion of oxygen allows C2C12 cells to nearly abolish EO771 proliferation. Neither exogenous lactate, culture acidosis, their combination, altered glucose levels, nor conditioned medium could reproduce the suppressive environment created by C2C12 myotubes. In contrast, MLg cells induced minimal transcriptional changes in EO771 cells and were themselves broadly reprogrammed by the cancer cells. Moreover, hypoxia enhanced EO771 proliferation in MLg co-cultures, emphasizing the permissive nature of the MLg environment. Collectively, these findings uncover a unique, paradoxical, muscle-induced pseudo-hypoxic program that restricts cancer cell proliferation. They also highlight the need for caution in targeting hypoxia signaling in anti-metastatic therapies, as such interventions could weaken skeletal muscle’s natural defense against tumor colonization.

• Slettahjell, Hanne Bjørg; Strøm, Vegard; Thoresen, Magne; Strøm, Mona; Glott, Thomas & Biering-Sørensen, Fin [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Effects of an Individualized Dietitian-Led Nutrition Intervention on Body Composition During the First Year After Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Clinical Nutrition ESPEN. ISSN 2405-4577. doi: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2026.103133. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background & Aims Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) induces rapid and adverse changes in body composition, yet effective strategies to prevent excess fat accumulation are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of an individualized dietitian-led nutrition intervention on change in fat mass and related markers of adiposity during the first year following SCI. Methods In this single-center, open-label randomized controlled trial, adults with subacute traumatic SCI were randomized to an individualized dietitian-led intervention or usual care. The primary outcome was change in total fat mass (FM) over one year, assessed by multifrequency bioimpedance analysis. Secondary outcomes included fat mass index (FMI), visceral adipose tissue (VAT), waist circumference, fat-free mass (FFM), fat-free mass index (FFMI), body weight, body mass index (BMI) and biomarkers (fasting glucose, 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test, HbA1c, LDL, HDL and triglycerides). Intention-to-treat analyses used mixed-effects models adjusted for age, sex, and neurological severity. Results Sixty-two participants were randomized (32 intervention, 30 control). Participants were predominantly male (76%) with a mean age of 48 (SD 17) years. At 1 year, the adjusted between-group difference in FM change was −1.5 kg (95% CI −4.8 to 1.9; p = 0.39). Significant between-group differences were observed for VAT (−0.5 L; 95% CI −1.0 to −0.1; p = 0.02) and waist circumference (−4.0 cm; 95% CI −7.0 to −1.0; p = 0.01), with borderline significance for FMI (−1.6 kg/m2; 95% CI −3.2 to 0.0; p = 0.05). No significant between-group differences were observed for body weight, BMI, fat-free mass, or biomarkers. Sensitivity and per-protocol analyses yielded consistent results. Conclusions Although the intervention did not significantly affect the primary endpoint of total fat mass, between-group differences were observed for VAT and waist circumference. These findings suggest that structured, individualized dietetic care initiated during SCI rehabilitation and continued post-discharge may attenuate accumulation of abdominal adiposity. Longer-term follow-up is needed to determine whether early attenuation of abdominal adiposity translates into reduced cardiometabolic risk and improved functional outcomes.

• Møller, Peter; Ladeira, Carina; Ziemann, Christina; Knasmueller, Siegfried; Mišík, Miroslav & Louro, Henriqueta [Vis alle 14 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Towards a validation of the standard and enzyme-linked comet assay: a retrospective variability analysis. Archives of Toxicology. ISSN 0340-5761. 100, s. 1275–1300. doi: 10.1007/s00204-026-04317-y. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  The comet assay is one of the most popular tests for genotoxicity in cell cultures, non-animal species, animals and humans. It has high sensitivity to detect low levels of DNA damage, can be applied to non-proliferating cells, requires relatively few cells, is technically simple, and is low cost. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) adopted in 2016 the in vivo comet assay for measurement of DNA strand breaks in animal tissues. There is a desire to expand the comet assay to genotoxicity testing in cell cultures, including the detection of oxidatively damaged DNA by incubation of gel-embedded nucleoids with DNA repair enzymes, especially formamidopyrimidine DNA glycosylase (Fpg) which converts oxidised purines to DNA breaks. Based on available information in the literature, this review provides a retrospective evaluation of the validation status of this assay, focusing on accuracy and reliability in genotoxicity testing in vitro. Information on accuracy is scarce, although limited evidence suggests levels of Fpg-sensitive sites are similar to those obtained by Fpg-linked alkaline unwinding and alkaline elution assays. Several ring studies have shown that estimated background levels of DNA breaks vary within and between laboratories. However, ring studies indicate good intra- and inter-laboratory reproducibility of the standard assay on ionizing radiation-exposed and the Fpg-linked assay on potassium bromate exposed cells. Further studies are needed to assess the reproducibility in multiple laboratories using coded samples of non-genotoxins and genotoxins. Nevertheless, the available results indicate the comet assay is a reliable in vitro genotoxicity test.

• Clausen, Maria Thompson; Sverdrup, Henrik; Brevik, Asgeir; Molin, Marianne & Kolby, Marit (2026). Time-Restricted Eating and Symptom Severity in Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Results from a Pilot Study. Nutrients. 18(5), s. 765–765. doi: 10.3390/nu18050765. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background/Objectives: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder affecting approximately 5–10% of the population, with many individuals reporting insufficient improvement from treatment options. This study aimed to explore whether time-restricted eating (TRE) could alleviate symptoms in patients with IBS. Methods: This single-group, pre–post pilot study included participants with IBS who followed an 8-week time-restricted eating protocol, defined as a daily 16 h fasting period and an 8 h eating window (16:8). Symptom changes were assessed using the validated IBS Symptom Severity Scale (IBS-SSS) at baseline and post-intervention. The study was retrospectively registered after completion of data collection. Results: A total of 134 patients were enrolled, of whom 97 completed the intervention. Participants demonstrated a mean reduction in the IBS-SSS score of −100.2 (p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis also demonstrated mean reductions in the IBS-SSS scores for participants with IBS-constipation (IBS-C) (−125.2, p < 0.001), IBS-diarrhea (IBS-D) (−76.0, p < 0.005), and IBS-mixed (IBS-M) (−93.1, p < 0.001). Additionally, the participants experienced improvements in both self-reported physical and mental health. Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest that TRE may represent a promising behavioral strategy for IBS symptom management, warranting controlled trials.

• Eklo, Rakel R.; Alavi, Dena Treider; Konglevoll, Dina Moxness; Kolle, Åshild; Henriksen, Hege Berg & Rising, Russell [Vis alle 8 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Predictive equations commonly used in clinics underestimate resting energy expenditure compared with whole-room indirect calorimetry in colorectal cancer survivors. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. ISSN 0002-9165. doi: 10.1016/j.ajcnut.2026.101209. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background: Accurate methods for estimating resting energy expenditure (REE) are important to ensure adequate nutritional treatment in colorectal cancer (CRC) survivors. Objective: To determine the agreement between REE estimated by commonly used predictive equations and by whole-room indirect calorimetry (WRIC). Design: This cross-sectional study included 31 CRC survivors (age: 53–78 years; mean (standard deviation (SD)) body mass index (BMI) 28.7 (4.28) kg/m2), who underwent curative surgery. Body composition was measured by dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Predicted REE from equations in clinical use and derived from DXA and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) were compared against REE measured by 30-min WRIC. Equations included Harris-Benedict, Mifflin-St. Jeor, FAO/WHO/UNU, Henry, Mifflin-St. JeorDXA, and FAO/WHO/UNUBIA. Paired sample t-test, Lin’s concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) and Bland-Altman analysis were used to determine the agreement between measured REEWRIC and predicted REE. Accuracy was defined as the percentage of predicted REE values that fell within ± 10 % of REEWRIC. Results: Mean (SD) REEWRIC was 1710 kcal/d (353), and respiratory quotient (RQ) was 0.79 (0.05). Most equations underestimated REE. On average, Harris-Benedict, Henry, and FAO/WHO/UNUBIA showed the best overall agreement with REEWRIC. However, these equations showed low accuracy with 65 %, 68 %, and 62 % of predicted REE values within ± 10 % of REEWRIC, respectively. Conclusions: Most predictive equations tended to underestimate REE in CRC survivors compared with REEWRIC. The Harris-Benedict, Henry and FAO/WHO/UNUBIA equations showed both best accuracy and agreement with WRIC. They were still inaccurate, with individual variability for a relevant part of the sample. Future studies need to develop improved predictive equations for CRC survivors.

• Cabre, Hannah E; Marlatt, Kara L; Fernández-Verdejo, Rodrigo; Beyl, Robbie; Redman, Leanne M & Ainslie, Philip N [Vis alle 74 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Sex Differences in Measures of Energy Expenditure and Body Composition in Young, Middle-Aged, and Older Adults. Current Developments in Nutrition (CDN). 10(1). doi: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2025.107614. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background Total daily energy expenditure (TDEE) is vital for energy balance and cardiometabolic health, yet its trajectory across the lifespan, particularly in females, remains poorly understood. Objectives We sought to examine the effects of aging and sex on body composition and TDEE. Methods In a cross-sectional analysis of data from research centers across 9 European Countries and the United States from the International Atomic Energy Agency database, TDEE and body composition measures of 2326 participants (1560W/766M; 50.7 ± 12 .6 y) were stratified across age groups: young (30–39 y; YOUNG), middle-aged (40–54 y; MID), and old (55–70 y; OLD). Doubly labeled water was used to estimate TDEE and fat-free mass (FFM). Fat mass (FM) was calculated as the difference between body mass and FFM, and %fat was ratio between FM and body mass as a percentage. Linear models were used for analysis. Results Females demonstrated greater FM and lower FFM with each age group, compared with males (P < 0.001). In females, OLD had lower absolute TDEE than YOUNG (−217 kcal/d, P < 0.001) and MID (−208 kcal/d, P < 0.001). Male absolute TDEE was lowered across all age groups (OLD compared with YOUNG: −334 kcal/d; OLD compared with MID: −210 kcal/d; MID compared with YOUNG: −124 kcal/d; P < 0.001). Adjusted TDEE was similar within age groups between females and males. Conclusions These results suggest that age influences changes in body composition and energy expenditure similarly between males and females. The most significant change in TDEE occurs as individuals transition from middle age to older adulthood. Females generally have a higher percentage of %fat and FM, along with lower FFM, compared with males across all age groups. These findings are important for understanding how aging affects metabolism and body composition, which could inform sex-specific health strategies and interventions.

