LPS infusion suppresses serum FGF21 levels in healthy adult volunteers

CONTEXT During the inflammatory acute phase response, plasma glucose and serum triglycerides are increased in humans. Fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 21 has plasma glucose and lipid-reducing actions, but its role in the acute inflammatory response in human is unknown. OBJECTIVE To investigate circulating levels of FGF21 after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) infusion. DESIGN Two randomized, single-blinded, placebo-controlled crossover trials were used. SETTING The studies were performed at a university hospital clinical research center. PATIENTS AND INTERVENTIONS Study 1 (LPS bolus): Eight young, healthy, lean males were investigated two times: (1) after isotonic saline injection and (2) after LPS injection (bolus of 1 ng/kg). Each study day lasted 4 h. Study 2 (continuous LPS infusion): Eight, healthy males were investigated two times: (1) during continuously isotonic saline infusion and (2) during continuous LPS infusion (0.06 ng/kg/h). Each study day lasted 4 h. Circulating FGF21 levels were quantified every second hour by an immunoassay. RESULTS A LPS bolus resulted in a late suppression (t = 240 min) of serum FGF21 (P = 0.035). Continuous LPS infusion revealed no significant effects on FGF21 levels (P = 0.82). CONCLUSIONS Our studies show that a bolus of LPS results in decreased FGF21 levels 4 h from exposure.