Abundance and Distribution of Lipids and Proteins in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Relative Abundance and Spatial Distribution of Lipids and Proteins in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common type of liver disease in the United States. The incidence of NAFLD is very similar to that of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and the metabolic syndrome. The investigators hypothesize that there may be a relationship between over-nutrition, decreased physical activity and the development of fatty liver. The purpose of this study is to identify the types of fats and proteins, and the quantity of each, that are associated with increased severity of NAFLD.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 18-65 year of age
• Undergoing elective abdominal or bariatric surgery
• May have normal or elevated ALT/AST levels

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of viral hepatitis
• Significant alcohol use
• Intercurrent infections
• Use of any thiazolidinediones