• Knudsen, Ann Kristin Skrindo; Baravelli, Carl Michael; Madsen, Christian; Clarsen, Benjamin Matthew; TopeAmobonye, Ayodeji Emmanuel & Brauer, Michael [Vis alle 27 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). The burden of dietary risk factors in the Nordic and Baltic countries: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023. The Lancet Regional Health - Europe. 61, s. 1–12. doi: https:/www.thelancet.com/journals/lanepe/article/PIIS2666-7762(25)00335-7/fulltext. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background Detailed knowledge about the disease burden from unhealthy diet in Nordic and Baltic countries is lacking. This study quantifies and compares deaths and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) from dietary risks in these countries. Methods Data from the Global Burden of Disease study 2023 (GBD 2023) was used. Attributable disease burden from 15 dietary risks was analysed using the comparative risk assessment framework. Steps included: (1) estimating dietary intake; (2) assessing relative risks of dietary factors on disease endpoints; (3) determining theoretical minimum risk exposure levels (TMREL); and (4) estimating dietary risk-attributable disease burden as numbers and age-standardised rates (ASR) of deaths and DALYs. Findings Across the Nordic and Baltic countries (total population = 34,064,020), dietary risks resulted in 38,450 attributed deaths (95% uncertainty interval 10,749–59,386) and 735,284 DALYs (242,417–1,06,638) in 2023. Leading dietary risks included high intake of processed meat and low intake of fruits and whole grains. Dietary risks accounted for 24.9% of cardiovascular disease burden (5.0–37.6), 29.6% of diabetes and kidney disease burden (18.6–40.0), and 7.8% of neoplasm burden (2.9–12.1), with higher burden in the Baltic countries and Greenland than in the Nordic countries. Interpretation A substantial disease burden can be attributed to dietary risks in the Nordic and Baltic countries. Knowledge about the impact from unhealthy diet can inform targeted public health policies. Funding Gates Foundation and Norwegian Institute of Public Health.

• Iversen, Per Ole; Gedde-Dahl, Tobias; Tjønnfjord, Geir Erland & Ali, Maryan Mohamed (2025). Quality of life the first year after allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation—A randomized controlled trial examining extracorporeal photophoresis to prevent graft‐versus‐host disease. British Journal of Haematology. ISSN 0007-1048. 207(5), s. 2183–2186. doi: 10.1111/bjh.70119. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Roza, Gia V. Da; Cermakova, Lubomira; Lennep, Jeanine Roeters van; Holven, Kirsten Bjørklund; Iatan, Iulia & Brunham, Liam R. (2025). Lipid changes in females with familial hypercholesterolemia during the menopausal transition period. Atherosclerosis. ISSN 0021-9150. 413. doi: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2025.120587. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Sahoo, Alaka; Swain, Shasank Sekhar; Singh, Satya Ranjan; Jena, Atala Bihari; Paidesetty, Sudhir Kumar & Duttaroy, Asim Kanti [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). Target-specific therapeutic assessment of repurposed drug candidates for oral lichen planus: a network pharmacology-molecular dynamics simulation guided investigation. BDJ Open. 11(1). doi: 10.1038/s41405-025-00384-y. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background Oral lichen planus (OLP) is a chronic mucocutaneous autoimmune skin disease without a proper pathophysiology and approved therapy. As a result, several repurposed drugs have been used in clinical practice, and it remains unclear which one holds greater potential. Aim The present study employs a network pharmacology to explore the disease biology and further investigate the target-specific binding efficacy of repurposed drugs. Materials and methods Twenty-eight repurposed drug’s (D1-D28) efficacies against twelve targets were investigated using PyRx 0.8-AutoDock 4.2 software. Further, drug stability and reactivity were studied using molecular dynamics (MD) simulation at 200 ns, Gibbs free energy, frontier molecular orbital theory, and structural activity relationship. Results The above computational investigation suggested betamethasone (D2/BETA) and triamcinolone acetonide (D28/TACA) are two potential drugs, predominantly demonstrating higher binding efficacy against the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). Further, MD simulation, free-energy calculation revealed that D28/TACA was comparatively more stable than D2/BETA. Conclusion The network pharmacology explored possible drug targets for drug discovery and showed that D28/TACA is a more effective treatment option among repurposed drugs.

• Jena, Atala Bihari; Dash, Umesh Chandra & Duttaroy, Asim Kanti (2025). Halved but Potent: Exploring the Inhibitory Property of Curcumin Derivatives Against Evolving SARS-CoV-2 Strains. The Protein Journal. ISSN 1572-3887. doi: 10.1007/s10930-025-10309-1. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  In the prevailing pandemic, the emergence of several variants has created concerns, as none of the vaccines have 100% effectiveness. As a countermeasure to combat the infection of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants and to minimize the morbidity, alternative therapeutics have been prioritized, mainly including phytocompounds. In our recent studies, we have considered polyphenols, such as catechin, curcumin, and 8-Hydroxydihydrosanguinarine (8-HDS), for this purpose and found their tendency to bind to the receptor-binding domain of S-protein, thereby inhibiting viral infiltration into the cell. In the current scenario, with the appearance of multiple viral strains, we have furthered our studies on two highly infectious variants of SARS-CoV-2: D614G and B.1.1.7, commonly identified as the UK variant. Our research incorporates various computational methodologies to decipher the potential role of our previously studied phytocompounds and the curcumin derivative, half-curcumin, inhibiting viral attachment and entry for both D614G and the B.1.1.7 lineage. The physicochemical characterization of the spike (S) protein of the UK variant suggests it is less thermostable, which raises questions about its transmissibility in warmer regions of the globe. All the studied phytocompounds have an immense ability to hinder the S protein interaction towards the human cell receptor ACE2 for both the variants. The half-curcumin has also potential drug suitability, which is confirmed through its characterization of ADME (Physicochemical, Water Solubility, Lipophilicity, Drug-likeness, and Pharmacokinetics) properties, and can be considered as a future therapeutic molecule for anti-COVID-19 drug design.

• Bartkeviciene, Arenida; Jasukaitiene, Aldona; Zievyte, Inga; Ivanauskiene, Sandra; Stachneviciute, Gabija & Jenceviciute, Kornelija [Vis alle 16 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). Baseline AHR expression shapes immune response to pharmacological modulation in PBMCs from pancreatic cancer patients. Frontiers in Immunology. 16. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2025.1655258. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains largely unresponsive to immunotherapy because of its highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a ligand-dependent transcription factor, has emerged as a key regulator of immune homeostasis and inflammation. However, its systemic immunomodulatory role in PDAC, particularly outside the tumor microenvironment, remains poorly understood. Methods: Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with PDAC and healthy donors were isolated and treated ex vivo with two AHR agonists (Carbidopa and Tapinarof) and one antagonist (BAY 2416964). The samples were stratified into Low and High/Medium AHR expression groups. Flow cytometry (FC), qPCR, ELISA, Luminex assays, and immunofluorescence imaging were used to evaluate immune checkpoint expression, cytokine secretion, monocyte polarization, and subcellular AHR localization. Overall survival analysis was performed based on the baseline AHR expression levels. Results: Baseline AHR expression strongly influenced the immunological effects of AHR modulators. In High/Medium AHR PBMCs, Carbidopa increased PD-L1 and soluble PD-1 (sPD-1) levels, while IL10 expression was suppressed. In contrast, BAY significantly reduced PD-1 and sPD-1 levels in Low AHR PBMCs, whereas Tapinarof induced the highest IL10 expression. All modulators reduced the proportion of M2-like monocytes, indicating a shift toward less immunosuppressive phenotypes. Nuclear translocation of AHR protein varied across treatments and expression levels. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed a non-significant trend toward improved overall survival in the High/Medium AHR group (log-rank p = 0.276). Conclusion: Baseline AHR expression critically shapes the immune response to pharmacological modulation in PBMCs from PDAC patients. These findings suggest that AHR profiling may serve as a clinically relevant biomarker for stratifying patients and guiding personalized immunotherapy approaches for PDAC.

• Møller, Peter; Bankoglu, Ezgi Eyluel; Stopper, Helga; Gajski, Goran; Gerić, Marko & Haveric, Anja [Vis alle 10 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). The comet assay as a tool in human biomonitoring of exposure to heavy metals – A systematic review and meta-analysis. Mutation research. Reviews in mutation research. ISSN 1383-5742. 796. doi: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2025.108567. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Exposure to heavy metals such as lead, arsenic and chromium is associated with genotoxicity and increased risk of cancer. In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we have assessed effects of heavy metal exposure on levels of DNA strand breaks in leukocytes, measured by the comet assay, in human biomonitoring studies. We distinguish between traditional toxic metals (lead), semi-metals/metalloids (arsenic), transition metals (chromium), and other heavy metals. The literature search led to 66 studies, which were assessed by meta-analysis. Using standardized mean difference and 95 % confidence interval (CI), the meta-analyses show increased levels of DNA strand breaks in subjects exposed to lead (1.99, 95 % CI: 1.47, 2.51), arsenic (1.36, 95 % CI: 0.94, 1.77), chromium/welding fume (2.03, 95 % CI: 1.48, 2.57), and other heavy metals (0.81, 95 % CI: 0.45, 1.18). Subgroup analysis indicates that all studies combined from middle-income countries have higher effect size (1.99, 95 % CI: 1.63, 2.35) than have studies from high-income countries (0.81, 95 % CI: 0.37, 1.26). The lower effect size in high-income countries may be due to differences in exposure levels, related to stricter regulation of emissions or more awareness/use of personal protective equipment in the working environment. Sensitivity analysis does not unequivocally link effect size to comet assay measurement bias, inferred by insufficient information on comet assay procedures, missing assay controls, non-blinded analysis of samples, or exposure misclassification. In conclusion, this systematic review and meta-analysis shows that exposure to heavy metals - lead, arsenic and chromium – is associated with increased levels of DNA strand breaks in human leukocytes.

