Palmitoleate reverses high fat-induced proinflammatory macrophage polarization via AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)

Abstract

Background: Elevated saturated fats during obesity activate proinflammatory pathways in macrophages, contributing to insulin resistance. Results: The monounsaturated fatty acid cis-palmitoleate antagonizes saturated fat-induced proinflammatory macrophage polarization through an AMPK-dependent mechanism. Conclusion: Palmitoleate is a lipid mediator that confers an anti-inflammatory macrophage phenotype. Significance: Understanding lipid-mediated macrophage polarization is critical to develop nutritional or cell-based strategies to combat insulin resistance.