Which factor accelerates the Dixon Cycle by increasing fatty acids release and liver VLDL secretion?

• A. Increased fat storage in adipose tissue
• B. Decreased lipolysis in adipose tissue
• C. Increased release of fatty acids from adipose tissue
• D. Decreased hepatic TAG synthesis

Answer: (C)

The Dixon Cycle relies on fatty acids being released from adipose tissue, traveling to the liver, and then being re-esterified into triglycerides to be packed into VLDL and sent back into circulation. When fatty acids are released more from adipose tissue, the liver receives more substrate to create triglycerides and assemble VLDL, speeding up the cycle. More FA release means more fatty acids shuttle through the loop, increasing VLDL secretion and continuing the cycle.

Storing more fat in adipose tissue would limit the amount of fatty acids released, decreasing the cycle’s fuel. Less lipolysis reduces the fatty acid supply to the liver, slowing the process. Decreasing hepatic triglyceride synthesis directly limits VLDL production, also slowing the cycle.