Diabetes mellitus free fatty acid levels

Thyroid hormones enhance the lipolytic responses of fat cells to other hormones (e.g., catecholamines) and elevated plasma free fatty acid levels are seen in hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is an insulin resistant state, as manifested by depleted glycogen stores and enhanced gluconeogenesis this may precipitate diabetes mellitus or worsen glycemic control in diabetics on treatment. Conversely, insulin requirements are reduced in diabetics who become hypothyroid. 

The free fatty acids (FFA, nonesterified fatty acids, im-esterified fatty acids) arise in the plasma from hpolysis of triacylglycerol in adipose tissue or as a result of the action of hpoprotein hpase during uptake of plasma tri-acylglycerols into tissues. They are found in combination with albumin, a very effective solubilizer, in concentrations varying between 0.1 and 2.0 ieq/mL of plasma. Levels are low in the ftiUy fed condition and rise to 0.7-0.8 leq/mL in the starved state. In uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, the level may rise to as much as 2 Ieq/mL. 

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