Effect of a Moderate Weight Loss on Serum Fetuin-A and Markers of Inflammation in Individuals With Obesity
Abstract Objectives Elevated 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. Methods Sixteen 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. Results A 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). Conclusions A 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 Sources This work was supported by the American Diabetes Association (ADA 7–04-JF-36); the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station (ALA080–052).