Determination of Free Fatty Acids Level: Capabilities of the Respons Analyzer

Non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs, or free fatty acids) are carboxylic acids with carbon chains of varying length and degree of saturation. Their levels in the blood depend on diet, physical activity, and tend to increase with age. NEFAs have been shown to play a key role in glucose metabolism disorders [1].

 

In particular, they suppress insulin signaling in tissues, especially in skeletal muscles, where insulin regulates glucose uptake [1]. Moreover, NEFAs are directly associated with endothelial dysfunction and exert toxic effects on certain types of brain cells. As a result, they not only affect carbohydrate metabolism but may also negatively influence tissue perfusion and the function of the neuromuscular system [2].

 

Elevated levels of NEFAs in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing several of the most common chronic diseases in older adults, including heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and others [2, 3]. Furthermore, a link has been established between elevated NEFA levels and the development of geriatric syndrome, which manifests as reduced mobility, disability, and increased mortality among the elderly [2].

 

Serum NEFA testing may be useful in patients of different ages for the diagnosis of insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, and other metabolic disorders [4].

 

Overall, the determination of NEFA levels is an important metabolic marker that reflects lipolytic activity and the state of energy metabolism in the body. NEFAs are also involved in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, inflammatory processes, and hormonal disorders. In many countries, this parameter is actively used in clinical practice—particularly as part of a comprehensive metabolic profile assessment, dietary therapy planning, or for monitoring the effectiveness of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation.

 

In Ukraine, NEFA level testing is currently rarely performed. Therefore, including this analysis in your laboratory’s service portfolio could become a competitive advantage and fill an important gap in the diagnosis of metabolic and systemic disorders.

 

Offering this test may be valuable for endocrinologists, cardiologists, dietitians, and general practitioners managing patients with chronic metabolic conditions. At the same time, it opens up opportunities for research projects, clinical monitoring, and the development of personalized recommendations in the field of preventive medicine.

 

NEFA level testing is particularly relevant for the following patient groups:

• Elderly individuals;

• Patients with suspected metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, impaired glucose tolerance, or type 2 diabetes;

• Patients with cardiovascular diseases;

• Patients with dietary-related issues (e.g., dry skin, brittle nails, hair loss, etc.);

• Patients with hormonal disorders.

 

This test is especially suitable for laboratories that:

• Conduct gerontology research;

• Are private labs offering a wide range of diagnostics;

• Specialize in endocrinology;

• Focus on cardiovascular diagnostics;

• Are affiliated with healthcare institutions working with athletes.

 

Thanks to the Respons line of biochemistry analyzers from the trusted German manufacturer DiaSys, you can easily integrate NEFA testing into your diagnostic services. The Respons product range offers flexible solutions tailored to laboratories of all sizes—from small facilities to multidisciplinary medical centers—with varying sample throughputs.

 

References:

1. Iozzo P., Lautamaki R., Geisler F., et al. Non-esterified fatty acids impair insulin-mediated glucose uptake and disposition in the liver. Diabetologia. 2004;47(7):1149–1156. doi: 10.1007/s00125-004-1443-2.

2. Ahiawodzi P., Djousse L., Joachim H., et al. Non-Esterified Fatty Acids and Risks of Frailty, Disability, and Mobility Limitation in Older Adults: the Cardiovascular Health Study. J Am Geriatr Soc. 68(12): 2890–2897. doi:10.1111/jgs.16793.

3. Khawaja O., Bartz T. M., Ix J. H., et al Plasma free fatty acids and risk of atrial fibrillation (from the cardiovascular health study). Am J Cardiol. 2012;110(2):212–216. doi: 10.1016/j.amjcard.2012.03.010 

4. Ahiawodzi P., Buzkova P., Lichtenstein A. H., et al. The Associations of Individual and Subclasses of Nonesterified Fatty Acids With Disability, and Mobility Limitation in Older Adults: The Cardiovascular Health Study. J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2022;78(7):1155–1163. doi: 10.1093/gerona/glac206