The Choice to Live in Health or in Disease — the book, chapter by chapter

1

Nutrition and changes in our habits

The evolution of human nutrition: nutritional transformations, glycemic response, and implications for metabolic health

The evolution of human nutrition tells the story of the transition from hunting and gathering to agriculture, and finally to the current widespread consumption of industrial foods. These changes have altered nutrient availability, eating habits, and the relationship between diet and metabolism. Understanding how nutrition has transformed helps to interpret some of the challenges of modern health. The book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease" by Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explores this journey through history and biology.

2

Glycemia and insulin in the meal response

Glycemic and insulin regulation: the role of nutrition, hepatic clearance, and early indicators of metabolic risk

The composition of meals influences the body's glycemic and insulin response through processes involving digestion, nutrient absorption, and metabolic regulation. Glycemic index, glycemic load, and insulin response are useful tools for understanding the impact of food, although they do not fully describe the complexity of a diet on their own. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi delve into these indicators and their significance for metabolic health.

3

Glycemic variability and alterations preceding diabetes

Glycemic variability, hepatic clearance, and hyperinsulinemia: early mechanisms of insulin resistance and metabolic deterioration

Glucose regulation depends on the interaction between insulin secretion by pancreatic β-cells, hepatic insulin clearance, and tissue sensitivity to the hormone. Glycemic variability, hyperinsulinemia, and insulin resistance describe different but closely linked phenomena that can manifest before evident changes in glycemia. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi analyze these mechanisms to understand the evolution of metabolic alterations and their implications for health.

4

Insulin signaling and the cell's ability to adapt

The PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway in insulin regulation: molecular mechanisms and implications in insulin resistance

The insulin pathway represents one of the primary cellular communication systems through which insulin regulates metabolism, growth, and nutrient utilization. The IRS-1/2, PI3K, AKT, and mTOR pathways coordinate numerous biological processes, while regulators such as AMPK and TSC1/2 contribute to controlling energy balance. In the book "La scelta di Vivere in Salute o in Malattia" (The Choice to Live in Health or Disease), Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore these molecular mechanisms and their involvement in health and chronic diseases.

5

The dialogue between metabolism and inflammation

Chronic hyperinsulinemia and inflammation: molecular interactions between lipid metabolism and immune response

Inflammation is an essential biological response for the body's defense, but when it becomes persistent, it can contribute to the development of numerous chronic diseases. Lipid metabolism, arachidonic acid, prostaglandins, and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways participate in the regulation of inflammatory signals. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi analyze the connections between insulin, cellular metabolism, and inflammation, distinguishing physiological mechanisms from pathological alterations.

6

Immune defenses and their metabolic balance

Immunometabolism and regulation of the immune response: the role of mTOR, AMPK, HIF-1α, and FOXP3

The immune system protects the body through a complex network of cells, molecules, and signals that coordinate defense and immunological tolerance. T and B lymphocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells, and Th17 and Treg populations also depend on specific metabolic programs regulated by mTOR, AMPK, and other cellular pathways. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore the relationship between immunity, metabolism, and the development of autoimmune diseases.

7

Rheumatoid arthritis and joint response metabolism

Rheumatoid arthritis and immunometabolism: the role of mTOR, HIF-1α, and the Th17/Treg balance in the inflammatory response

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints, in which immune cells and inflammatory mediators contribute to joint damage. Research on immunometabolism highlights the involvement of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways, glycolysis, and the balance between Th17 and Treg lymphocytes. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi delve into these processes to understand the biological connections between metabolism, inflammation, and autoimmunity.

8

Psoriasis and signals crossing the skin

Psoriasis and immunometabolism: the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling, HIF-1α, and the Th17/Treg imbalance

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease that involves keratinocyte proliferation and the activation of specific immune responses. The IL-23/Th17, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and HIF-1α pathways participate in the cellular processes associated with skin inflammation and alterations in epidermal growth. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi analyze the relationship between cellular metabolism, immune regulation, and the manifestations of psoriasis, offering a biological interpretation of the disease.

9

Lupus and the complexity of immune tolerance

Systemic lupus erythematosus and immunometabolism: the role of mTOR, HIF-1α, and lymphocyte balance in the loss of immune tolerance

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a complex autoimmune disease characterized by the production of autoantibodies and inflammatory processes that can affect various organs. B-cell activity, the balance between Tfh, Tfr, and Treg populations, and metabolic regulation via mTOR are key areas of immunological research. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore these mechanisms and the perspectives offered by the study of immunometabolism.

