Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic disease worldwide, affecting approximately 25% of the population, and is an independent risk factor for cardiac mortality. The pathophysiology and risk factors for the development of NAFLD in non-obese individuals are not fully understood, but appear to be closely related to insulin resistance, atherogenic dyslipidemia, and combination changes, with some genetic polymorphisms predisposing individuals. ANGPTL8 (also known as RIFL, liposin, and betatrophin) is an insulin-regulated cytokine and inhibitor of lipoprotein lipase (LPL) that is mainly expressed by the liver and adipose tissue. Its expression and secretion are influenced by the nutritional or metabolic state of the body and can regulate glucose and lipid metabolism to different degrees. In this research, we investigate the serum level of ANGPTL8 and lipid profile in NAFLD patients.

This case control study included 227control, 227 NAFLD patients who were diagnosed by standard criteria. serum levels of Angptl8 were elevated using ELISA kits. Triglyceride (TG), cholesterol, low density lipoproteins(LDL) and high density lipoproteins( HDL) were assessed by enzymatic methods.

Our results demonstrated serum level of Angptl8 in NAFLD patients significantly higher than healthy individuals and related to high levels of LDL and TG in serum of patients.

In conclusion, this study for the first time revealed that the circulating ANGPTL8 levels play the main role in NAFLD patients and are associated with TG and cholesterol.