Serum vaspin levels in type 2 diabetic women in relation to microvascular complications

Serum Vitamin D and Vaspin Levels Among Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction and Their Association with Risk Factors

Purpose

The current study investigated and compared serum levels of vitamin D (VD) and vaspin in AMI patients and healthy subjects and correlated these biomarkers with other biochemical risk factors for AMI.

Patients and Methods

The research was carried out at King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH) in Jeddah. Blood samples and additional information were gathered from 110 admitted AMI patients in the Intensive Coronary Care Unit (ICCU) (ages 40-65 years) and 50 adult, healthy volunteers whose BMI and age were similar to those of the patients.

Results

AMI patients had significantly lower vaspin (p < 0.001) and VD levels (p < 0.001) than the control group. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), hemoglobin A1C (HbA1c), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels were shown to be significantly different between AMI patients and controls. Among the AMI patients, 15 (13.6%) had deficient serum VD levels (≤20 ng/mL), 60 (54.5%) had insufficient levels (>20 - <30 ng/mL), and 35 (31.8%) had sufficient levels (≥30 ng/mL). In healthy subjects, VD levels were deficient in 4(8%), insufficient in 13 (26%), and sufficient in 33 (66%). VD insufficiency was more prevalent in AMI patients compared to the healthy group (54.5% vs 26%; p < 0.001). In AMI patients, serum vaspin was found to be related to age and HbA1c in the control group. VD did not show a significant correlation with any variable in AMI patients and healthy subjects. Serum vaspin (p = 0.89) and VD levels (p = 0.29) did not differ significantly between female and male control groups.

Conclusion

Compared to the healthy group, AMI patients showed significantly lower vaspin and VD levels. Additionally, AMI patients had a higher prevalence of VD deficiency and insufficiency, suggesting its possible role in the occurrence of AMI.

Could Vaspin Be a Potential Diagnostic Marker in Endometrial Cancer?

Obesity and being overweight are risk factors for many types of cancer, including endometrial cancer. Adipose tissue is thought to be an endocrine organ that produces various hormones, including one known as vaspin. Insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes are all associated with higher vaspin levels. A total of 127 patients divided into study (endometrial cancer) and control groups (non-cancerous) participated in this research. Serum vaspin levels were measured for all patients. The analysis was performed while taking into account grading and staging. In order to assess the usefulness of the tested protein as a new diagnostic marker, we used the plotting of a curve (ROC) and the calculation of the AUC curve to characterize the sensitivity and specificity of the parameters tested. We concluded that there were significantly lower vaspin levels in patients with endometrial cancer compared to patients with benign endometrial lesions. Vaspin may be a useful diagnostic marker in separating benign lesions from endometrial cancer.

Associations of dietary fats intake and adipokines levels in obese women

AIM

RBP4, Vaspin and omentin-1 are adipokines, which play an important role in the development of obesity-related complications. The main aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different kinds of fat intake on adipokine levels in obese women.

METHODS

A total of 272 obese women (BMI ≥ 30) were included in the current cross-sectional study, according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Body composition was measured using a body composition analyzer. For the measurement of retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4), vaspin and omentin-1 serum concentrations, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method was used. Dietary intake was assessed using a 3-day 24-h dietary recall.

RESULTS

Statistically significant differences were found between polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFAs) and linoleic acid intake and vaspin and omentin-1 levels. In addition, there were found statistically significant relationships between cholesterol, monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFAs) and total fat intakes with omentin-1 levels. Also, RBP4 and vaspin levels were different significant with eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) intake. Moreover, the results revealed that there were statistically significant differences between RBP4 levels and α-linolenic acid and oleic acid intake.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed that by examining RBP4, vaspin and omentin-1 as adipokines, a novel link between fat intakes and adipokine levels was found.

Serum vaspin levels are positively associated with diabetic retinopathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Aims/Introduction

Vaspin is linked to obesity and its metabolic abnormalities. However, the role of vaspin serum levels in diabetic retinopathy (DR) is unknown. In the present study, we investigated the association between serum levels of vaspin and both DR and vision‐threatening DR.