10

The gut and maintenance of the immune barrier

Inflammatory bowel diseases and immunometabolism: the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR, HIF-1α, and the Th17/Treg balance

Inflammatory bowel diseases, or IBD, primarily include Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Their origin involves genetic predisposition, gut microbiota, alterations of the epithelial barrier, and immune dysregulation. Metabolic and inflammatory pathways, including PI3K/AKT/mTOR, are involved in the processes studied in the pathogenesis of these conditions. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore the connections between the gut, metabolism, and chronic inflammation.

11

Multiple sclerosis and nervous system protection

Multiple sclerosis and immunometabolism: the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR, HIF-1α, and insulin dysfunction in neuroinflammation

Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system in which immune-mediated processes damage myelin and nerve structures. Research is investigating the role of Th17 and Treg lymphocytes, neuroinflammation, and the metabolic mechanisms regulated by PI3K/AKT/mTOR and AMPK. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore these connections to explain how immunity, energy metabolism, and neuronal function can influence one another.

12

Hashimoto and the interplay between immunity and thyroid function

Hashimoto's thyroiditis and immunometabolism: the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR, autophagy, and Th17/Treg imbalance in thyroid autoimmunity

Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune thyroid disease characterized by persistent inflammation that can progressively impair the production of thyroid hormones. Autoantibodies, lymphocytes, and alterations in immune tolerance participate in the process, while the study of immunometabolism helps clarify certain cellular mechanisms. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore the relationship between thyroid function, metabolism, and immune system regulation.

13

Type 1 diabetes and pancreatic cell loss

Type 1 diabetes and immunometabolism: the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR, HIF-1α, and lymphocyte regulation in β-cell damage

Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of pancreatic β-cells, which are responsible for insulin production. Scientific research is delving into the role of lymphocytes, inflammation, and the immunometabolic mechanisms involved in the loss of immune tolerance. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi analyze these processes, exploring the connections between cellular metabolism, autoimmunity, and the progressive impairment of pancreatic function.

14

Type 2 diabetes and progressive metabolic deterioration

Type 2 diabetes: glycemic variability, hyperinsulinemia, and AMPK/mTOR dysregulation in the progression of β-cell dysfunction

Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic condition characterized by alterations in insulin sensitivity and a progressive impairment of pancreatic β-cell function. Hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and dysfunctions of the PI3K/AKT pathways contribute to the complexity of the disease. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore these mechanisms in depth, as well as the role of nutrition and lifestyle in the prevention and management of metabolic risk.

15

Alzheimer and cerebral metabolic fragility

Alzheimer's disease and immunometabolic dysfunction: the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR, HIF-1α, and cerebral insulin resistance in neurodegeneration

Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by a progressive deterioration of cognitive functions. In addition to the accumulation of beta-amyloid and alterations in the tau protein, research is exploring the contribution of neuroinflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and alterations in cerebral insulin signaling. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi delve into the relationship between energy metabolism, PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways, and neurodegenerative processes.

16

Tumors and the organization of the metabolic microenvironment

Tumor metabolism and the neoplastic microenvironment: the role of PI3K/AKT/mTOR, HIF-1α, lactate, and immunoregulation in oncological progression

The development of tumors involves genetic alterations, uncontrolled cell proliferation, and modifications to the metabolic programs that regulate growth and survival. The PI3K/AKT/mTOR and HIF-1α pathways, as well as angiogenesis processes, represent important areas of oncological research, also due to their interactions with the tumor environment and the immune system. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore these molecular mechanisms and their relevance in tumor biology.

17

Atherosclerosis and protection of the vascular wall

Atherosclerosis and metabolic dysfunction: the role of insulin signaling, nitric oxide, and oxidized LDL in the progression of vascular damage

Atherosclerosis is a pathological process involving the accumulation of lipids in the arterial wall, endothelial dysfunction, and the activation of inflammatory responses. Modified LDL lipoproteins, macrophages, and oxidative stress mechanisms contribute to the formation and progression of atherosclerotic plaques. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi analyze the connections between lipid metabolism, inflammation, and cardiovascular risk, delving into the cellular processes involved.

