10-hydroxy-cis-12-octadecenoic acid

10-hydroxy-cis-12-octadecenoic acid (HYA) is a gut microbial metabolite (postbiotic) derived from the saturation of linoleic acid by gut bacteria such as *Lactobacillus plantarum*. Developed by Noster Inc, HYA is being investigated as a therapeutic agent for metabolic disorders, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). HYA acts as a ligand for G protein-coupled receptors, specifically GPR40 (Free Fatty Acid Receptor 1) and GPR120 (Free Fatty Acid Receptor 4). Activation of these receptors by HYA has been shown to modulate insulin secretion, improve glucose tolerance, and exert anti-inflammatory effects. Preclinical evidence suggests that HYA can enhance intestinal barrier function and reduce hepatic fat accumulation. It is currently being evaluated in clinical trials in Japan to determine its efficacy in improving liver dysfunction, specifically by reducing elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in patients with NAFLD/MASLD.

Other names

10-hydroxy-12-octadecenoic acid10-HOA