FABP4 predicts atherogenic dyslipidemia development. The PREDIMED study

ObjectiveAtherogenic dyslipidemia (AD), characterized by high plasma triglycerides and low HDL particles, is considered one of the main effectors of vascular damage associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome (MS) and type 2 diabetes. Adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein (FABP4) plasma concentrations have been linked to metabolic alterations that are associated with adiposity. The aim of the present study was to prospectively analyze the predictive value of baseline FABP4 plasma concentrations for the development of AD.MethodsIn the frame of the PREDIMED study, a multicenter dietary interventional trial, we prospectively measured the baseline plasma FABP4 levels and AD incidence over a six-year follow-up period (median 4 [IQR, 3-5 years]) in 578 volunteers who visited their general practitioners because of their cardiovascular risk factors.ResultsDuring follow-up, 103 participants developed AD. Baseline plasma FABP4 levels were associated with new onset AD over the follow-up period (OR 1.03 [95% IC: 1.00-1.05], p = 0.020). This increased risk was observed in women but not in men. Among women, those in the highest tertile of FABP4 had a 2.54-fold increased relative risk of developing AD compared to the lowest tertile (HR 2.54 [95% CI, 1.31-4.93], p for trend = 0.008).ConclusionsElevated plasma FABP4 concentrations should be considered as a potential marker of metabolic derangement, which may predict the development of AD in women.

► FABP4 was considered an emerging factor of metabolic risk. ► Individuals with atherogenic dyslipidemia have higher FABP4 plasma concentrations. ► We observed that elevated FABP4 plasma concentrations preceded atherogenic dyslipidemia. ► FABP4 could be considered a risk marker of metabolic derangement. ► FABP4 may predict the development of atherogenic dyslipidemia.