Materials and Methods

This was a cross‐sectional single‐center observational study from December 2018 to September 2019. We evaluated circulating serum levels of vaspin in 372 participants with type 2 diabetes. DR was screened through detailed ocular examination. DR patients were also divided two groups: vision‐threatening DR and non‐vision‐threatening DR. The relationship between vaspin and DR was investigated by univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, and the results are shown as odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

The vaspin serum levels of 372 patients were obtained, with a median value of 1.50 ng/mL (interquartile range 0.94–2.18 ng/mL). The median age of those patients was 53 years (interquartile range 44–62 years), and 44.4% were women. Patients with DR and VDTR had significantly increased vaspin serum levels (P < 0.001 andP < 0.001). A multivariable regression model found that patients with high levels of vaspin were approximately 1.85‐fold (odds ratio for per unit increase 1.85, 95% confidence interval 1.43–2.55; P < 0.001) more likely to experience DR, and 3.76‐fold (odds ratio for per unit increase 3.76, 95% confidence interval 2.05–6.55; P < 0.001) more likely to experience VTDR. The predictive value of vaspin was stronger in women than in men.

Conclusion

Higher vaspin serum levels were associated with an increased risk of DR and VDTR in patients with type 2 diabetes, which showed that vaspin is an important indicator factor for DR.

Adipokines and Obesity. Potential Link to Metabolic Disorders and Chronic Complications

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized obesity as one of the top ten threats to human health. It is estimated that the number of obese and overweight people worldwide exceeds the number of those who are undernourished. Obesity is not only a state of abnormally increased adipose tissue in the body, but also of increased release of biologically active adipokines. Adipokines released into the circulating blood, due to their specific receptors on the surface of target cells, act as classic hormones affecting the metabolism of tissues and organs. What is more, adipokines and cytokines may decrease the insulin sensitivity of tissues and induce inflammation and development of chronic complications. Certainly, it can be stated that in an era of a global obesity pandemic, adipokines may gain more and more importance as regards their use in the diagnostic evaluation and treatment of diseases. An extensive search for materials on the role of white, brown and perivascular fatty tissue and obesity-related metabolic and chronic complications was conducted online using PubMed, the Cochrane database and Embase.

Plasma vaspin is an effective biomarker for evaluation of future cardiovascular events in patients with chest pain: a 5-year retrospective observational study

Background

Our previous study showed that visceral adipose tissue-derived serpin (vaspin) was an independent predictor of coronary artery disease (CAD). Further, plasma vaspin levels in patients with unstable angina pectoris were lower than those in patients with stable angina pectoris. In this study, we investigated the prognostic relevance of plasma vaspin levels in patients with CAD and non-CAD.

Methods

It was a retrospective observational study. A total of 197 patients with chest pain were enrolled, of which 88 patients with CAD and 109 patients with non-CAD were confirmed by angiography. Plasma vaspin levels and clinical parameters were measured at baseline. Incidence of major adverse cardiac event (MACE) was determined on follow-up.

Results

One hundred eighty-nine patients were successfully followed up for 5 years, of which 63 patients experienced MACEs. Patients with low vaspin levels (<0.385 ng/mL) experienced a higher incidence of MACE as compared to patients with high vaspin levels (>0.385 ng/mL) (42.55% vs. 24.21%, respectively; P=0.007). In both CAD and non-CAD groups, patients with high vaspin levels showed improvement in left ventricular ejection fraction. Kaplan Meier survival curves showed that patients with low vaspin levels had an obviously higher timing of incidence of MACE in the whole population (P=0.006) and in the non-CAD subgroup (P=0.009); however, the trend was not significant in the CAD subgroup. On multivariate analyses, plasma vaspin level was found to be an independent predictor of MACE, particularly in the non-CAD group.

Conclusions

Plasma vaspin may be a useful biomarker for prediction of MACE in patients with chest pain.

Intron specific polymorphic site of vaspin gene along with vaspin circulatory levels can influence pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes

Vaspin, an insulin-sensitizing adipokine, has been associated with type 2 diabetes (T2D). The present study aimed to investigate the distribution of genotypes and high-risk alleles of vaspin genetic variants (rs77060950 G/T and rs2236242 A/T), in Gujarat subpopulation (India). Genomic DNA isolated from PBMCs was used to genotype vaspin polymorphisms by PCR-RFLP and ARMS-PCR from 502 controls and 478 patients. RNA isolated from visceral adipose tissue (VAT) of 22 controls and 20 patients was used to assess vaspin transcript levels by qPCR while the vaspin titre of the subjects was assayed using ELISA. Phenotypic characteristics of Fasting Blood Glucose (FBG), BMI and plasma lipid profile were estimated and analyzed for the genotype-phenotype correlation. We identified a significant association of rs2236242 A/T with T2D as the TT genotype conferred a 3.087-fold increased risk. The TT genotype showed association with increased FBG, BMI and Triglycerides levels. Increased GA, GT and TA haplotype frequencies, decreased VAT transcript and vaspin protein levels in T2D patients was observed, which were further negatively correlated with FBG and BMI. In conclusion, rs2274907 A/T polymorphism is strongly associated with reduced vaspin transcript and protein levels, and related metabolic alterations that may play a role in the advancement of T2D.

