Branched fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs) are newly identified endogenous lipids regulated by fasting and high-fat feeding and associated with insulin sensitivity. Structurally, these esters are comprised of a C-16 or C-18 fatty acid (e.g., palmitoleic, palmitic, oleic, or stearic acid) linked to either a C-16 or C-18 hydroxy substituent. 12-OAHSA is a FAHFA in which oleic acid is esterified at the 12th carbon of hydroxy stearic acid. Among the FAHFA family members, OAHSAs are the most abundantly expressed in the serum of glucose tolerant AG4OX mice, which overexpress the Glut4 glucose transporter specifically in adipose tissue.
