Exploring the Role of Fatty Acid Esters of Hydroxy Fatty Acids in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in Morbid Obese Women

Abstract

Background Fatty Acid Esters of Hydroxy Fatty Acids (FAHFAs) present potential beneficial effects that could offer valuable insights into metabolic and inflammatory diseases. However, few FAHFAs have been studied and their role is unclear. Aims To assess FAHFA levels in individuals with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) associated with morbid obesity (MO) to explore the potential significance of FAHFAs in these conditions. Methods Using ultra-precise liquid chromatography, FAHFA serum levels were measured in 219 women, including 53 with normal weight (NW) and 166 with MO. The MO group was classified by histological diagnosis in 35 normal liver (NL), 38 simple steatosis (SS) and 93 metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Results 32 FAHFA isoforms from 11 families were identified. The most of FAHFAs presented low levels in MO, but tLAHOAs, LAHOA-1 and OAHOA-1 were increased. In MASLD, elevated tLAHPO, LAHPO-2, PAHLA-3 and PAHLA-4 levels were observed. In MASH, increased POHLA-1, tLAHPOs, LAHPO-2 and LAHLA-3, and decreased PAHSA-1, tOAHOAs, OAHSA-2 and OAHSA-3 levels were reported. Conclusion The study reveals novel insights into FAHFAs in a cohort of MO women with MASLD. In MASLD, we reported only increased levels of certain FAHFAs. In MASH, we found a different profile that could be characteristic.