Gene expression after dietary intervention with trans fatty acids (trans‐11/trans‐12 18:1) in humans

Gene‐by‐diet interactions play an important role in the prevention of several diseases. Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) are ligands of gene regulators [e.g. peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPAR)] and have anti‐inflammatory properties. The aim of the study was to investigate the changes in gene expression in monocytes during the intervention with two trans fatty acids (trans‐11 18:1 and trans‐12 18:1) and endogenous CLA from trans‐11 18:1 as precursor in humans. Monocytes were isolated at baseline and after a 6‐week intervention period. The female and male test groups received Σ6.0 g trans‐11 and trans‐12 18:1/day (1 : 1). The control group received control oil. The expression of candidate genes was determined by quantitative RT‐PCR. Gender‐ and treatment‐related gene expression was found. Due to trans fatty acid intake in both gender subgroups, the relative PPARγ expression was up‐regulated. In the female test group, the expression of FAT, SCD, COX2 and BCL2 were induced, while in the male test group E‐FABP, CYP, GLUT4 and PBE were induced. In the male test group compared to controls, a clear increase in gene expression of PPARγ and GLUT4 was shown. The results reveal a gender‐ and treatment‐related gene expression. There is no clear indication as to what extent the supplemented trans fatty acids and the synthesized cis‐9,trans‐11 CLA were involved.