Visceral adipose tissue visfatin in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Visfatin is a novel adipocytokine predominantly expressed and secreted by visceral adipose tissue. It is realized for its multiple functions of central importance in NAD biosynthesis, innate immunity and inflammation. Its phosphoribosyl transferase activity regulates cellular energetics and NAD dependent enzymes such as SIRTUINS. Although its expression in various tissues and circulating levels are documented, visceral visfatin levels in Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients have not been reported.

The aim of the present study was to assess visceral adipose tissue visfatin levels in NAFLD. Materials and methods. A total of 115 patients undergoing diagnostic laparoscopy were recruited in the study and categorized into two groups based on standard criteria for NAFLD. Visceral adipose tissue TNF-a, IL-6 and visfatin levels were measured by ELISA. Blood glucose, lipids, liver enzymes and non esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were estimated using standard procedures. Formalin fixed, Hematoxylene Eosin stained liver biopsy specimens were examined for the presence of steatosis and the degree of steatosis was ascertained as per Brunt.s classification.

The visceral visfatin level declined significantly (P < 0.001) in all groups of NAFLD as compared to non NAFLD group, while plasma NEFA level increased with progressive steatosis (P < 0.02). Significant increase in TNF a was observed in all groups of NAFLD, while IL-6 increased in NASH only.

A significant decline in visceral adipose tissue visfatin level was found to be associated with degree of steatosis in NAFLD patients.