Associations between Vaspin Levels and Coronary Artery Disease

The relationship between serum vaspin levels and metabolic or coronary artery disease is currently of interest for researchers. Although adipokine concentrations have been shown to be increased significantly in atherosclerotic lesions, the role adipokines in the atherosclerotic process remains to be elucidated. Vaspin is a new biological marker associated with obesity and impaired insulin sensitivity. Plasma vaspin concentration has been shown to correlate with the severity of coronary artery disease. Vascular inflammation triggered by vaspin inhibits atherogenesis by suppressing macrophage foam cell formation and vascular smooth muscle cell migration and proliferation. Vaspin also contributes to plaque stabilization by increasing collagen content and reducing the intraplaque macrophage to vascular smooth muscle cell ratio. The therapeutic goal concerning vaspin is to fight atherosclerosis and related diseases, as well as to maintain vascular health.

The role of adipokines in the pathogenesis of gestational diabetes mellitus

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a complex condition whose physiopathology to date has not been completely clarified. Two major metabolic disorders, insulin resistance and β-cells dysfunction, play currently major role in pathogenesis of GDM. These elements are influenced by the amount of adipose tissue present before and/or during the pregnancy. Consequently, adipokines (adiponectin (APN), leptin (LPT), adipocyte fatty acid-binding protein, resistin, visfatin, omentin, vaspin, apelin, chemerin) secreted by adipose tissue, may contribute directly and/or indirectly, through the enhancement of chronic inflammation, aggravating insulin resistance and promoting GDM onset. This review aims to outline the potential physiopathological and prognostic role in GDM of adipokines, mainly APN and LPT.

Association of vaspin rs2236242 gene variants with type 2 diabetes and obesity in a Chinese population: A prospective, single-center study

AIM

Vaspin is an adipokine separated from visceral fat tissues of obese diabetic rats. This study was to investigate the association between vaspin rs2236242 gene polymorphism and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) or obesity in a Chinese population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

T2DM patients and nondiabetic controls were recruited from Qingpu Branch of Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University (Shanghai, China) from May 1, 2015 to June 30, 2017. Clinicopathologic characteristics were recorded and their blood samples were collected. Serum vaspin levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and vaspin rs2236242 genotypes by tetra-amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

Two hundred and ninety-nine patients with T2DM and 311 controls were recruited at last. The vaspin genotypes of diabetic patients were distinct from nondiabetic controls (χ ²  = 54.611, p < 0.0001). Genotyping revealed that T2DM patients have a greater prevalence of A allele compared with controls (61.9% vs. 42.1%, p < 0.0001). A allele was associated with an increased risk of T2DM (odds ratio = 2.23, 95% confidence interval = 1.773-2.804, p < 0.0001) compared with T allele. The genotype distribution did not differ among nondiabetic subjects with or without obesity. The serum vaspin levels were higher in T2DM patients and obese controls than the nonobese controls, however, the rs2236242 was not found to be significantly related to serum vaspin levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings showed the association between vaspin rs2236242 gene variants with obesity and T2DM in a Chinese population. People with rs2236242 A allele had a 2.23-fold increased risk of T2DM. These findings suggest that vaspin rs2236242 may serve as a potential diagnostic and/or therapeutic targets for T2DM.

Is there a relationship between serum vaspin levels and insulin resistance in chronic renal failure?

Objective

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients have insulin secretion disorders and resistance to insulin effects, that is responsible for the development of cardiovascular events. Vaspin is an adipocytokine that regulates glucose and lipid metabolism. We aimed to determine the serum vaspin levels and its relationship with insulin resistance in CKD patients.

Methods

In the study groups, serum vaspin levels, anthropometric parameters and routine blood tests were measured. The serum vaspin levels were examined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and insulin resistance was determined by the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) formula.

