Mice that got the supplement had lower levels of a gene that helps store fat in their livers compared to mice that didn't get it.
Scientific Claim
N-acetylcysteine supplementation reduced hepatic Pparγ expression by approximately 50% in male C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet compared to untreated high-fat diet mice, as measured by mRNA levels.
Original Statement
“As shown in Fig. 6a–d, HFD significantly enhanced mRNA levels of hepatic Pparγ1 and Pparγ2 by 2.7- and 4.8-fold, respectively, compared to that of chow fed animals. In contrast, NAC treatment significantly inhibited Pparγ expression, suppressing the induction of its target genes, including Cd36 (84%) and monoacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1 (Mgat1, 98%).”
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 Pparγ expression in mice, but cannot prove causation due to study design limitations. The claim states a specific 50% reduction which isn't explicitly stated in the excerpt.
More Accurate Statement
“N-acetylcysteine supplementation was associated with reduced hepatic Pparγ expression in male C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet compared to untreated high-fat diet mice, as measured by mRNA levels.”
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
N-acetylcysteine Protects Mice from High Fat Diet-induced Metabolic Disorders