• Gerić, Marko; Azqueta, Oscoz Amaya; Møller, Peter; Bankoglu, Ezgi Eyluel; Gajski, Goran & Giovannelli, Lisa [Vis alle 10 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). The comet assay as a tool in human biomonitoring exposure to pesticides–A systematic review and meta-analysis. Mutation research. Reviews in mutation research. ISSN 1383-5742. 796. doi: 10.1016/j.mrrev.2025.108565. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Rockström, Johan; Thilsted, Shakuntala Haraksingh; Willett, Walter C.; Gordon, Line J.; Herrero, Mario & Hicks, Christina C. [Vis alle 70 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). The EAT–Lancet Commission on healthy, sustainable, and just food systems. The Lancet. ISSN 0140-6736. 406(10512), s. 1625–1700. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(25)01201-2. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Pferdmenges, Larissa E.; Colombani, Paolo C.; Carlsen, Monica Hauger; Pajari, Anne Maria; Poulsen, Anders & Dias, M. Graça [Vis alle 12 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). Toward harmonizing protein data in food composition databases: evaluating perspectives, methods and implications. Critical reviews in food science and nutrition. ISSN 1040-8398. 65(33), s. 8502–8515. doi: 10.1080/10408398.2025.2503461. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Protein content in foods has historically been estimated by multiplying measured nitrogen content with a universal nitrogen-to-protein conversion factor (NCF) of 6.25. Despite scientific consensus that this approach leads to systematic overestimations due to variations in amino acid composition and non-protein nitrogen (NPN) content, no universally accepted revision has been implemented. This review critically examines diverse perspectives on protein quantification and their implications for Food Composition Databases (FCDBs). A structured definition of protein for FCDBs is proposed, including amino acid residues, free amino acids and small peptides, while explicitly excluding NPN and prosthetic groups. Furthermore, analytical methods and NCF calculations are evaluated in order to provide more accurate assessments of protein content across a range of food matrices. The review highlights the importance of selecting food-specific NCFs to reduce overestimations, ensuring both scientific accuracy and practical feasibility. By addressing methodological shortcomings and proposing a refined protein quantification framework, this work aims to facilitate the transition toward more precise and harmonized protein values in FCDBs, benefiting nutritional research, dietary guidelines, and food labeling regulations.

• Nambidi, Sibin; Sennie, Neeharika Sara; Kondaveeti, Suresh Babu; Banerjee, Antara; Pathak, Surajit & Duttaroy, Asim Kanti (2025). A review of short-Chain fatty acids in gut and skin: Possible implications in skin aging. Journal of Functional Foods. ISSN 1756-4646. 133. doi: 10.1016/j.jff.2025.107010. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  The gut–skin axis is an active and bidirectional communication in which gut microbiota impacts skin health and disease. One of the most common microbial metabolites is short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which are composed of acetate, propionate, and butyrate generated from the fermentation of dietary fibers. SCFAs are bioactive in nature that are essential in regulating inflammation, immune signalling, oxidative stress, and skin barrier function. In addition, SCFAs stimulate the differentiation of keratinocytes, acetylation of collagen, and have antimicrobial properties, which are important in establishing skin homeostasis and longevity. Currently, new approaches are underway to develop dietary patterns, probiotic strategies, functional food, and delivery systems to induce SCFA generation and function in vivo. Relevant research and review articles were collected using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus for the information required for this comprehensive review. Key terms used for literature search included gut-skin axis, SCFA, functional food, epithelial integrity, skin aging, inflammation, etc. In this review, we tried to summarised the role and mechanisms of SCFA in gut-skin aging from the published research evidence and discussed on the role of functional foods in managing aging-related diseases.

• Pallatt, Sneha; Nambidi, Sibin; Adhikary, Subhamay; Banerjee, Antara; Pathak, Surajit & Duttaroy, Asim Kanti (2025). A brief review of Lynch syndrome: understanding the dual cancer risk between endometrial and colorectal cancer. Oncology Reviews. ISSN 1970-5565. 19. doi: 10.3389/or.2025.1549416. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Nambidi, Sibin; Shruthi, Karunakaran Bhuvaneswari; Kanimozhe, Sujatha Padmanaban; Banerjee, Antara; Kondaveeti, Suresh Babu & Duttaroy, Asim Kanti [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). A review of circular RNAs in colorectal cancer: insights into biomarker discovery and therapeutic targeting. Frontiers in Oncology. 15. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2025.1549046. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancers, with an incidence that has increased significantly over the last 20 years. The World Health Organization (WHO), under its cancer program, identifies CRC as the third most prevalent cancer worldwide with a high mortality rate, especially in patients under the age of 50. Despite advances in surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and molecular targeted therapy, CRC shares a low survival rate and poor prognosis due to late diagnosis. To address these challenges, research into alternative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies has increasingly focused on molecular mechanisms, including noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs). Circular RNAs (circRNAs), a subclass of endogenous ncRNAs characterized by their covalently enclosed loop structure, demonstrate greater stability than linear RNAs, making them potential candidates for clinical applications. The circRNAs possess differential expressions in cancers and function as tumor suppressive or oncogenic activities. This review discusses the recent findings on circRNAs and their potential for biomarkers and therapeutic targets in CRC. As circRNAs can serve as miRNA sponges, increase or decrease mRNA expression, and function to regulate an oncogenic or tumor suppressor pathway, there may be the possibility for an early diagnosis, prognosis, or therapeutic role of circRNAs in CRC. Highlighting the clinical implications of circRNAs, this review discusses their potential to transform current CRC management strategies and address critical gaps in timely diagnosis and effective treatment. It also emphasized the need for further clinical research to validate their utility and translate these findings into practice.

• Saha, Biki; Banerjee, Antara; Pathak, Rupak; Duttaroy, Asim Kanti & Pathak, Surajit (2025). Trimethylamine N-Oxide (TMAO) and cancer risk: Insights into a possible link. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. ISSN 0753-3322. 192. doi: 10.1016/j.biopha.2025.118592. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Park, Johan & Skålhegg, Bjørn Steen (2025). Combination of PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors in the treatment of cancer – a brief update. Frontiers in Immunology. 16. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2025.1680838. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  The introduction of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has revolutionized cancer therapy, offering durable responses in multiple malignancies by targeting regulatory pathways such as programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1), its ligand (PD-L1), and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4). These pathways, which normally maintain immune tolerance and homeostasis, can be exploited by tumors to evade immune surveillance. Dual blockade using monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 has shown synergistic effects, improving response rates, overall survival, and progression-free survival in several cancer types. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two such combinations: nivolumab plus ipilimumab and durvalumab plus tremelimumab, based on demonstrated clinical benefit in melanoma, renal cell carcinoma, colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, non-small cell lung cancer, pleural mesothelioma, and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. However, clinical benefit has not been consistent across all tumor types, with limited efficacy observed in cancers such as glioblastoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma. Additionally, combination therapy is associated with a higher incidence of immune-related adverse events, affecting multiple organ systems and necessitating careful dosing strategies to balance efficacy and toxicity. This review summarizes the current landscape of FDA-approved PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 combinations, their therapeutic achievements, clinical limitations, and supports future research in combination immunotherapy.

• Méndez-García, Andrea; García-Mendoza, Marely Abigail; Zárate-Peralta, Carmila Patricia; Flores-Perez, Fernanda Valeria; Carmona-Ramirez, Luis Fernando & Pathak, Surajit [Vis alle 9 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). Mitochondrial microRNAs (mitomiRs) as emerging biomarkers and therapeutic targets for chronic human diseases. Frontiers in Genetics. 16. doi: 10.3389/fgene.2025.1555563. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Mitochondria are membrane-bound cell organelles that undertake the majority of the energetic and metabolic processes within the cell. They are also responsible for mediating multiple apoptotic pathways, balancing redox charges, and scavenging reactive oxygen species. MicroRNAs, which are short, non-coding RNAs widely known for regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, regulate many of these processes. The specific microRNAs that directly or indirectly control mitochondrial dynamics are called mitochondrial miRNAs (mitomiRs). The broadest classification of this type of ncRNA encompasses nuclear-encoded miRNAs that interact with cytoplasmatic mRNAs associated with mitochondrial activity. At the same time, a more specific subset comprises nuclear-encoded miRNAs that translocate into the mitochondria to interact with mRNAs inside of this organelle. Finally, the smallest group of mitomiRs includes those codified by mtDNA and can regulate endogenous mitochondrial transcripts or be transported into the cytoplasm to modulate circulating mRNAs. Regardless of the origin or action mechanism, mitomiRs have been recently recognized to have a key role in the progression of a variety of chronic disorders, such as neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, asthma, depression, and even cancer. All of these progressive pathologies have been tightly linked to mitochondrial dysregulation. They are further associated with an aberrant expression of specific miRNAs that regulate cellular metabolism, positioning mitomiRs as reliable biomarkers for diagnosing several chronic diseases. These molecular indicators have also provided insights into how these conditions progress, allowing for the development of different miRNA-based treatment strategies that target dysregulated mitochondrial-related genes, reestablishing their baseline activity and restricting further disease progression.