18

Dietary quality in daily prevention

Glycemic and insulinemic impact of diet: metabolic, cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and oncological implications

Nutrition is one of the main modifiable factors influencing metabolic and cardiovascular health. Food quality, meal composition, micronutrient intake, and macronutrient distribution contribute to the regulation of glycemia, insulin response, and inflammation. In the book "La scelta di Vivere in Salute o in Malattia" (The Choice to Live in Health or Disease), Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore the relationship between dietary choices, cellular function, and the prevention of chronic diseases through a biological interpretation of nutrition.

19

Movement and the balance between work and recovery

Sedentary lifestyle, physical activity, and metabolic regulation: the role of AMPK/mTOR in insulin sensitivity and muscle adaptation

A sedentary lifestyle and physical activity profoundly influence energy metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and cardiovascular health. Exercise promotes muscle and mitochondrial adaptations, involving mechanisms such as AMPK and GLUT4, which are fundamental in regulating glucose utilization. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore the biological differences between inactivity and movement, illustrating the contribution of physical exercise to metabolic prevention and the maintenance of health.

20

Smoking and the circuits that maintain addiction

Smoking, nicotine, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling: metabolic, oncological, and neurobiological implications of addiction

Tobacco smoking is one of the main modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular, respiratory, and oncological diseases. Substances present in smoke promote oxidative stress, inflammation, endothelial damage, and alterations in the cellular mechanisms involved in metabolic regulation. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi delve into the biological consequences of tobacco exposure, highlighting the molecular processes through which smoking compromises the body's health.

21

Social relationships and biological responses to loneliness

Sociality, isolation, and metabolic health: the role of chronic stress and REDD1/mTOR signaling in insulin resistance

Social relationships represent an important component of physical and mental health, with potential implications for stress regulation, neuroendocrine activity, and inflammatory processes. Social isolation, loneliness, and the quality of interpersonal relationships are associated with different health outcomes through complex biological and behavioral mechanisms. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore the link between sociality, psychophysical balance, and the body's functioning.

22

Chronic stress and metabolic regulation

Chronic stress and insulin resistance: the role of cortisol and REDD1/mTOR–AKT–AS160–GLUT4 signaling in metabolic homeostasis

Stress is a physiological response through which the body copes with situations perceived as challenging or threatening. When this activation becomes persistent, alterations in the autonomic nervous system, hormonal regulation, and metabolic and immune processes can emerge. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi delve into the differences between acute and chronic stress, exploring the connections between biological adaptation, inflammation, and health.

23

From nerve signal to hormonal response

Neurobiology of stress: the role of glutamate, orexin, norepinephrine, and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis in the regulation of cortisol

The neuroendocrine response to stress involves complex communication between the brain, the pituitary gland, and the adrenal glands. The hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, through CRH, ACTH, and cortisol, coordinates adaptations affecting metabolism, the immune system, and cardiovascular function. Orexin circuits also participate in regulating arousal and the response to stimuli. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore these mechanisms and the consequences of their persistent alteration in depth.

24

Micronutrients and nutritional adequacy

Micronutrient deficiencies and metabolic health: implications for insulin sensitivity, fetal development, and the prevention of chronic diseases

Vitamin deficiencies can compromise numerous biological processes, from energy production to immune regulation, and even the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Each vitamin performs specific functions, and insufficient intake can lead to different consequences depending on the severity of the deficiency and individual conditions. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore the importance of micronutrients, their bioavailability, and nutritional balance.

25

Vitamin D and the regulation of cellular functions

Vitamin D and immunometabolic regulation: the role of VDR, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and AMPK in cellular health

Vitamin D plays an essential role in calcium metabolism and bone health, but it also participates in the regulation of numerous cellular processes through the VDR receptor. Research is exploring its interactions with the immune system, inflammation, and insulin sensitivity, with clinical results that are not always consistent. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi delve into these mechanisms, distinguishing documented biological functions from the potential applications of supplementation.

26

Vitamin C: between tissue integrity and cellular response

Vitamin C and cellular homeostasis: role in the immune response, collagen synthesis, and HIF-1α regulation

Vitamin C is an essential micronutrient involved in collagen synthesis, antioxidant protection, and the normal functioning of the immune system. Through its role in cellular reactions, it contributes to defense against oxidative stress and the maintenance of tissue integrity. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore the properties of ascorbic acid, its relationship with inflammation, and the scientific evidence regarding dietary intake and supplementation.

