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Plasma interleukin‐18 levels in obese children: emphasis on weight reduction and insulin resistance
Author(s) -
Tso Tim K.,
Chang ChenKang,
Huang HuiYu,
Huang WenNan
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.21.5.a326-a
Subject(s) - insulin resistance , medicine , endocrinology , triglyceride , obesity , insulin , body mass index , childhood obesity , homeostasis , weight loss , cholesterol , overweight
Objective: Insulin resistance is increased in obese children. Interleukin (IL)‐18 is a novel proinflammatory cytokine with potential atherogenetic properties. The objective was to determine plasma level of IL‐18 in obese children and its association with weight reduction and insulin resistance. Method: Plasma IL‐18, body mass index (BMI), fasting glucose and insulin, lipid profile, and homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA IR) were determined in a total of fifty obese children before and after a 13‐week weight reduction program including physical activities and nutrition education. Twenty‐five age‐matched lean children served as controls. Results: Obese children had significantly higher BMI, fasting insulin, HOMA IR, triglyceride, and lower high density lipoprotein‐cholesterol than age‐matched lean children. Plasma IL‐18 levels in obese children were not only higher than in lean children but also positively associated with BMI, fasting insulin, and HOMA IR. In addition, obese children significantly decreased plasma IL‐18 levels during weight reduction. Moreover, a significant increase in plasma IL‐18 levels was observed in obese children with HOMA IR in the top tertile. Conclusion: The elevation of plasma IL‐18 levels in obese children is associated with insulin resistance. Weight reduction program plays a significant role in decreasing plasma IL‐18 levels in obese children.