• Jayachandran, Jayenth; Rithi, A. T.; Mitra, Abhijit; Radhakrishnan, Arunkumar; Banerjee, Antara & Duttaroy, Asim Kanti (2025). A review on mesenchymal stem cells and their secretome in hepatocellular carcinogenesis and its related signaling pathways: recent update. Discover Oncology. 16(1). doi: 10.1007/s12672-025-03088-9. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a significant global health challenge, being one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality. This review focuses on the intricate interactions within the tumor microenvironment and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and it’s secretome in HCC and possible therapeutic responses. MSCs, characterized by their multipotent differentiation and self-renewal capabilities, can influence tumor behavior maybe through its secreted factors, including cytokines, growth factors and extracellular vesicles. This review summarizes the recent findings on role of MSCs in HCC, highlighting its involvement in different cell signaling pathways, including NF-κB, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch1, Stat3, and TGF-β, which play a significant role in HCC and possibly exhibit both tumor-suppressive and/or tumor-promoting effects depending on the activation or deactivation of signaling pathways. Publications related to the topic between 2016 to 2025 were searched using databases like PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar with keywords viz. HCC, mesenchymal stem cells, secretome, tumor microenvironment, and signaling pathways. Findings from different research studies depict that MSCs and their secretome can exert anti-tumor effects by inducing apoptosis and enhancing immune responses, they may also promote alternate effects like tumor proliferation and metastasis under certain conditions, related to the activation or deactivation of different signalling pathways. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted roles of MSCs in HCC. The dual role and the complexities of MSCs is context dependent. However, advancements in MSC research showed that the modifications of MSCs and secretome-based therapies and targeting the signaling pathways may have the potential to overcome challenges like drug resistance in HCC treatment.

• Grimolizzi, Franco (2025). How regenerative is “regenerative”? A quantitative score to benchmark therapy performance across tissues. Regenerative Medicine. ISSN 1746-0751. 20(12), s. 707–713. doi: 10.1080/17460751.2026.2626080. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Wik, Jonas Aakre; Berge, Emma Riiser; Strømsnes, Kristine Bakklund & Skålhegg, Bjørn Steen (2025). Metabolism in the tumor microenvironment: implications for pathogenesis and therapeutics. Frontiers in Immunology. 16, s. 1–20. doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2025.1610255. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  The immune system protects the body against dangers that include pathogens, damage and cancer. Modern cancer therapies have sought to bolster immune responses against cancer using immunotherapy, which may include various forms of immune checkpoint therapy (ICT) in addition to methods of adoptive cell transfer (ACT), which is often associated with transfer of chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. Despite favorable outcomes in some patients and some cancers, as many as 60-80% of patients fail to benefit from ICT due to primary or adaptive resistance. This highlights the need for deeper understanding of how cancers suppress the immune system. Solid tumors, which make up approximately 90% of all cancers, are characterized by an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). A hallmark of the TME is dysfunctional vascularization and impaired perfusion, which hinder effective drug delivery and promote hypoxia-induced metabolic reprograming in both cancer and immune cells. As the TME imposes intense metabolic stress through nutrient competition and lactate-driven acidification – both of which activates immunosuppressive pathways, targeting the TME itself may be beneficial in enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy. Here we will briefly discuss the potential of targeting the metabolism of the TME as a means to promote normalized tumor vascularization and/or enhance anti-tumor immune responses.

• Adhikari, Suman; Nath, Priyatosh; Deb, Vishal Kumar; Das, Niranjan; Banerjee, Antara & Pathak, Surajit [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). Pharmacological potential of natural chalcones: a recent studies and future perspective. Frontiers in Pharmacology. 16. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2025.1570385. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Chalcones isolated from natural sources are the primary metabolites of numerous biologically intriguing and pharmacologically essential drugs. Chalcones’ pharmacological properties are believed to result from a double bond conjugated to carbonyl functionality. This review aims to summarise the research findings, showing naturally occurring chalcones as a preferred scaffold in medicinal chemistry. Natural chalcones have an intense antimicrobial activity that targets many pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, fungi, and protozoa. Strong antibiotic qualities are exhibited by chalcones, including 4-hydroxyderricin, licochalcone A and C, isobavachalcone, and pinocembrin chalcone. Furthermore, chalcones are promising pharmacological agents for cancer treatment; they inhibit angiogenesis, decrease metastasis, and induce death in tumor cells via diverse mechanisms. Chalcones are also considered promising therapeutic agents for diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases because of their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics and ability to modify enzyme functioning. This review emphasizes several aspects, such as the biosynthesis of chalcones, preparation of chalcone derivatives, isolation of chalcones, structural features of chalcones, structure-activity relationship study, the role of natural chalcones in managing various diseases and illustrates their action mechanism to control disease progression.

• Varma, Saikanth; Duttaroy, Asim Kanti & Basak, Sanjay (2025). Human exposure to micro- and nanoplastics: a mechanistic perspective of health risks associated with metabolic and reproductive functions. Science of the Total Environment. ISSN 0048-9697. 989(10), s. 1–20. doi: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.179879. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Pedersen, Jonas; Hedegaard, Berit Storgaard; Schmidt, Erik Berg; Dahm, Christina C.; Holven, Kirsten Bjørklund & Retterstøl, Kjetil [Vis alle 8 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). Monounsaturated Fatty Acids in Cardiovascular Disease: Intake, Individual Types, and Content in Adipose Tissue as a Biomarker of Endogenous Exposure. Nutrients. 17(15). doi: 10.3390/nu17152509. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Unhealthy dietary patterns are a major modifiable risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). International guidelines recommend reducing saturated fatty acid intake while increasing polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) to mitigate cardiovascular risk. However, evidence regarding MUFAs and risk of ASCVD remains conflicting, with recent studies raising concern about a potential higher risk associated with MUFA intake. The aim of this narrative review is to provide an overview of current knowledge and gaps in the literature regarding MUFAs and the risk of ASCVD with a focus on intake, individual types, and content in adipose tissue as a biomarker of endogenous exposure. Main findings reveal that most studies have inappropriately combined all MUFAs together, despite individual MUFA types having different biological effects and showing varying correlations between dietary intake and adipose tissue content. Adipose tissue composition may serve as a biomarker of long-term MUFA exposure, reflecting cumulative intake over one to two years while minimizing biases inherent in dietary assessments. However, tissue levels reflect both dietary intake and endogenous synthesis, complicating interpretation. Importantly, the source of MUFAs appears critical, with plant-derived MUFAs potentially offering advantages over animal-derived sources. In conclusion, we suggest that future research should focus on individual MUFA types rather than treating them as a homogeneous group, investigate their specific dietary sources and associations with ASCVD risk, and use adipose tissue biomarkers to improve exposure assessment and clarify causal relationships while considering overall dietary patterns.

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• Hjartåker, Anette; Retterstøl, Kjetil; Müller, Hanne & Anderssen, Sigmund Alfred (2026). Grunnleggende ernæringslære. Gyldendal. ISBN 9788205614734. 485 s. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Boken legger særlig vekt på betydningen av samspillet mellom kosthold og fysisk aktivitet for god helse. Innholdet i denne fjerde utgaven er oppdatert i tråd med aktuell forskningslitteratur og nasjonale anbefalinger, og den er spesielt tilpasset norske forhold. Boken henvender seg til et bredt spekter av studenter ved universitets- og høyskoler, blant annet innenfor medisin, ernæring, idrettsfag og fysioterapi, i tillegg til andre fagområder som jobber med forebygging og folkehelse. Boken gir også et solid grunnlag for videre studier innenfor mer spesialiserte, tilgrensende områder som klinisk ernæring, samfunnsernæring og næringsmiddelteknologi.

Se alle arbeider i NVA

• Sollerud, Eli; Kerola, Anne; Semb, Anne Grete & Ikdahl, Eirik (2026). The Benefit of Carotid Ultrasound in Patients with Inflammatory Joint Diseases. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Khalil, Youssef Samir Abouzeid Mohamed; Vesterbekkmo, Elisabeth Kleivhaug; Holven, Kirsten Bjørklund; Dalen, Håvard; Retterstøl, Kjetil & Blom, Sigrid Marie [Vis alle 8 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). LIPOPROTEIN(A), AGE AND SEX-SPECIFIC ABSOLUTE AND RELATIVE HAZARDS OF ATHEROSCLEROTIC CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE: NEW INSIGHTS FROM 16-YEAR FOLLOW-UP OF THE NORWEGIAN HUNT STUDY. Atherosclerosis. ISSN 0021-9150. 419, s. 121083–121083. doi: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2026.121083. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background and Aims: Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) develops through cumulative exposure to causal risk factors, such as lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]. Evidence on how high Lp(a) shapes long-term absolute and relative ASCVD hazards across age and sex remains limited. We quantified age and sex-specific absolute and relative ASCVD hazards associated with high Lp(a) and assessed whether these age-related patterns differed between men and women. Methods: We included 19 495 adults without ASCVD at baseline with Lp(a) measured from the Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT3, 2006–08). Participants were followed for up to 16 years for first ASCVD event. Lp(a) was categorized as high (≥95th percentile; ≥252 nmol/L) versus low (≤74th percentile; ≤62 nmol/L). Standardized age and sex-specific hazard rates, hazard ratios (HRs), and hazard rate differences (HRDs) per 1000 person-years were estimated using multivariable cause-specific flexible parametric survival models. Results: High Lp(a) was associated with higher ASCVD hazards at all ages. In both sexes combined, the HR for high versus low Lp(a) declined from 2.42 (95% CI: 1.14–5.14) at age 40 to 1.24 (95% CI: 0.91–1.70) at age 90, while corresponding HRDs increased from 1.22 (95% CI: -0.24–2.67) to 6.97 (95% CI: -4.08–18.02) extra ASCVD events per 1000 person-years. Men had higher ASCVD hazards than women at all ages. HRs were broadly similar between sexes but tended to be slightly higher in women at midlife. However, the number of extra ASCVD events per 1000 person-years due to high Lp(a) increased with age in both sexes and was consistently higher in men compared to women. Conclusions: High Lp(a) is a long-term risk factor for ASCVD across adulthood, with a larger relative impact at younger ages, but causes more excess events in older adults, and particularly in men. These risk profiles may help clinicians prioritize Lp(a) testing and identify patients who may benefit from future Lp(a)-lowering therapies.

