Lipid Metabolism in Obese Subjects Undergoing Bariatric Surgery

Characterization of Physiological Mechanisms Involved in the Regulation of Eating Behavior for the Identification of Innovative Nutritional Strategies for Obese Patients Before and After Bariatric Surgery

The aim of the study is to evaluate modifications in the metabolism of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and biosynthesis of the lipid mediators N-acylethanolamines (NAE), both known to induce and be induced by the nuclear peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-α, which may also explain the well-established improved lipid and energy metabolism after bariatric surgery. The study is focused on understanding the weight loss mechanisms in order to develop targeted dietary protocols.

The study involves a careful preliminary medical history of the patients, with physical examination, anthropometric parameters measurements and blood sampling for blood chemistry routine and evaluation of any adverse events to assess suitability for the study. The evening before bariatric surgery, one month and six months after bariatric surgery anthropometric parameters measurements, blood sampling for blood chemistry routine, inflammatory and lipid-metabolomic profile, and evaluation of any adverse events are performed. For the study samples are stored identified by a code to be analyzed anonymously. Study interruption criteria are: development of allergic reactions, ketonemia> 1.5 mmol/L, acute gout

Inclusion Criteria:

• subjects with pathological obesity suitable for bariatric surgery
• Body Mass Index (BMI) range 35-59

Exclusion Criteria:

• established diagnoses of a major disease (e.g., diabetes or kidney disease)
• pregnancy or breastfeeding,
• food allergies,
• use of drugs that could affect lipid metabolism