Regulation of a novel cytokine in low-grade inflammation of adipose tissue by fatty acids

Saturated fatty acids (e.g. palmitate) are increased in obesity. Palmitate has already been reported to be associated with the development of insulin resistance via Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and intracellular nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-KB) signalling. In contrast, the polyunsaturated fatty acid docosahexaneoic acid (DHA) with potential beneficial metabolic effects was found to inhibit TLR4-downstream target transforming-growth-factor beta-activated kinase 1 (TAK1) consequently activating NF-KB signalling. Wnt5a is a novel cytokine secreted by adipose tissue macrophages.…