• Geleijnse, Gijs; Backes, Claudine; Chirlaque, Maria Dolores; Sloep, Matthijs; Navarro, Esteve Rodon & Šekerija, Mario [Vis alle 8 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Every cancer patient counts: strengthening European population-based cancer registries to improve cancer control. The Lancet Regional Health - Europe. 70. doi: 10.1016/j.lanepe.2026.101855.
• Sundsbarm, Sebastian; Bye, Asta; Tjønnfjord, Geir Erland; Iversen, Per Ole & Skaarud, Kristin Aneta Joan (2026). Nutrition impact symptoms and nutritional status in adult allo-HSCT recipients during 1-year follow-up. Bone Marrow Transplantation. ISSN 0268-3369. 61(S1), s. 1041–1098. doi: 10.1038/s41409-026-02887-0. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background: Nutrition impact symptoms (NIS) are contributors to impaired nutritional status in allo-HSCT patients. However, the impact of patients’ reported NIS on nutritional status are poorly described. This study investigated changes in NIS and nutritional status, and associations between NIS and nutritional status during a 1-year follow-up of allo-HSCT patients. Methods: We used data from 117 patients (57 intervention, 60 control) who participated in a randomized controlled nutritional intervention trial. Linear mixed models were used to analyse changes in NIS over time. Ordinal logistic regressions were used to analyse associations between NIS and nutritional status. Results: Nausea and vomiting and constipation were significantly lower in the intervention group than the control group during 1-year follow-up (p = 0.015 and p < 0.001, respectively). Initially, nutritional status declined in both study groups post-allo-HSCT but improved over time. Significantly fewer patients in the intervention group were malnourished at 3 weeks (p = 0.020) and 6 weeks post-transplantation (p = 0.028). Associations between NIS and nutritional status varied over time and differed between the study groups at 6 weeks post-transplantation (OR 3.702, 95% CI: (1.355, 10.100), p = 0.011). Conclusions: In conclusion, our findings emphasize the need for long term monitoring of symptoms and nutritional status in allo-HSCT patients, supporting individualized nutritional assessments as part of long-term care strategies. Disclosure: Geir Erland Tjønnfjord has received research grants from Mundipharma and Alexion Pharmaceuticals, advisory board honoraria from Alexion Pharmaceuticals and Johnson & Johnson, and lecture honoraria from Novartis, Johnson & Johnson, Alexion Pharmaceuticals, and Mundipharma. The other authors declare no competing interest.

• Dahlgren, Monica Linnea; Kværner, Ane Sørlie; Berstad, Paula Marianna; Hjartåker, Anette & Meshkovska, Biljana (2026). Acceptability of a digital diet- and lifestyle intervention in the Norwegian colorectal cancer screening program – A qualitative interview study. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Kværner, Ane Sørlie; Dahlgren, Monica Linnea; Berstad, Paula Marianna & Hjartåker, Anette (2026). The KoloPrev Study: A Randomized Controlled Trial of a Personalized Digital Diet and Lifestyle Intervention at Colorectal Cancer Screening. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Poster presentation

• Bjøntegaard, Marie Michaelsen & Andersen, Lene Frost (2026). Mapping study: Healthy, sustainable and resilient public plates. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Formålet med denne studien var å kartlegge prosjekter og initiativer som jobber for å oppnå sunnere og mer bærekraftig offentlig innkjøp av mat i Norge, samt prosjekter med fokus på å styrke lokal og nasjonal matberedskap. Det ble utført et litteratursøk med fokus på grålitteratur. Videre ble relevante personer invitert til å fylle ut et digitalt spørreskjema. Kartleggingen identifiserte 107 prosjekter og initiativer. Prosjektene fokuserte hovedsakelig på innkjøp av bærekraftig mat, der innkjøp av lokalmat var høyest prioritert, etterfulgt av aspekter som økologi, matsvinn og klimavennlig mat. Innkjøp av både sunn og bærekraftig mat ble i mindre grad prioritert (~31% av prosjekter), mens kun 2% av prosjektene jobbet for sunnere innkjøp.

• Isaksen, Irja Minde; Skeie, Guri; Brustad, Magritt; Kværner, Ane Sørlie; Thoresen, Magne & Hjartåker, Anette (2026). Dietary protein source and colorectal cancer risk in a prospective cohort of Norwegian women: preliminary results. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Uduma, Amara Synnøve; Sverre, Elise Christine Bjørkholen; Munkhaugen, John; Svarstad, Anja Camilla; Tuv, Silja Skogstad & Vethe, Nils Tore (2026). Effect of the ugt1a3*2 haplotype on pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of atorvastatin in patients with coronary heart disease. doi: https:/esc365.escardio.org/preventive-cardiology/sessions/18479-heterogeneity-of-vascular-and-atherosclerotic-risk-phenotypes. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Hovland, Ida Heir; Bang, Lasse; Herfindal, Anne Mari; Strømland, Stine Sofie; Bogetvedt, Tina & Jahanshahi, Armita [Vis alle 29 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). The Norwegian Microbiota Study in Anorexia Nervosa (NORMA): Integrating a clinical trial with preclinical experiments–A study protocol. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0342275. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background: Anorexia nervosa (AN) remains difficult to treat, partly due to co-occurring mental health challenges and gastrointestinal symptoms. Emerging research suggests that individuals with AN exhibit gut microbiota dysbiosis and dysregulation in the gut-brain axis (GBA). However, research examining the role of gut microbiota as a potential driver of AN-related pathologies remains limited. The Norwegian Microbiota Study in Anorexia Nervosa (NORMA) will therefore investigate gut microbiota and its interaction with the GBA in AN. Methods: NORMA is a collaboration between the Norwegian University of Life Sciences and seven Norwegian specialized eating disorder inpatient treatment units, consisting of three work packages (WP): a clinical observational trial (WP1), in vitro fermentation experiments (WP2), and animal experiments (WP3). In WP1, 90 patients with AN (age 16-50, BMI < 18.5) admitted for treatment and 90 healthy controls (HCs, age 16-50, BMI 18.5-27) will be recruited. Data on mental and physical health, dietary intake, and blood and fecal samples for biomarker and microbiota analyses will be collected at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks after start of treatment for AN patients and once for HCs. Outcomes will be compared between groups, and longitudinal effects of standard treatment examined within the AN group. In WP2, fecal microorganisms from patients and HCs will be grown in vitro to assess influence of prebiotics. In WP3, mice will receive fecal microbiota from AN and HC donors to determine if and how AN‑related microbiota affects AN‑relevant phenotypes. Conclusion: NORMA is pioneering in its integration of clinical, in vitro, and animal studies, providing the most comprehensive gut microbiota study of AN so far. By investigating the role of gut microbiota in AN and effects of standardized treatment on gut microbiota composition, this study aims to inform the development of innovative therapeutic strategies and ultimately improve treatment outcomes and life quality for individuals with AN. Trial registration: NORMA is a registered clinical trial: clinicaltrials.gov as NCT06144905.

• Angelsen, Madeleine Elisabeth; Najar, Hemen; Svendsen, Mette; Thoresen, Magne; Peleikis, Dawn Elisabeth & Retterstøl, Kjetil (2026). Clinical dietitian-led nutrition counseling and exercise to reduce cardiovascular risk in adults living with a BMI above 27 and severe mental illness: the NORMI-Heart trial protocol. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2026.1700251. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Spilde, Ingrid; Molin, Marianne; Kolby, Marit; Clausen, Maria Thompson; Brevik, Asgeir & Lied, Gülen Arslan [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2026). Norsk studie testet det motsatte av det vanlige rådet mot irritabel tarm. [Internet]. forskning.no. doi: https:/www.forskning.no/mat-og-helse-tarm-og-fordoyelse/norsk-studie-testet-det-motsatte-av-det-vanlige-radet-mot-irritabel-tarm/2626378. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Folk med irritabel tarm blir ofte rådet til å ikke gå lenge uten å spise. Men hva skjer om du gjør det motsatte og faster store deler av døgnet?

