The immune cells in mice eating olive oil and nuts had fewer 'danger signals' on their surface than those eating a fatty Western diet, making them less likely to trigger inflammation.

Scientific Claim

In male Ldlr–/– mice, a diet with extra-virgin olive oil and nuts (EVOND) was associated with reduced expression of CD11c and CD36 on circulating monocytes compared to a Western diet, indicating a shift toward a less inflammatory monocyte phenotype.

Original Statement

“Compared to those in the WD group, CD36+ monocytes in the EVOND group, with less lipid accumulation, had reduced CD11c MFI levels (Figures 3D, Supplemental Figure VI B). ... monocytes in mice fed EVOND expressed lower level of CD36 than those fed WD (Figure 4B).”

From study:Replacing Saturated Fat With Unsaturated Fat in Western Diet Reduces Foamy Monocytes and Atherosclerosis in Male Ldlr-/- Mice.

Evidence Quality Assessment

Claim Status

appropriately stated

Study Design Support

Design supports claim

Appropriate Language Strength

association

Can only show association/correlation

Assessment Explanation

The study demonstrates a clear association between diet and protein expression levels, but does not prove these changes directly cause reduced atherosclerosis. Association is the correct verb strength.

Evidence from Studies

Supporting (1)

Replacing Saturated Fat With Unsaturated Fat in Western Diet Reduces Foamy Monocytes and Atherosclerosis in Male Ldlr-/- Mice.

Cohort Study

Animal

2020 Jan

Contradicting (0)

No contradicting evidence found

Source Study

Replacing Saturated Fat With Unsaturated Fat in Western Diet Reduces Foamy Monocytes and Atherosclerosis in Male Ldlr-/- Mice.

Score: 15

DOI: 10.1161/ATVBAHA.119.313078

Similar Assertions

The plaques in mice eating olive oil and nuts had fewer inflammatory immune cells inside them than plaques in mice eating a fatty diet.

85%

When immune cells from mice eating olive oil and nuts were provoked in a lab, they released less of the inflammatory chemicals than cells from mice eating butter.

80%

When immune cells from mice eating olive oil and nuts were tested in a dish, they absorbed less of the bad cholesterol that clogs arteries than cells from mice eating butter.

79%

Mice eating olive oil and nuts had fewer fat-filled immune cells in their blood than mice eating butter, which may help prevent artery damage.

77%

Mice that ate olive oil and nuts instead of butter had less cholesterol and fat in their blood, which might help keep their arteries from getting clogged.

75%