Application of medium-chain fatty acids in metabolic diseases

Abstract Medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs), which are important dietary fats, can be rapidly metabolized to efficiently produce a high amount of energy owing to their unique transportation system. MCFAs have thus become high-value functional foods. MCFAs also have antibacterial and immunoregulatory effects, help to maintain intestinal health, and have shown benefits for disease prevention and treatment. Therefore, they have the potential to be used for a variety of purposes. We herein describe the metabolic pathways involving MCFAs and their main biological functions in the human body. In addition, the effects of MCFAs as adjuvant therapy for different diseases, such as obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome, sarcopenia, and malignancy are summarized, and the likely mechanisms of action are discussed. Finally, we describe possible future clinical applications of MCFAs in the field of metabolic diseases.