H-mrs Links Adipose Tissue Fat Composition to Liver Fat Content in Men with Metabolic Syndrome

Introduction The recent epidemic rise in metabolic syndrome/insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes are considered to be a result of a sedentary lifestyle combined with a high caloric diet. Earlier reports have consistently shown a link between a high fat intake, especially saturated fat, and insulin resistance [1]. More recently, the intake of simple carbohydrates, especially fructose, have been suggested to result in insulin resistance [2]. Liver fat content in subjects with metabolic syndrome closely correlates with insulin resistance [3], and is readily measured by H-MRS [4]. Adipose tissue is the primary storage site for triglycerdies (fat), and much reasearch has focused on adipose tissue fatty acid composition as a marker of dietary fat composition. Adipose tissue is also implicated in the development of insulin resistance, with impared suppression of lipolysis suggested to result in accumulation of fat in the liver [3]. A non-invasive method for determining adipose tissue fat composition could provide new insights into the pathogenesis of insulin resistance. The objetive of this study was to use H-MRS to measure liver fat content and adipose tissue fat composition in male subjects with metabolic syndrome.