27

Omega-3 and cell membrane composition

Omega-3 and immunometabolic regulation: the role of EPA, DHA, and the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and AMPK pathways in cellular homeostasis

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, play essential roles in the structure of cell membranes and the regulation of inflammation. Research is investigating their effects on lipid metabolism, cardiovascular health, immunity, and brain function, with benefits that depend on the clinical context. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore the biological mechanisms of omega-3 and the evidence regarding their supplementation.

28

Melatonin and the coordination of biological rhythms

Melatonin and cellular homeostasis: the role of the MT1 receptor, orexinergic circuits, and AMPK/mTORC1 signaling

Melatonin is a hormone produced primarily by the pineal gland, which is essential for regulating circadian rhythms and the sleep-wake cycle. Beyond its chronobiological function, research is investigating its antioxidant properties and potential interactions with inflammatory processes, energy metabolism, and mitochondrial function. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi delve into these mechanisms, distinguishing between established functions and applications that are still under investigation.

29

Magnesium and the functioning of metabolic reactions

Magnesium and metabolic homeostasis: role in insulin sensitivity and the regulation of AMPK/mTOR pathways and autophagy

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions, which are fundamental for energy production, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction. It also participates in glucose metabolism, blood pressure regulation, and the processes necessary for the activation of vitamin D. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore the role of magnesium in metabolic health and the scientific evidence regarding deficiency conditions and supplementation.

30

Cinnamon

Cinnamon and the regulation of glucose metabolism: the role of cinnamaldehyde, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and AMPK in cellular homeostasis

Cinnamon contains bioactive compounds, including cinnamaldehyde, which have been studied for their potential interactions with glucose metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory processes. Experimental research describes effects on the AMPK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways, while clinical studies show variable results regarding metabolic parameters. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease" ("La scelta di Vivere in Salute o in Malattia"), Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore these properties in depth, distinguishing molecular observations from the benefits actually documented in humans.

31

Turmeric

Curcumin and immunometabolic regulation: the role of NF-κB, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and AMPK in inflammation and cellular homeostasis

Turmeric contains curcumin, a polyphenol studied for its anti-inflammatory properties and potential interactions with energy metabolism. Experimental research highlights the involvement of AMPK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and GLUT4, while clinical studies explore its effects on glycemia, insulin resistance, and inflammation, with inconsistent results. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi delve into these mechanisms and the importance of bioavailability, dosage, and formulation.

32

Cloves

Eugenol and immunometabolic regulation: the role of NF-κB, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and AMPK in cellular protection

Cloves are a spice rich in bioactive compounds, including eugenol, which is studied for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Experimental research explores the potential effects of these molecules on oxidative stress, the regulation of inflammatory mediators, and cell survival processes. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi examine the biological potential of cloves, while considering the limitations of the available clinical evidence.

33

Oregano

Oregano and immunometabolic regulation: the role of carvacrol in the IRS1/AKT, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and AMPK pathways

Oregano contains bioactive molecules such as carvacrol and thymol, which are the subject of research for their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Preclinical studies are exploring the interactions of carvacrol with the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and AMPK pathways, which are involved in the regulation of cell growth and energy metabolism. In the book "La scelta di Vivere in Salute o in Malattia" (The Choice to Live in Health or Disease), Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi delve into these mechanisms and the biological potential of oregano, distinguishing experimental results from proven clinical applications.

34

Black pepper

Piperine and immunometabolic regulation: the role of the IRS-1/AKT, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and AMPK pathways in cellular homeostasis

Black pepper contains piperine, an alkaloid studied for its biological properties and its ability to modify the absorption and metabolism of certain substances. Experimental research analyzes its interactions with AMPK, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and the cellular processes involved in inflammation and glucose utilization. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease," Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi explore these mechanisms in depth, also considering bioavailability, safety, and potential drug interactions.

35

Ginger

Ginger and immunometabolic regulation: the role of gingerols and shogaols in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and AMPK pathways

Ginger contains bioactive compounds such as 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol, which are studied for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and metabolic properties. Experimental research describes potential interactions with AMPK, GLUT4, and PI3K/AKT/mTOR, which are involved in the regulation of glucose, inflammation, and cell survival. In the book "The Choice to Live in Health or Disease" ("La scelta di Vivere in Salute o in Malattia"), Dr. A. Colonnese and R. Panzironi delve into these mechanisms and the scientific evidence regarding ginger, distinguishing between preclinical observations and results obtained in humans.