Retinol binding protein 4, obesity, and insulin resistance in adolescents
Abstract: Obesity is a global
problem. Even in poor and developing countries, obesity has reached alarming
levels. In childhood, obesity may lead to insulin resistance. Retinol binding
protein (RBP4), secreted primarily by liver and adipose tissues, was recently
proposed as a link between obesity and insulin resistance. The role of RBP4 in
pediatric obesity and its relationship with insulin resistance have not been
well elucidated.
Objective To compare RBP4 levels in obese and lean adolescents and to
assess for a relationship between RBP4 levels and insulin resistance.
Method This cross-sectional study was conducted in three senior high
schools in Padang, West Sumatera, Indonesia. Subjects were adolescents aged
14-18 years, who were obese or normal weight (n=56). We measured subjects’ body
mass index (BMI) and serum RBP4 concentrations. Insulin resistance was assessed
using the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index.
Results Similar RBP4 levels were found in the obese and normoweight
groups (P>0.05). Higher RBP4 levels were found in the insulin resistant
compared to the non-insulin resistant group, but the difference was not
significant (P > 0.05).
Conclusion There is no significant difference in mean RBP4 levels in
obese adolescents compared to normoweight adolescents. Nor are mean RBP4 levels
significantly different between obese adolescents with and without insulin
resistance.
Keywords: obesity; retinol
binding protein 4; RBP4; insulin resistance, HOMA-IR
Author: Ronaldi Noor, Eka
Agustria Rini, Eti Yerizel
Journal Code: jpkedokterangg170066
