FGF21 Levels and Liver Fat Content
Author Information
Author(s): Yan Hongmei, Xia Mingfeng, Chang Xinxia, Xu Qiong, Bian Hua, Zeng Mengsu, Rao Shengxiang, Yao Xiuzhong, Tu Yinfang, Jia Weiping, Gao Xin
Primary Institution: Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
Hypothesis
This study aimed to evaluate the quantitative correlation between serum FGF21 level and hepatic fat content.
Conclusion
Serum FGF21 was identified as a potential biomarker to reflect hepatic fat content in patients with mild or moderate NAFLD.
Supporting Evidence
- Serum FGF21 concentrations were positively correlated with hepatic fat content especially in subjects with mild/moderate hepatic steatosis.
- FGF21 was superior to traditional clinical markers like ALT in reflecting hepatic fat content.
- FGF21 levels increased progressively with hepatic fat content up to a certain point before declining.
Takeaway
This study found that a substance called FGF21 in the blood can help show how much fat is in the liver, especially in people who are not too sick.
Methodology
The study measured serum FGF21 levels using a chemiluminescence immunoassay and hepatic fat content using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy.
Limitations
The study's findings may not apply to the general population as participants had higher average hepatic fat content.
Participant Demographics
138 subjects aged 18 to 65 years, including 72 males and 66 females, with abnormal glucose metabolism and diagnosed fatty liver.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.009
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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