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Shi-jiao Yang, Xin-kai Yu, Qun Zuo, Branched- Chain Fatty Acids and Obesity: A Narrative Review, Nutrition Reviews, 2025;, nuaf022, https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuaf022
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Abstract
Branched- chain fatty acids (BCFAs) are a category of saturated fatty acids that are commonly present in various organisms and play a crucial role in a variety of metabolic reactions, including anticancer, lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective actions. Currently, there is growing interest in the relationship between BCFAs and obesity. Branched- chain fatty acids regulate the gene expression of related enzymes by activating PPARα and sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c, thereby reducing triglyceride synthesis in the body. Additionally, BCFAs reduce inflammation by decreasing the expression of pro-inflammatory factors in obesity such as cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin-6, and lipoxygenase-15 genes. Branched- chain fatty acids can also expedite the conversion of branched chain amino acids to BCFAs to regulate obesity-induced insulin resistance. In this article we provide a comprehensive review of research progress on how BCFAs affect obesity from the perspectives of lipid metabolism, inflammation, and insulin resistance.