Fatty acid-binding protein 4: a key regulator of ketoacidosis in new-onset type 1 diabetes

Aims/hypothesis Fatty acid-binding protein 4 (FABP4) is an adipokine with a key regulatory role in glucose and lipid metabolism. We prospectively evaluated the role of FABP4 in the pathophysiology of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) in new-onset type 1 diabetes. Methods Clinical and laboratory data were prospectively collected from consecutive children presenting with new-onset type 1 diabetes. In addition to blood chemistry and gases, insulin, C-peptide, serum FABP4 and NEFA were collected upon presentation and 48 h after initiation of insulin treatment. In a mouse model of type 1 diabetes, glucose, insulin, β-hydroxybutyrate and weight were compared between FABP4 knockout ( Fabp4 −/− ) and wild-type (WT) mice. Results Included were 33 children (mean age 9.3 ± 3.5 years, 52% male), of whom 14 (42%) presented with DKA. FABP4 levels were higher in the DKA group compared with the non-DKA group (median [IQR] 10.1 [7.9–14.2] ng/ml vs 6.3 [3.9–7] ng/ml, respectively; p = 0.005). The FABP4 level was positively correlated with HbA 1c at presentation and inversely correlated with venous blood pH and bicarbonate levels ( p