Results

The serum vaspin, HOMA-IR index and insulin levels were observed significantly high in the CKD group in comparison with the control group. No correlation was found between the serum vaspin level and the anthropometric and metabolic values. The serum vaspin level was positively correlated with the fasting plasma glucose and age but without statistical significance.

Conclusion

Insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia contribute to the development of cardiovascular complications in CKD. We consider that the increase in the serum vaspin level is a consequence of the reduced renal excretion in the CKD and increases in response to insulin resistance.

Nesfatin-1 and Vaspin as Potential Novel Biomarkers for the Prediction and Early Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is considered to be one of the most frequent medical complication observed among pregnant women. The role of adipokines in the pathogenesis of GDM remains strictly unknown. Different adipokines have been studied throughout gestation, and they have been proposed as biomarkers of GDM and other pregnancy-related complications; however, there is no biomarker reported for GDM screening at present. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum nesfatin-1 and vaspin levels in GDM and non-GDM women, to characterize the correlation between these adipokines, and to assess the potential role of circulating adipokines in the prediction of risk of gestational diabetes mellitus. Serum concentrations of nesfatin-1 and vaspin were measured in 153 women with GDM, and in 84 patients with uncomplicated pregnancy by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Circulating levels of nesfatin-1 and vaspin were significantly lower in the GDM group than in the control group. Nesfatin-1 levels were negatively correlated with vaspin levels. The results of this study point out the possible role of nesfatin-1 and vaspin as potential novel biomarkers for the prediction and early diagnosis of GDM. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the influence of nesfatin-1 and vaspin on glucose metabolism in the early stages of GDM.

The complex effects of adipokines in the patients with kidney disease

Kidney diseases are categorized as the highest prevalent ones with worldwide noticeable incidence. They cause accelerated cardiovascular diseases and noticeable mortalities. Adipose tissue and its messengers, adipokines, are reported to have the highest relationship with end-stage renal diseases or chronic kidney diseases. Over recent years, with shifting of scientists’ mindset from a simple overview of adipose tissue as a fat store to the complex paradigm of this issue as a multipotential secretory organ, the importance of studies on this tissue has emerged.

Effects of Omega-3 Supplementation on Adipocytokines in Prediabetes and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the effects of omega-3 supplementation on adipocytokine levels in adult prediabetic and diabetic individuals.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Cochrane Trial Register, World Health Organization Clinical Trial Registry Platform, and Clinicaltrial.gov Registry from inception to August 1, 2017 for randomized controlled trials. Pooled effects of interventions were assessed as mean difference using random effects model. We conducted a sensitivity, publication bias and subgroup analysis.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies individuals (n=685) were included in the meta-analysis. Omega-3 supplementation increased levels of adiponectin (0.48 μg/mL; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.27 to 0.68; P<0.00001, n=10 trials), but effects disappeared after sensitivity analysis. Tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) levels were reduced (-1.71; 95% CI, -3.38 to -0.14; P=0.03, n=8 trials). Treatment duration shorter than 12 weeks was associated with greater reduction than longer treatment duration. Levels of other adipocytokines were not significantly affected. Publication bias could generally not be excluded.

CONCLUSION

Eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid supplementation may increase adiponectin and reduce TNF-α levels in this population group. However, due to overall study heterogeneity and potential publication bias, a cautious interpretation is needed.

Molecular Mechanisms of Vaspin Action - From Adipose Tissue to Skin and Bone, from Blood Vessels to the Brain

Visceral adipose tissue-derived serine protease inhibitor (vaspin) or SERPINA12 according to the serpin nomenclature was identified together with other genes and gene products that were specifically expressed or overexpressed in the intra-abdominal or visceral adipose tissue (AT) of the Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima fatty rat. These rats spontaneously develop visceral obesity, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia and -glycemia, as well as hypertension and thus represent a well suited animal model of obesity and related metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes.The follow-up study reporting the cloning, expression and functional characterization of vaspin suggested the great and promising potential of this molecule to counteract obesity induced insulin resistance and inflammation and has since initiated over 300 publications, clinical and experimental, that have contributed to uncover the multifaceted functions and molecular mechanisms of vaspin action not only in the adipose, but in many different cells, tissues and organs. This review will give an update on mechanistic and structural aspects of vaspin with a focus on its serpin function, the physiology and regulation of vaspin expression, and will summarize the latest on vaspin function in various tissues such as the different adipose tissue depots as well as the vasculature, skin, bone and the brain.

