Serum Fatty Acid Profiles and Neurofilament Light Chain Levels in the General Population.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have demonstrated associations between fatty acids and neurological disorders. However, no studies have examined the relationship between serum fatty acid levels and serum neurofilament light chain (NfL), a biomarker of neurological disorders. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the intricate relationship between 30 serum fatty acids and serum NfL levels in a nationally representative sample of United States adults, using data from the 2013-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. METHODS: Using a cross-sectional analysis, multivariable linear regression models were used to explore the associations between 30 serum fatty acids and serum NfL levels. This analysis involved adjustment for potential confounding variables, including age, sex, race, body mass index (BMI), smoking status, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes, to clarify the association between serum fatty acids and serum NfL levels. RESULTS: The analysis revealed that certain fatty acids exhibited distinct associations with serum NfL levels. Notably, docosanoic acid (220) and tricosanoic acid (C230) were found to be inversely associated with serum NfL levels (ß = -0.280, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.525, -0.035; ß = -0.292, 95% CI -0.511, -0.072). Conversely, palmitoleic acid (161n-7) demonstrated a positive association with serum NfL levels (ß = 0.125, 95% CI 0.027, 0.222). Notably, these associations remained significant even after adjustment for potential confounders. CONCLUSIONS: Individuals with high relative concentrations of certain SFA exhibited decreased serum NfL, whereas those with high relative concentrations of certain monounsaturated fatty acids showed increased serum NfL. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the potential impact of serum fatty acids on NfL levels, shedding light on novel avenues for further investigation and potential interventions in the context of neurological health.