Excessive blood fat causes organ damage

Researchers in a new study have found the mechanisms through which high levels of blood lipids could lead to inflammation and organ damage.

Inflammation is both caused by and a risk factor for many conditions. These include obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular problems.

One of the greatest reasons for inflammation is infection.

When dangerous microorganisms, such as bacteria enters in the body, it unleashes an immune response. Inflammation is a key part of that response.

Sometimes, however, inflammation occurs for reasons other than infection, and it may persist abnormally, leading to different types of damage.

The study uncovered the mechanisms through which high blood fat can lead to inflammation — which, in turn, can affect other biological processes, potentially leading to organ and blood vessel damage.

The researchers conducted their study first in vitro, and then in mouse models, before studying the relevant mechanisms in human participants.

They focused their research on a key inflammasome complex: nod-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3).

This is a protein complex that plays a crucial role in activating the body’s immune response.