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A decrease in fasting FGF19 levels is associated with the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in obese
Malgorzata Wojcik1, Dominika Janus, Katarzyna Dolezal-Oltarzewska
1Pediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology Department, Chair of Pediatrics, Jagiellonian University, Collegium Medicum, Wielicka 265 str. 30-663 Krakow, Poland. wojcik.gosia@gmail.com
Journal of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism : JPEM
|January 19, 2013
Summary
Lower levels of fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) are linked to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in obese adolescents. This suggests that reduced FGF19 may be a risk factor for NAFLD and metabolic syndrome in this population.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
Background:
- Fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) is an intestinal hormone regulating glucose and lipid metabolism.
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing concern in obese adolescents.
- The role of FGF19 in NAFLD development in adolescents requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) levels and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in obese adolescents.
- To explore the relationship between FGF19, insulin resistance, and metabolic parameters in this cohort.
Main Methods:
- Study included 23 obese adolescents with NAFLD and 34 obese controls.
- NAFLD was diagnosed based on elevated alanine aminotransferase and ultrasound-confirmed liver steatosis.
- Serum FGF19 levels were measured, and insulin resistance was assessed using HOMA.
Main Results:
- Mean fasting FGF19 levels were significantly lower in adolescents with NAFLD compared to controls (142.2 vs. 206 pg/mL, p=0.04).
- Fasting FGF19 levels were decreased in insulin-resistant individuals (155.0 vs. 221.0 pg/mL, p=0.05).
- An inverse correlation was observed between FGF19 levels and alanine aminotransferase (R=-0.3, p<0.05) and triglycerides (R=-0.27, p<0.05).
Conclusions:
- Decreased fasting FGF19 is associated with NAFLD development in obese adolescents.
- Low FGF19 may represent a novel risk factor for NAFLD and metabolic syndrome in adolescents.
- Further research is warranted to explore the therapeutic potential of exogenous FGF19 administration.
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