Impact of Fluoride on Epigenetic and Metabolic Dynamics in the Ileum:
Unveiling the Adaptive Responses in NOD Mice
Abstract
Fluoride (F) has been employed worldwide to control dental caries. More
recently, it has been suggested that the consumption of low doses of F
in the drinking water may reduce blood glucose levels, introducing a new
perspective for the use of F for the management of blood glucose.
However, the exact mechanism by which F affects blood glucose levels
remains largely unexplored. Given that the small gut plays a pivotal
role in glucose homeostasis, the aim of this present study was to
investigate the proteomic changes induced by low doses of F in the ileum
of female non-obese-diabetic (NOD) mice. Forty-two female NOD mice were
divided into two groups based on the F concentration in their for 14
weeks: 0 (control) or 10 mg/L. At the end of the experimental period,
the ileum was collected for proteomic and Western Blotting analyses.
Proteomic analysis indicated an increase in isoforms of actin,
gastrotropin (confirmed by Western Blotting), several H2B histones and
enzymes involved in antioxidant processes, as well as a decrease in
enzymes essential for energy metabolism. In summary, our data indicates
an adaptive response of the organism to preserve protein synthesis in
the ileum, despite significant alterations in energy metabolism
typically induced by F, therefore highlighting the safety of controlled
fluoridation in water supplies.