Role of bioactive fatty acids in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Eva Juárez-Hernández, Norberto C Chávez-Tapia, Misael Uribe, Varenka J Barbero-Becerra, Eva Juárez-Hernández, Norberto C Chávez-Tapia, Misael Uribe, Varenka J Barbero-Becerra

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by fat deposition in hepatocytes, and a strong association with nutritional factors. Dietary fatty acids are classified according to their biochemical properties, which confer their bioactive roles. Monounsaturated fatty acids have a dual role in various human and murine models. In contrast, polyunsaturated fatty acids exhibit antiobesity, anti steatosic and anti-inflammatory effects. The combination of these forms of fatty acids-according to dietary type, daily intake and the proportion of n-6 to n-3 fats-can compromise hepatic lipid metabolism. A chemosensory rather than a nutritional role makes bioactive fatty acids possible biomarkers for NAFLD. Bioactive fatty acids provide health benefits through modification of fatty acid composition and modulating the activity of liver cells during liver fibrosis. More and better evidence is necessary to elucidate the role of bioactive fatty acids in nutritional and clinical treatment strategies for patients with NAFLD.

Keywords: Fatty acids; Liver diseases; Nutrition; Risk factors.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Bioactive fatty acid patterns according to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) inhibtion and promotion. Key: The color bars tapering toward either side of the outcome line indicate a decline in activity of the NAFLD stage (orange) according to each fatty acid. The bioactive fatty acids panel includes SCFAs, MCFAs, and LCFAs. Key: NAFLD, nonalcoholic liver disease; SCFA, short-chain fatty acid; MCFA, medium-chain fatty acid; LCFA, long-chain fatty acid
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Bioactive fatty acids function in the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Key: describing the different types of bioactive fatty acids in relation to their sources, cell recognition mechanisms and biological effects
Fig. 3
Fig. 3
Interaction between bioactive fatty acids and NAFLD development. Key: MCR, mitochondrial respiratory chain; SCFAs, short-chain fatty acid; MCFAs, medium-chain fatty acid; PUFAs, polyunsaturated fatty acid

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