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Body Composition and Genetic Lipodystrophy Risk Score Associate With Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Liver
Vincent L Chen1,2, Andrew P Wright1,3, Brian Halligan1
1Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Medicine University of Michigan Health System Ann Arbor MI.
Body fat distribution and muscle mass influence nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) risk. Peripheral fat and muscle may protect against NAFLD and liver fibrosis.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic health
- Genetics
- Liver disease
Background:
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects individuals irrespective of obesity.
- Body composition may play a role in NAFLD development.
- Genetic factors may contribute to NAFLD susceptibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between body composition parameters and NAFLD.
- To identify genetic factors linked to NAFLD and body composition.
- To explore the protective role of peripheral fat and muscle mass.
Main Methods:
- Two cohorts (Framingham Heart Study, Michigan Genomics Initiative) totaling 21,488 participants.
- Computed tomography and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry for body composition analysis.
- Genotyping and multivariable regression analyses to assess associations.
Main Results:
- Increased central body fat correlated with higher hepatic steatosis.
- Increased lower extremity fat was associated with decreased hepatic steatosis.
- Higher appendicular lean mass showed a protective effect in men.
- A lipodystrophy polygenic risk score linked to increased NAFLD and liver fibrosis.
Conclusions:
- Body fat distribution and lean mass are significant factors in NAFLD.
- Peripheral fat and muscle may offer protection against NAFLD and liver fibrosis.
- Genetic predisposition, like lipodystrophy risk, impacts NAFLD development.
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