Decreased expression of leptin receptors in non obese insulin resistant hepatitis C patients with high serum leptin level

Abstract

Hepatitis C is a chronic and pestilent disease showing a strong association with diabetes. The mechanisms responsible for the pathogenesis of diabetes in association with hepatitis C remains to be identified. Leptin, a multifunctional cytokine secreted from adipocytes has been found to have high level in hepatitis C virus (HCV) infected patients. Leptin actions after remaining a mystery for many years are now finally beginning to yield some of its molecular secrets. Throughout this decade powerful new molecular approaches have revolutionized and broadened our molecular insight regarding the role of leptin in different diseases. The present study was designed to explore and substantiate the role of leptin in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes in hepatitis C infected patients. Serum leptin levels and insulin resistance in diagnosed cases of hepatitis C were measured and the expression of leptin and leptin receptors in peripheral blood mononuclear cells was ascertained by mRNA quantification. We discovered high serum leptin levels with decreased expression of leptin receptors in insulin resistant as compared with non insulin resistant HCV patients and normal individuals. This association of leptin resistance with insulin resistance in HCV patients through leptin receptor down regulation points towards a novel steps in mechanism implicated in disease pathogenesis which can lead to more targeted approach to therapy.