Mice that got the supplement had fewer immune cells in their fat tissue compared to mice that didn't get it.
Scientific Claim
N-acetylcysteine supplementation reduced macrophage infiltration in white adipose tissue by approximately 33-40% in male C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet compared to untreated high-fat diet mice, as measured by mRNA levels of Cd68, F4/80, and Cd11c.
Original Statement
“Results in Fig. 3a–c show that HFD-induced macrophage infiltration, as evidenced by increased mRNA levels of macrophage specific marker genes Cd68, F4/80, and Cd11c, by ~33.2, 22.3-, and 40.6-fold, respectively, over that of control animals fed regular chow. In contrast, induced expression of these genes is markedly suppressed by NAC treatment.”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
overstated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study shows an association between NAC and reduced macrophage markers in mice, but cannot prove causation due to study design limitations. The claim states specific percentage reductions which aren't explicitly stated in the excerpt.
More Accurate Statement
“N-acetylcysteine supplementation was associated with reduced expression of macrophage marker genes (Cd68, F4/80, Cd11c) in white adipose tissue of male C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet compared to untreated high-fat diet mice.”
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
N-acetylcysteine Protects Mice from High Fat Diet-induced Metabolic Disorders