• Carlsen, Harald; Bøhn, Siv Kjølsrud; Rosa, Sabina Leanti La; Trømborg, Åsne Skram; Westereng, Bjørge & Carlsen, Monica Hauger [Vis alle 7 forfattere av denne artikkelen] (2025). AdHealth- introduksjon av et nytt forskningsprosjekt. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Oppstartsmøte for partnere i AdHealth

• Birkeland, Signe; Trømborg, Åsne Skram; Boysen, Preben; Carlsen, Monica Hauger & Carlsen, Harald (2025). On barrier functions in the mouse intestine. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Carlsen, Harald; Trømborg, Åsne Skram & Carlsen, Monica Hauger (2025). Food thickeners and their relation to health – a closer look at the gut. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Gjennomgang av litteraturen vedrørende fortykningsstoffer og tarmhelse på NutriNORs sommerskole 2025

• Granly, Emma Nilsen; Åhrling, Samaneh Shabani; Alvik, Karoline; Das, Siddhartha & Matthews, Jason (2025). Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Differentially Regulated Gene Expression Profiles in Resting and Polarized Bone Marrow-Derived Macrophages. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Åhrling, Samaneh Shabani; Das, Siddhartha; Olafsen, Ninni Elise; Granly, Emma Nilsen & Matthews, Jason (2025). Differential Effects of Loss and Pharmacological Inhibition of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor on Mammary Tumor Growth. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Slettahjell, Hanne Bjørg & Henriksen, Christine (2026). Managing Nutritional Risks in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: From Malnutrition to Obesity Prevention. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) induces rapid changes in body composition, energy metabolism, and nutritional requirements. Substantial skeletal muscle loss and reduced energy expenditure occur early after injury, while adipose tissue may accumulate even in the absence of weight gain. At the same time, weight loss and malnutrition are common during the acute and subacute phases, creating challenges for nutritional assessment and care. This thesis investigated nutritional challenges and changes in body composition during the first year after traumatic SCI. Three complementary studies examined longitudinal changes in body composition using neck-to-knee magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the prevalence of malnutrition and applicability of the Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria, and the effect of a structured, individualized dietitian-led nutritional intervention compared with usual care. Longitudinal MRI demonstrated substantial loss of skeletal muscle and accumulation of adipose tissue during the first year post-SCI, with more pronounced changes among individuals with motor complete injuries. Malnutrition was highly prevalent during subacute rehabilitation, while injury-related changes in body composition complicated the interpretation of reduced muscle mass as a criterion for malnutrition. In the randomized controlled trial, the intervention did not significantly affect the primary outcome, total fat mass. However, favorable between-group differences were observed for waist circumference and estimated visceral adipose tissue, suggesting that individualized dietitian-led nutritional care may attenuate adverse adiposity trajectories during the first year after SCI. Together, the findings demonstrate the complexity of nutritional risk following SCI and highlight the limitations of relying on body weight alone. Assessment of body composition, dietary intake, and individual energy requirements may provide a more comprehensive basis for tailored nutritional care. The findings highlight the potential value of structured, individualized dietitian-led nutritional follow-up as part of SCI rehabilitation and continued care after discharge.

• Lengle, Julie Marie & Andersen, Lene Frost (2026). Healthy and environmentally sustainable diets for Norway: current patterns and future scenarios. The NOR-Eden Project. Universitetet i Oslo. ISSN 9788234809033. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Current food systems fail to deliver good health and are major drivers of environmental change. The aim of this thesis was to address key questions about the health and environmental implications of implementing the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023 (NNR2023) and other dietary frameworks, including the Norwegian Food-Based Dietary Guidelines (FBDGs, 2012) and the EAT-Lancet Planetary Health Diet (PHD), under Norwegian conditions. The work uses detailed intake data from the national Norkost 3 (2010–2011) and Norkost 4 (2022–2023) dietary surveys of adults and older adults, linked to life cycle assessment data for six environmental indicators (e.g. greenhouse gas emissions, land use, eutrophication). We quantified the environmental impact of Norwegian adult diets across six indicators, assessed adequacy of utilizable protein in diets with higher plant protein shares, and applied constrained optimization to model culturally relevant diets that meet NNR2023 while reducing environmental pressures. Current Norwegian diets have high environmental footprints, largely driven by ruminant meat and dairy. Total protein intake is almost twice estimated requirements, and two thirds of protein comes from animal sources. Our analyses show that protein intake can be reduced and partially shifted from animal to plant sources without compromising adequacy for most adults, though some older women remain more vulnerable. FBDG aligned diets reduce environmental impacts, but more plant forward patterns and optimized NNR2023 consistent diets achieve considerably larger reductions, at the cost of marked changes in food choice. The findings highlight national FBDGs as a central tool to meet public health and environmental goals. However, the thesis work also underscores that achieving material dietary changes will require strong policy action and structural changes in food culture, particularly around ruminant meat, high fat dairy and the very low intake of legumes and other plant proteins.

• Henriksen, Christine; Paulsen, Mari Mohn & Bibi, Isbah Syeda (2026). Food intake in patients with head and neck cancer in the Nutrition Throughout the Treatment Course study. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  --- Abstract will be published: 2031-05-15

• Holland, Petter; Ottestad, Inger Olaug; Brunvoll, Sonja Hjellegjerde & Veland, Ingvild Kreken (2026). Identifying thymine glycol in DNA by nanopore sequencing. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background: Thymine glycol (Tg) is a common oxidative deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) lesion that can compromise genome stability, and has previously only been mapped using indirect, comprehensive methods. Endonuclease III-like protein 1 (NTHL1) aids in Tg repairment in base excision repair. Nanopore sequencing is a tool that permits direct sequencing off low sample amounts. Aim: This thesis aimed to develop a method for natively identifying and mapping Tg in DNA, for enabling clinical applicability. Methods: Two strategies for Tg detection were tested. First, isolated DNA from human embryotic kidney cells was studied using a catalytically dead 6xHistidine (His)-tagged NTHL1- K212Q, with point mutation generated by site‐directed mutagenesis, and a wild-type (wt) variant, both heterologously expressed. Second, in‐cell Tg was investigated in plasmids of wt and mutated, using FLAG-tagged NTHL1. In both strategies, cleavage under targets and tagmentation (CUT&Tag) was applied to generate Tg‐enriched DNA fragments, which were subsequently analyzed by nanopore sequencing and processed into graphical outputs. Results: 6xHis-NTHL1-K212Q from the isolated DNA strategy did not produce readable signals, whereas FLAG-NTHL1 from the in-cell strategy did. A follow-up experiment included NTHL1 and non-NTHL1 constructs, both yielding similar signal pattern to the initial in-cell experiment, a result consistent with Tn5 insertion bias. Conclusion: Isolated DNA experiments failed to yield reads, likely reflecting poor suitability of the adapted CUT&Tag protocol and potential effects of His-tagging and heterologous expression. In-cell experiments produced reads, but the sequence patterns were best explained by Tn5 insertion bias rather than NTHL1 binding or Tg detection. Overall, this study demonstrates that while CUT&Tag combined with nanopore sequencing is a conceptually promising native approach for Tg detection, the current implementation lacks sufficient robustness and sensitivity, and substantial methodological optimization is required.

• Jonvik, Kristin Lundanes; Skålhegg, Bjørn Steen & Andresen, Ina Mathea Tiller (2026). REDs-related indicators and contributors, and their associations to bone mineral density in wheelchair users. A cohort subproject of the BoneWheel Study. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Abstract Background: Wheelchair (WC) users are at increased risk of low bone mineral density (BMD), primarily due to reduced mechanical loading. Low BMD is also a primary indicator of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs), but it remains unclear whether low BMD in WC users is mainly explained by reduced mechanical loading or also associated with REDs-related indicators and contributors. Objective: This study aimed to describe REDs-related indicators and contributors in WC users, examine their associations with BMD Z-scores, explore differences across clinical, mobility, and physical activity subgroups, and compare questionnaire-based REDs screening with measured REDs-related indicators and contributors. Methods: Cross-sectional baseline data from 45 WC users with different impairments were analyzed. BMD and fat-free mass were assessed by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), with low BMD defined as Z-score < -1.0. Dietary intake was assessed by three 24-hour dietary recalls, and questionnaire-based REDs risk was assessed by the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q) and Low Energy Availability in Males Questionnaire (LEAM-Q). REDs-related indicators and contributors included low BMD, low triiodothyronine (T3), low testosterone, low estradiol, low estimated energy availability (EA), and low carbohydrate intake. Results: Low BMD was highly prevalent and the most frequent REDs-related indicator, affecting 43% at the lumbar spine, 79% at the femoral neck, and 76% at the total hip. Low carbohydrate intake was observed in 44%, low estimated EA was rare, no participants had low T3, and 48% of male participants had low testosterone. Estradiol interpretation was limited by missing data and hormonal contraceptive use. BMD Z-scores were not significantly associated with other REDs-related indicators or contributors in adjusted analyses. Femoral neck and total hip BMD Z-scores were lower in participants with cerebral palsy (CP) and spina bifida (SB) than in those with spinal cord injury (SCI), while total hip BMD Z-scores were higher in sports-active participants. Questionnaire-based screening outcomes generally did not correspond with measured indicators or contributors, except for an association between LEAM-Q and T3. Conclusion: Low BMD and low carbohydrate intake were common among WC users, but BMD Z-scores were not associated with other REDs-related indicators and contributors. BMD appeared more strongly influenced by diagnosis, physical function, and mechanical loading, underscoring the need for population-specific REDs assessment tools and cut-offs.

• Paulsen., Mari Mohn; Brantsæter., Anne Lise; Andersen., Lene Frost & Bolme., Mia (2026). Dietary Intake and Pesticide Residue Exposure in Adults in the Norwegian Environmental Biobank. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  --- Abstract and files will be published: 2031-05-15

• Carlsen, Monica Hauger; Rehbinder, Eva Maria; Saunders, Carina & Buran, Sofie Skjei (2026). Exploring the Diet and Anthropometry of three-year-olds in the PreventADALL study. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  --- Abstract and files will be published: 2029-05-15

• Holven., Kirsten Bjørklund; Retterstøl., Kjetil & Kubendraraj., Harsha (2026). Lipid changes through menopause in women with FH. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  --- Abstract and files will be published: 2031-05-15

• Aas, Anne-Marie; Carlsen, Monica Hauger; Bjerkan, Kirsti; Østli, Lise Mongstad; Sharma, Archana & Kvalsvik, Annie (2026). Development of a Dietary Index for Diabetes Prevention and Management and Its Application in Women with a History of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  --- Abstract and files will be published: 2027-05-15

