Effect of a Moderate Weight Loss on Serum Fetuin-A and Markers of Inflammation in Individuals With Obesity

Abstract

ObjectivesElevated fetuin-A (Fet-A) has been shown to be a risk factor for several metabolic diseases and understanding the effects of moderate weight loss on changes in Fet-A and other inflammatory markers could allow for lifestyle intervention strategies. The association of inflammatory markers and Fet-A with incremental body weight loss is unknown. The objective of the study was to evaluate the association of inflammatory markers, including TNF-alpha (TNF-α), adiponectin, and C-reactive protein (CRP), Fet-A, and it’s phosphorylated form, pFet-A, with incremental body weight loss. MethodsSixteen men achieved a targeted weight loss of 8% to 10% of initial body weight. In this study, we analyzed changes in serum TNF-α, adiponectin, and CRP inflammatory cytokines to changes in serum serum-Fet-A and pFet-A. We also examined the relationship of changes in cytokine profile to alterations in anthropometrics and other metabolic indices. All statistical analyses were performed using GraphPad Prism version 8.0. ResultsA moderate body weight loss of 8% to 10%, significantly decreased serum CRP, but did not affect TNF-α or adiponectin concentrations in individuals with obesity. Serum CRP started to decrease with 4% to 6% body weight loss, demonstrating a mean change in serum CRP concentrations of – 0.15 mg/L and – 0.10 mg/L, for 4%-6% and 8%-10% body weight loss, respectively, for each 1 kg of body weight loss. Weight-loss induced change in serum CRP concentrations were not significantly associated with a decrease in serum Fet-A or pFet-A, although a trend was observed for change in serum pFet-A (r = 0.44, P = 0.09). ConclusionsA moderate weight loss improved serum inflammatory marker C-reactive protein but did not affect TNF-α or adiponectin concentrations in individuals with obesity. These changes were not significantly associated with a decrease in serum pFet-A although a trend was observed. Funding SourcesThis work was supported by the American Diabetes Association (ADA 7–04-JF-36); the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station (ALA080–052).