Serum vaspin concentration in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and macrovascular complications

BACKGROUND

Adipose tissue, an endocrine organ of the body, is involved in some obesity-related disease states such as insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, and atherosclerosis. Vaspin is a novel adipocyte with insulin sensitizing effects. In this study, we planned to estimate serum vaspin concentrations as related to glycemic status and the presence of macrovascular complications among elderly patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

A total of 230 elderly patients with T2DM were evaluated. These patients were divided into two groups: patients without complications (T2DM group, n = 110), and patients with macrovascular complications (T2DM + MC group, n = 120). In addition, 60 healthy elderly subjects were enrolled and assigned into the control group (NC group). Relevant parameters were matched for age and gender ratio. Serum vaspin concentrations were measured by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Anthropometric measurements, plasma glucose and HbA_1C levels, insulin concentration, liver and kidney functions, and lipid profile were measured for each participant.

RESULTS

Serum vaspin concentrations were significantly higher in the T2DM group than in the T2DM + MC group (F = 13.122, P < 0.01). These concentrations were also significantly higher among females, compared to males (T = 3.567, P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis revealed that serum vaspin concentration, systolic blood pressure, HDL-C and T2DM duration were independent influencing factors for diabetic macrovascular complications.

CONCLUSION

Serum vaspin may be considered as a potential marker to assess the status of elderly patients with T2DM and the risk of developing serious macrovascular complications. Further prospective studies are warranted.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ChiCTR-OPC-14005698 , retrospectively registered on 20 Dec. 2014.

Obesity risk prediction among women of Upper Egypt: The impact of serum vaspin and vaspin rs2236242 gene polymorphism

BACKGROUND

Vaspin is an adipokine that is potentially linking obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome and type-2 diabetes.

AIM

The present study aimed to investigate the impact of vaspin rs2236242 gene polymorphism on the risk of obesity, diabetes, their metabolic traits, and serum vaspin levels in a sample of Upper Egyptian women.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

A total of 224 subjects, 112 obese (62 non diabetics, 50 diabetics) and 112 controls were included in this case control study. Vaspin gene rs2236242 polymorphism was performed using tetra-amplification refractory mutation system-polymerase chain reaction (T-ARMS-PCR) and serum vaspin levels were estimated by ELISA.

RESULTS

The minor (A) allele of vaspin rs2236242 gene polymorphism was significantly lower in obese (30.8%) than controls (43.7%) (P=0.005). The protective effect was evident in dominant and recessive inheritance models (TT vs TA+AA, P=0.004 and TT+TA vs AA, P=0.036). After adjusting genotypes for diabetes there were no significant association between vaspin rs2236242 gene polymorphism and obesity but significant association was maintained in the obese diabetics. Vaspin serum levels were found to be lower in minor protective (AA) genotype carriers than the other two genotypes (P<0.001). In the mean-time serum vaspin levels were significantly higher in obese diabetics and non-diabetics than controls (P<0.001 each).There were significant positive correlations between vaspin levels and hs-CRP, cholesterol, LDL-C, fasting glucose, HOMA-IR, insulin, and ALT values (P<0.05 each) and a negative correlation with HDL-C (P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

The minor A allele of vaspin rs2236242 polymorphism plays a protective role against obesity and diabetes but this relation is largely ascribed to its effect on insulin resistance. The serum vaspin concentration was lower in minor protective allele carriers. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study of vaspin SNP in Upper Egyptian women. The entire understanding of vaspin intimate mechanistic action might enable the development of novel etiology-based treatment strategies for obesity, the complex genetic trait.

Vaspin in newly and previously diagnosed Chinese type 2 diabetic females: a case-control study

Background: Visceral adipose tissue-derived serine protease inhibitor (vaspin) is a novel adipocytokine. Several studies have indicated that vaspin may exert an important role in the development of metabolic disorders.

Objective: Evaluate serum vaspin and its relation to clinical parameters in newly and previously diagnosed Chinese type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) females as a case-control study.

Materials and methods: One hundred twenty female participants (newly and previously diagnosed T2DM patients) were recruited from an affiliated hospital of Harbin Medical University. Sixty healthy female volunteers from various communities were included as controls. Anthropometric parameters, serum fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, lipid profile, HbA1c, and vaspin were measured in each participant.