• Retterstøl, Kjetil; Blomhoff, Rune; Brunvoll, Sonja Hjellegjerde; Kolle, Åshild & Tjelle, Marie (2026). Motivational interviewing and motivation in dietary treatment of colorectal cancer patients in the CRC-NORDIET study. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Abstract Background: Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a and collaborative guiding counselling approach designed to strengthen intrinsic motivation for change. It is grounded in partnership, acceptance, compassion, and evocation, and often described through four stages: engaging, focusing, evoking, and planning. Such behavioral support for lifestyle change may benefit various patient groups, including patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). CRC is the third most common cancer globally and the second most common in Norway. The Norwegian Dietary Guidelines and Colorectal Cancer Survival (CRC-NORDIET) study is a randomized controlled trial investigating a dietary intervention based on the Norwegian food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG). The intervention uses MI to support dietary change among the participants following CRC-surgery. Aim: The aim of this master´s project was to examine the impact of MI within the CRC-NORDIET diet intervention by describing changes in participants’ motivation throughout the first 3 years of the study. Dietary goals given across different levels of motivation was characterized and examined in relation to adherence to the Norwegian FBDG. Results: Over 70% of the participants reported high motivation for dietary change across all study visits during the intervention year. A significant decline in the high motivation group was observed during the 3-year follow-up, although, about half of the participants still reported high motivation. The most frequently assigned dietary goals were additive: increase intake of fruit, vegetables, fish, and increase in physical activity. Dietary goals related to alcohol, unnecessary supplement use, and salt reduction were least frequently assigned (reductive advice). No significant differences were observed between motivation groups regarding assigned dietary goals or adherence to the Norwegian FBDG at baseline. However, participants in the high motivation group had a significantly higher intake of unsalted nuts (p=0.02) and lower alcohol intake (p=0.01) than participants in the low motivation group initially. Conclusion: Participants maintained a high motivation for dietary change throughout the 3-year follow-up, although motivation declined over time. Additive dietary advice may have been perceived as more achievable compared to reductive dietary advice which is more likely to be experienced as restrictive and involving greater sacrifice. The use of MI may have influenced participants’ motivation, however, this could not be assessed in the present thesis. Nevertheless, it is plausible that MI may have contributed to sustaining motivation for dietary changes.

• Carlsen, Monica Hauger; Andersen, Lene Frost; Rehbinder, Eva Maria & Bjerkvoll, Maria Bøye (2026). Protein and Amino Acid Adequacy, Dietary Climate Emissions and Protein Sources among Young Norwegian Children. Dietary Assessment of Three-Year-Olds in the PreventADALL Study. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Introduction: In the diet, animal protein sources (APS) have higher protein quality compared to plant protein sources (PPS) due to higher digestibility and more beneficial composition of indispensable amino acids (IAAs). Also, APS have higher climate footprint than PPS, and a high consumption of APS is thus not considered sustainable. To reduce climate emissions from diets, there is recommended to substitute some APS with PPS. In the context of such a dietary transition, it is important to consider the adequacy of digestible protein and IAA intakes. As of today, digestible protein and IAA adequacy is not assessed in the diet of Norwegian children. Aims: This present Master´s thesis aimed to assess the plant protein proportion (PPP) among Norwegian three-year-olds, and to assess its relationship with the children´s dietary habits, sex and anthropometrics, and the caregivers´ living environment and education level. Further, this thesis aimed to assess the relationship between PPP and protein adequacy and dietary climate emissions, and to compare the intake of main protein sources with the EAT-Lancet diet. Method: Dietary intakes among 989 of 2394 three-year-olds participating in the PreventADALL study were collected from a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and data on dietary habits were collected from 637 of these. Data on child´s sex, weight and height, and caregivers´ living environment, education level and age, and mothers´ body mass index (BMI) were also collected. NutriFoodCalc (NFC) was used to assess daily intakes of energy, protein, IAAs and food products, and dietary global warming potential (GWP) for each food product. The PPP (%) was calculated as daily plant protein intake relative to daily total protein intake. Digestible protein adequacy was assessed using true ileal digestibility (TID) values and the Protein Adequacy and Quality Score (PAQS). Dietary climate emissions were assessed as GWP (kg CO2-equivalents) and compared to dietary emission boundaries from EAT-Lancet Commission, and intakes of main protein sources were compared to intake targets and ranges in the EAT-Lancet diet. Trends across PPP quintiles were analyzed for the children´s dietary habits, sex, anthropometrics, and the caregivers´ living environment and education level, and for protein and IAA adequacy, GWP and daily intakes of main protein sources. Results: The median PPP in the 989 three-year-olds was 35% and ranged from 25% in the first PPP quintile to 48% in the fifth quintile. With increasing PPP quintiles, there was an increasing trend in avoidance of dairy and eggs due to food allergies or intolerances, and a higher proportion of boys. No trends in children´s BMI and caregivers´ living environment and education level were observed across the quintiles. All children had adequate intakes of digestible protein and IAAs, although intakes of crude protein and digestible protein and IAAs decreased over the PPP quintiles. Dietary GWP exceeded the climate boundaries set by EAT-Lancet in all PPP quintiles, and dairy products and red meat were the main contributors in all quintiles. Despite a GWP reduction over the PPP quintiles, driven primarily by reduced dairy emissions, the GWP in the fifth PPP quintile still exceeded the climate boundaries by more than two times. Intakes of dairy and red meat exceeded upper intake limits in the EAT-Lancet diet, whereas intakes of pulses, nuts and seeds and poultry were below optimal intake targets in our sample. Despite significant reduced intake of all APS over PPP quintiles, red meat intake still exceeded the upper intake limit in the fifth PPP quintile, and dairy intake was just barely below its upper intake limit in this quintile. Conclusion: Among young Norwegian children, most of the daily protein intake is from APS. Thus, digestible protein and IAA inadequacy is not common in this population. The high intake of APS contributes to unsustainably high dietary climate emissions, of which milk, yoghurt, and red meat contribute the most. The intakes of dairy and red meat are too high, whereas consumption of pulses, nuts and seeds and poultry are lower than optimal to align with a sustainable diet according to EAT-Lancet Commission. Shifting towards more plant-based diets would reduce dietary climate emissions without compromising digestible protein and IAA adequacy. Among young Norwegian children, a sustainable dietary transition would be to reduce intake of dairy products and red meat in favor of more PPS, especially pulses, nuts and seeds, and to choose lower-impact APS such as poultry, fish and eggs.

• Paur, Ingvild; Henriksen, Christine; Gjelstad, Ingrid Fange & Eidsvåg, Eira Bolme (2026). Micronutrient and carotenoid status measured in blood samples from patients in the rehabilitation phase after head and neck cancer. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  --- Abstract will be published: 2031-05-15

• Carlsen, Monica Hauger; Ottestad, Inger Olaug; Birkeland, Kåre Inge; Sharma, Archana & Cisman, Hanna Nasir (2026). Associations between dietary factors and glucose metabolism in South Asian and Nordic women with previous gestational diabetes. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Abstract Background: South Asian populations are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), often at a younger age and at lower body mass index levels than other ethnic groups. This increased susceptibility is partly explained by a genetic predisposition that results in a distinct metabolic profile, characterised by limited adipose tissue buffering capacity and greater ectopic fat deposition. In addition, they have an impaired beta-cell compensatory function. Women with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) represent a particularly high-risk group, and dietary patterns are among the most important modifiable risk factors influencing the progression to T2DM Aim: This master’s thesis aimed to describe the dietary intake of South Asian and Nordic women with previous GDM, and to investigate the association between dietary intake, insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function. Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from the DIASA 1 study and included 227 women with previous GDM, 133 South Asian women and 94 Nordic women, recruited from three hospitals in the Oslo area. Two datasets were used in this master’s thesis, one containing key background and clinical characteristics collected at the study visit, and one containing dietary data assessed by a culturally adapted web-based food frequency questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were performed to describe macronutrient, micronutrient and food group intake. Compliance with the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations 2023 was also evaluated. Multivariable linear regression analyses, including isocaloric substitution models and assessment of effect modification by ethnicity, were performed to examine associations between dietary intake and parameters of insulin sensitivity and beta-cell function. Results: Dietary patterns differed between the two groups. South Asian women had a higher percentage of energy from carbohydrates (44 vs 40 E%) and dietary fibre (2.7 vs 2.4 E%), and a lower percentage from saturated fat (11 vs 13 E%) compared with Nordic women. They also consumed less red meat (12 vs 68 g/day). Although total protein intake, assessed both as E% and g/day, did not differ between the groups, a higher proportion of South Asian women had a protein intake below the NNR2023 recommendation of 0.83 g/kg body weight compared with Nordic women (20% vs 9%, respectively). South Asian women also had a higher vitamin D intake than Nordic women (15 vs 9.3 µg/day), largely driven by supplement use. Energy percentages from neither saturated fat nor carbohydrate intakes were significantly associated with insulin sensitivity or beta-cell function in fully adjusted models. However, carbohydrate quality, defined as the fibre-to-carbohydrate ratio, was positively associated with both HOMA2-S (β= 0.44, p<0.001) and the Matsuda Index (β= 0.37, p=0.002), with no interaction by ethnicity. An unexpected ethnicity-specific interaction was observed for energy percentage from saturated fat intake and beta-cell function (Disposition Index, p=0.013), in the opposite direction of the hypothesis. Conclusion: Dietary patterns differed between South Asian and Nordic women with previous GDM, with the South Asian group showing a relatively more favourable nutrient profile. Carbohydrate quality was the most relevant dietary determinant of insulin sensitivity in this population. The observed ethnicity-specific interaction for saturated fat and beta-cell function most likely reflected broader differences in dietary patterns rather than an isolated effect of saturated fat. Further studies are needed to determine whether culturally tailored dietary recommendations can influence the metabolic susceptibility in South Asian women with previous GDM.

