13-POHSA

Branched fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs) are newly identified endogenous lipids regulated by fasting and high-fat feeding and associated with insulin sensitivity in mice. 13-POHSA is a FAHFA consisting of palmitoleic acid esterified to 13-hydroxy stearic acid. The levels of POHSA are significantly elevated in serum of glucose tolerant AG4OX mice, which overexpress the Glut4 glucose transporter specifically in adipose tissue. As other FAHFAs improve glucose tolerance, stimulate insulin secretion, and have anti-inflammatory effects, 13-POHSA may be a bioactive lipid with roles in metabolic syndrome and inflammation.