High serum concentration of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 at early stage of obesity – preliminary study

Abstract

Background: Adipose tissue has been recognized as an endocrine organ of considerable complexity, able to secrete adipose-derived factors named adipokines. The secretion of adipokines depends greatly on the volume of body fat, which in turn significantly changes their activity towards a diabetogenic, proinflammatory, and atherogenic pattern. One of the discovered adipokines is dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4).<br>Objectives: The aim of this preliminary study was to establish an association between serum concentration of DPP4 and obesity at early stage.<br>Material and methods: A total of 32 obese adult volunteers and 40 lean controls were studied. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL (high-density lipoprotein), LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and glucose concentrations were assessed in serum/plasma samples by using commercial tests. Body mass index (BMI) and waist-hip ratio (WHR) were determined. Serum concentrations of DPP4, leptin, visfatin, CRP (C-reactive protein), and TNF-alpha (tumor necrosis factor alpha) were measured using commercial ELISA immunoassay tests.<br>Results: Serum concentrations of DPP4, leptin and visfatin were significantly higher in obese than in lean subjects. The concentration of DPP4 positively correlated with BMI and body mass. Serum CRP and TNF-alpha were increased in obese compared to non-obese, and had a positive correlation with BMI, WHR and body mass.<br>Conclusions: We showed that there is an association between the DPP4, leptin and visfatin concentration in serum and elevated body weight and BMI even at early stage of obesity (I stage of obesity). It suggest the importance of adipose tissue reduction to prevent rise of adipokines levels and further negative metabolic and inflammatory changes.