Results: Serum vaspin levels were significantly lower in previously diagnosed T2DM patients (0.51±0.29 ng/mL) than in newly diagnosed T2DM patients (0.62±0.28 ng/mL) and healthy controls (0.69±0.31 ng/mL). However, there was no difference in serum vaspin between newly diagnosed T2DM patients and healthy controls. In multiple linear regression analysis, serum vaspin was significantly and positively associated with HbA1c in both newly and previously diagnosed T2DM patients, negatively associated with homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance in previously diagnosed patients, and positively correlated with age and body mass index in healthy controls.

Conclusion: Serum vaspin was significantly lower in previously diagnosed T2DM patients than in newly diagnosed T2DM patients and healthy controls. Serum vaspin might be a predictor of poor glucose control and insulin resistance in T2DM.

Impact of age on plasma vaspin concentration in a group of normal Chinese people

PURPOSE

Visceral adipose tissue-derived serine protease inhibitor (vaspin) is an adipocytokine with insulin-sensitizing effects. Accumulating data implied that vaspin represents a compensatory mechanism but it is unknown how vaspin change during ageing. This study was designed to examine the correlation between plasma vaspin and age in a group of normal Chinese people.

METHODS

A total of 191 Chinese volunteers aged 19-80 years were enrolled into four groups based upon age quartiles (19-35, 36-50, 51-65 and 66-80 years). Demographic, anthropometric, metabolic covariates, vaspin and adiponectin were measured. The influence of age on plasma vaspin was analysed using SPSS 13.0.

RESULTS

Vaspin increased with ageing, with mean vaspin levels (ng/mL) of 1.01 ± 2.25, 1.67 ± 2.95, 2.05 ± 3.46 and 2.40 ± 3.06 for those between quartile ages 19-35, 36-50, 51-65 and 66-80 years. When divided into subgroups, vaspin increased with increasing age for both sexes, both insulin resistance and non-insulin resistance subjects and both obese and lean subjects. In univariate analyses, vaspin plasma level positively associated with age (r = 0.215, p = 0.003), adiponectin, insulin, homoeostasis model of assessment for insulin resistance index and waist-hip ratio in the whole population. The correlation between ageing and increasing vaspin remained significant after multivariate adjustments for factors such as sex, body mass index, waist-hip ratio, indices of glucose metabolism, white blood cell, lipid profile and adiponectin. Stepwise multiple regression analysis showed that age contributed 7.6 % on plasma vaspin level.

CONCLUSION

Vaspin level increased with ageing, independent of sex, indices of glucose metabolism, lipid profile and other markers of adiposity.

Assessment of Serum VASPIN Levels among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients with or without Acute Coronary Syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is on the verge of becoming a pandemic in India. Type 2 DM patient have two to four times increased risk of carotid artery disease. Adipokines have been regarded recently as direct link between diabetes and atherosclerosis. Visceral Adipose Tissue Derived Serine Protease Inhibitor (VASPIN); one of the most recently discovered adipokine, inhibits the proteases responsible for insulin resistance, carotid plaque development and rupture. In literature, few studies have addressed the role of VASPIN in pathogenesis of Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) in patients with type 2 DM.

AIM

To find association between serum VASPIN with lipid profile, creatine kinase-total, creatine kinase-MB, troponin-I, age, height, weight, blood pressure, smoking, family history of ACS and to prove the hypothesis of low serum VASPIN level as predictor of ACS in patients with type 2 DM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-one type 2 DM patients (controls) and 41 type 2 DM patients with ACS (cases) were enrolled in the study. Anthropometric measurements were performed and fasting serum biochemical parameters and VASPIN were measured. The results of cases and controls were compared by student t-test or Mann-Whitney test. All the parameters were correlated with serum VASPIN by Pearson's or Spearman's correlation.

RESULTS

Fasting serum VASPIN concentration was significantly (p< 0.0001) lower in the cases (0.43±0.22 pg/ml) than in the controls (0.83±0.29 pg/ml). Correlation analysis undertaken on all type 2 DM showed that serum VASPIN concentration was negatively correlated with age, waist circumference, hip circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, duration of diabetes, serum Creative Kinase-Total, CK-MB and urea (p< 0.05). Utilizing Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve, the serum VASPIN level of less than 0.594pg/ml showed greatest risk of ACS among type 2 DM patients (p< 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Type 2 DM patients with low serum vaspin concentration were at risk of ACS independent of other cardiovascular risk factors.

