Incorporation of omega-3 into erythrocytes and its prevalence in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

• Grant number: 25/03417-7
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: May 01, 2025
• End date: April 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Nutrition - Nutrition Biochemistry
• Principal Investigator: Nágila Raquel Teixeira Damasceno
• Grantee: Isabelle Caroline Vieira Fernandes
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Saúde Pública (FSP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is currently considered a major public health issue. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver (NAFL) involves an imbalance in hepatic lipid metabolism, characterized by increased uptake of free fatty acids (FFAs), enhanced triglyceride synthesis, reduced export from the liver, or decreased oxidation for energy production. These factors lead to the excessive accumulation of lipids in hepatocytes. It is important to highlight the role of diet in this condition, as dietary patterns characterized by excessive intake of simple carbohydrates, such as fructose and sucrose, and/or saturated fats, along with low fiber intake, contribute to the progression of liver disease. On the other hand, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) play an important role in reducing the process of hepatic steatosis. In particular, omega-3 PUFAs seem to have a protective role in liver tissue. Objective: The aim of this proposal is to assess erythrocyte fatty acids and their association with the development of fatty liver disease in participants from the SHIP-Brazil cohort. Methodology: The study will be based on the baseline data of the SHIP-Brazil Cohort conducted in the city of Pomerode - Santa Catarina. This proposal is part of an international collaboration study involving two cohorts: SHIP-Germany and SHIP-Brazil. However, for this project, only data obtained from the SHIP-Brazil cohort will be used. This cohort is characterized as the largest population-based study in the country, involving German immigrants and their descendants. The cohort population was selected using simple random sampling, and the final sample consisted of 2,488 participants. Demographic and social data (age, sex, physical activity level, smoking, alcohol consumption, medication use, educational level, and family income) will be collected. Additionally, the participants' dietary intake will be assessed. Blood samples obtained after an 8-12 hour fasting period will be analyzed for biochemical parameters such as fatty acids by gas chromatography (GC), lipid parameters (total cholesterol, LDL-c, HDL-c, triglycerides, NEFA, Apo-AI, Apo-B), and liver enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT, and alkaline phosphatase). Lipid and hepatic profiles will be monitored using commercial kits with standardized automated methods. To assess the presence or absence of hepatic steatosis, an ultrasound examination will be performed. Data processing will be carried out using bioinformatics techniques applied to big data, with a significance level of p<0.05 for all methods. (AU)