Interaction between serum neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin and visceral fat area on cardiovascular health in a cohort of community-based individuals

Abstract

BackgroundWe assessed the predictive values of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), fat distribution, and their interaction on the development of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in a community-based cohort of middle-aged and older individuals. MethodsThis prospective study involved 1349 adults (43.2% men) aged 50–80 y, without baseline cardiovascular diseases, from communities in 2013–2014. All participants were followed up for a mean of 7.6 y via phone calls and medical records. Serum NGAL concentrations were analyzed at baseline. Fat distribution, including subcutaneous fat area and visceral fat area (VFA), was assessed by magnetic resonance imaging. ResultsIn fully-adjusted Cox regression models, baseline high NGAL concentrations were related to an increased risk of MACE in women [HR 1.75, 95% CI 1.03–2.99], compared with low NGAL concentrations. After stratification by VFA concentrations, the observed association was more predominant in women with baseline low VFA (HR 1.24, 95% CI 1.11–1.38). Moreover, the association between NGAL and MACE was interacted by VFA, strengthening the association at low VFA concentrations (Pinteraction < 0.05). ConclusionsSerum NGAL determined at baseline predicts the development of MACE, and the association is modified by VFA in women.