• Dalen, Knut Tomas; Retterstøl, Kjetil; Saraj, Dinia & Brevik, Oda Kallevig (2026). Impact of dietary long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids on hepatic gene expression in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Abstract Introduction: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the third biggest cause of death in Norway, and the largest in terms of health cost. The concept of AD as a systemic disorder is emerging, with evidence suggesting the liver may influence disease progression through metabolic and clearance pathways. Long-chain omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) regulate hepatic lipid metabolism and may influence mechanisms relevant to AD pathology, but their effect on hepatic gene expression in AD remain underexplored. In this master’s thesis the aim was to investigate hepatic transcriptional responses to a long-chain omega-3 PUFA rich diet in a mouse model of AD, focusing on lipid metabolism, inflammation and AD-associated genes. Materials and methods: Hepatic gene expression was analysed by RNA-sequencing in C57BL/6N wild type (WT) and the AD model 5xFAD mice fed diets with low or enriched content of long-chain omega-3 PUFAs (EPAX) for five months. Differential expression analysis was performed within each genotype using DESeq2, followed by pathway analysis. Results: In the 5xFAD mice fed the EPAX diet, transcriptional changes were consistent with increased fatty acid β-oxidation, peroxisomal metabolism, and PPARα-associated lipid metabolism. Pathway analysis predicted activation of lipid metabolism regulated by PPARα in the 5xFAD fed the EPAX diet and was supported by altered expression of several PPARα target genes. In contrast, WT mice showed a more limited transcriptional response, with predicted activation of pathways involved in peroxisomal protein import and peroxisomal lipid metabolism, but no clear indication of PPARα activation. Expression of genes involved in endogenous long-chain omega-3 PUFA synthesis was reduced in both genotypes, while inflammatory gene expression was largely unaffected. Genes related to potential AD-related processes and the liver-brain axis, showed modest or no changes. Conclusion: This results in this master’s thesis suggests that the EPAX diet compared to control diet induced changes in hepatic gene expression. In particular, the findings indicate that long-chain omega-3 PUFAs may promote a shift towards increased fatty acid oxidation and PPARα-associated lipid metabolism in 5xFAD mice. Direct comparisons between the AD model and WT were not conducted, but the transcriptional response appeared more pronounced in the AD model. Further studies are needed to determine whether these hepatic transcriptional changes can influence AD pathology.

• Retterstøl, Kjetil; Peleikis, Dawn Elizabeth & Lindberg, Liv Anna Constanse Andersen (2026). Evaluating the Efficacy of a six-week Individualized Dietary Intervention on Dietary Patterns and Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in Patients with ADHD: A Mixed Methods Randomized Controlled Trial. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Introduction: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults is characterized by persistent difficulties with attention regulation and hyperactivity/impulsivity and associated with impaired executive and emotional functioning. The disorder affects multiple domains of life, including physical health, and is linked to increased mortality and reduced life expectancy, partly due to lifestyle-related factors such as unhealthy diet. Research on dietary patterns in adults with ADHD is limited. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of individualized dietary counselling on dietary patterns and cardiovascular risk factors in adults with ADHD. The primary outcome was change in diet quality assessed by the diet index score derived from the DIGIKOST-FFQ. Secondary outcomes included biological and anthropometric measures. The study also explored participants dietary habits and lifestyle-related factors. Method: A randomized controlled parallel-group trial was conducted among adults with confirmed ADHD recruited from psychiatric outpatient clinics in Vestre Viken Health Trust. Participants were allocated to the intervention group or the control group. The intervention including one counselling session based on national guidelines and motivational interviewing, with follow-up after three weeks. Bothe groups concluded data collection at baseline measurements and final measurements after six weeks. The control group received no counselling prior to the final measurements. Data collection included anthropometric measures, blood samples, and dietary assessment using a 24-hour recall and DIGIKOST-FFQ. Results: A total of 67 participants were included, with 33 randomized to the intervention group and 34 to the control group. Significant between-group differences were observed for the primary outcome, with improved diet quality in the intervention group. Between-group analyses showed significant improvement in non-HDL cholesterol and waist circumference. Within the intervention group significant reduction were observed in HbA1c, body weight, and waist circumference, while the control group showed a significant reduction in ASAT. Qualitative data identified four main themes influencing dietary behaviour, meal patterns; hunger and satiety, and ADHD-related symptoms; and changes following the intervention. Conclusion: Individualized dietary guidance improved dietary patterns in adults with ADHD, reflected by increased diet index score and selected cardiovascular risk markers. The findings suggest that tailored dietary guidance may be effective, when focusing on implementation of dietary changes in daily life. Further research is needed to assess long-term effects.

• Øhman, Elisabeth Adolfsen; Brekke, Hilde Kristin & Babawat, Shelan Mohammed (2026). Intake of food groups and nutrients among women with overweight and obesity after childbirth. Data from the randomized controlled EVA study. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv
• Thomassen, Rut Anne; Henriksen, Christine & Brun, Anne Charlotte (2026). Effect of prebiotics in children with intestinal failure. Gut feeling or evidence-based practice? Universitetet i Oslo. ISSN 9788234808289. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Intestinal failure is a rare but severe condition in which the gut cannot absorb enough nutrients and fluids to sustain health and growth, necessitating long term parenteral nutrition. While lifesaving, parenteral nutrition carries medical risks and places a substantial burden on children and their families. Gastrointestinal symptoms are common and may limit progression toward enteral nutrition and independence from parenteral support. These symptoms may be linked to dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. Antibiotics are commonly used as treatment, but alternative strategies are needed. Prebiotics, nondigestible food components that selectively stimulate beneficial gut bacteria, may improve microbiota balance, reduce gastrointestinal symptoms, and potentially enhance health related quality of life. This thesis investigates how nutritional support and gastrointestinal symptoms influence health related quality of life in children with intestinal failure and their families and evaluates prebiotic supplementation as a potential therapeutic approach. Using baseline data from a cross sectional analysis, health related quality of life was assessed. Parent reported quality of life was markedly reduced compared with healthy peers, whereas children’s self reports did not differ significantly. The need for parenteral nutrition placed a substantial burden on parents and impaired family functioning. Gastrointestinal symptoms were strongly associated with reduced quality of life. In a randomized controlled trial, prebiotic supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in gastrointestinal symptoms. Microbiota composition was altered, including increases in selected beneficial taxa and transient reductions in potentially pro inflammatory bacteria. Responses varied according to baseline microbiota composition and intestinal anatomy. Prebiotics may therefore benefit a subset of children with intestinal failure and highlight the importance of individualised care.

• Zegeye, Fikirte Debebe; Samulin-Erdem, Johanna Maria; Straumfors, Anne & Matthews, Jason (2026). Occupational exposure and associated health effects among workers in the shrimp processing industry. Universitetet i Oslo. ISSN 9788234807909. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Respiratory ailments, such as cough, breathlessness, asthma and allergy, are prevalent among workers in the seafood industry. These health problems have largely been attributed to exposure to allergenic proteins, yet the contributions of other components in the work environment remain insufficiently understood. The aim of this thesis was to investigate the relationship between occupational exposure to allergenic proteins and microbial agents in shrimp processing environments and respiratory health outcomes, including symptoms, allergic sensitisation, and inflammatory responses. Respiratory symptoms as well as allergy and asthma-related biomarkers were assessed among Norwegian shrimp processing workers using questionnaires and blood analyses. Occupational exposure was characterised through work-environment air sampling, protein measurements, microbial identification, and proteomic analyses. Shrimp processing workers reported a higher prevalence of upper and chronic lower respiratory symptoms than controls and exhibited elevated levels of inflammatory, allergy and asthma-related biomarkers. Multiple known and potential shrimp allergens were identified in workplace air, with particularly high levels of tropomyosin detected during shrimp cooking. Airborne microbial exposure was further characterised across different shrimp processing tasks using full-shift personal air sampling and molecular analyses. Higher bacterial load, species richness, and immune activation potential were observed during work processes involving raw shrimp, while cooking substantially reduced bacterial exposure. Experimental studies using human alveolar co-culture cell models demonstrated that combined exposure to shrimp allergens and microbial components can enhance inflammatory responses relative to individual exposures. Overall, the findings demonstrate that complex occupational bioaerosol exposure contributes to respiratory health risks among shrimp-processing workers, with task-specific exposure differences underscoring the need for targeted preventive measures.

• Brekke, Hilde Kristin; Øhman, Elisabeth Adolfsen; Knutsen, Helle Katrine & S., Gabianoo-Adjanoh, Christine K. (2026). Changes in PFOA and PFOS concentrations in breast milk from 2 weeks to 6 months postpartum and their association with maternal weight loss. Universitetet i Oslo. Fulltekst i vitenarkiv Vis sammendrag

  Background: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental contaminants detected in breast milk and transferred to infants through breastfeeding. Postpartum weight loss is recommended to improve maternal health, but mobilization of chemicals during weight loss could theoretically increase infant exposure through breast milk. Aim: To describe concentrations of PFAS in breast milk at 2 weeks and 6 months postpartum, and to investigate whether changes in PFAS concentrations are associated with postpartum weight change between these time points. Methods: Observational study of 50 lactating women followed from 2 weeks to 6 months postpartum. Breast milk samples were collected at both timepoints and analyzed for PFAS concentrations. Weight was measured at baseline and 6-month follow-up. Median regression was used to examine associations between postpartum weight change and changes in PFAS concentrations. Results: Of the analyzed PFAS, only PFOS and PFOA were detected in sufficient amounts to be included in further statistical analyses. PFOA concentration in breast milk decreased significantly from a mean of 0.032 ng/mL (SD 0.017) at baseline to 0.015 ng/mL (SD 0.008) at follow-up, corresponding to a mean reduction of 0.017 ng/mL (p < 0.001). In contrast, PFOS concentrations remained low and stable, with no statistically significant change over time (p = 0.67). Mean postpartum weight loss was 6.3 kg (SD 4.32) from baseline to 6 months. Postpartum weight change was not significantly associated with changes in PFOA or PFOS concentrations. Conclusion: PFOA concentrations in breast milk decreased substantially from 2 weeks to 6 months postpartum, while PFOS levels remained unchanged, and no significant evidence was found that postpartum weight loss increased PFAS concentrations in breast milk. These findings suggest that moderate postpartum weight loss may not increase infant PFAS exposure through breastfeeding in this population, but further studies in larger and more diverse cohorts are needed.

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