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Qualitative Properties of Circulating Fatty Acids Are Associated With MASLD: A Cross-Sectional Study From the NHANES
Stefano Ciardullo1,2, Michela Vergani1,2, Mariangela Rizzo1,2
1Department of Medicine and Rehabilitation, Policlinico di Monza, Monza, Italy.
Summary
Specific omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are linked to reduced risk of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Alpha-linolenic acid shows particular promise in preventing liver fibrosis.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional biochemistry
- Hepatology
- Metabolic disease research
Background:
- The relationship between circulating fatty acids (FA) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is not well understood.
- Investigating specific FA subtypes and their association with MASLD and liver fibrosis is crucial for understanding metabolic health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the association between specific circulating fatty acid subtypes and MASLD in a general population.
- To determine the link between FA composition and liver fibrosis risk.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of a representative US general population sample.
- Serum FA levels measured via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, categorized into saturated, monounsaturated, ω-6 PUFA, and ω-3 PUFA.
- MASLD and fibrosis assessed using fatty liver index (FLI) and FIB-4 scores, respectively; logistic regression analysis performed.
Main Results:
- Higher concentrations of all FAs correlated with increased insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and liver steatosis (FLI).
- Linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) were inversely associated with insulin resistance and liver steatosis.
- Alpha-linolenic acid showed a significant inverse association with liver fibrosis risk (OR: 0.48).
Conclusions:
- Circulating ω-3 PUFA are associated with a lower risk of liver steatosis.
- Alpha-linolenic acid demonstrates a protective effect against liver fibrosis.
- Nutritional strategies targeting FA levels may offer a clinical approach for managing liver health.