Chemerin: a new biomarker to predict postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis

INTRODUCTION

Individuals with increased visceral adiposity are considered to be more sensitive and more prone to severe acute pancreatitis because of the inflammatory microenvironment they have. We hypothesized that insulin resistance, adipokines, and proinflammatory cytokines that markedly affect the course of pancreatitis can contribute toward development of postendoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (post-ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP) and aimed to investigate the association between PEP risk and preprocedural serum vaspin, chemerin, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels, and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Eighty-two patients with a diagnosis of choledocholithiasis and 30 controls were enrolled. Preprocedural chemerin, vaspin, IL-6, and well-known PEP risk factors were compared between PEP and non-PEP groups.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 56.3±14.4 years; 52 patients were women. Adipocytokine levels, BMIs, and waist circumferences of the patient group were found to be higher than those of the controls. Total cannulation success and the mean procedure time were 82.9% and 28.7±8.8 min, respectively. PEP developed in 12 (14.6%) patients. Chemerin levels in the PEP group were higher than those in the non-PEP group (580.2±172.5 vs. 392.2±168.2 ng/ml, P<0.01). Insulin resistance was higher in the PEP group than the non-PEP group (P=0.001), but there was no significant difference between PEP and non-PEP groups in terms of preprocedural vaspin, tumor necrosis factor α, IL-6, and C-reactive protein levels. According to logistic regression analysis, increased chemerin levels, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance 2.5 or greater, and pancreatic duct cannulation were found to be independent risk factors for PEP [odds ratio (OR)=1.006, P=0.006; OR=4.57, P=0.05; OR=6.54, P=0.02].

CONCLUSION

Elevated serum chemerin levels and insulin resistance are independent risk factors of PEP development.

The correlation of inflammatory markers and plasma vaspin levels in patients with diabetic nephropathy

Vaspin, a recently identified adipokine, is a visceral adipose tissue-derived serine protease inhibitor that may have insulin sensitizing effect on adipose tissue. Herein, we measured vaspin level in patients with different stages of diabetic nephropathy (DNP), and investigated the correlation of the vaspin level with other inflammatory parameters. 106 adult type 2 diabetic patients with no known chronic inflammatory disease were included and grouped according to the stage of DNP: Albuminuria <30 mg/day and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) > 60 mL/min/1.73m(2) (Group-1); albuminuria 30-300 mg/day and eGFR >60 mL/min/1.73m(2) (Group-2); albuminuria >300 mL/min and eGFR <60 mL/min/1.73m(2) (Group-3). Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were recorded as well as vaspin, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), interleukin (IL)-1 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels. There were 38, 35 and 33 patients in Group 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Groups were similar regarding age and gender. Vaspin level did not differ between groups. When all the groups were considered, vaspin was positively correlated with IL-6 level (r = 0.215, p = 0.041). No correlation of vaspin was found with IL-1, TNF-α and hsCRP levels (p = 0.580, r = 0.054; p = 0.463, r = 0.072; p = 0.812, r = 0.025, respectively). Vaspin levels of the patients with GFR ≥60 mL/min/1.73m(2) was less than that of patients with GFR <60 mL/min/1.73m(2) (p = 0.03). Age and IL-6 were found to be the major determinants of vaspin level with linear regression analysis. In patients with DNP, vaspin level does not change within the early stages of DNP; while it is higher in patients with decreased GFR, which may be related with increasing inflammation regardless of the stage of the kidney disease.

Is vaspin related to cardio-metabolic status and autonomic function in early stages of glucose intolerance and in metabolic syndrome?

BACKGROUND

This study aims to assess serum vaspin in early stages of glucose intolerance and in the presence of metabolic syndrome (MetS); and to evaluate vaspin correlation to different cardio-metabolic parameters and autonomic tone in these subjects.

METHODS

185 subjects (80 males and 105 females) of mean age 45.8 ± 11.6 years and mean BMI 31.2 ± 6.3 kg/m(2), divided into groups according to: glucose tolerance, presence of MetS and cardio-vascular autonomic dysfunction (CAD), were enrolled. Glucose tolerance was studied during OGTT. Anthropometric indices, blood pressure, HbA1c, serum lipids, hsCRP, fasting immunoreactive insulin and serum vaspin were measured. Body composition was estimated by impedance analysis. AGEs were assessed by skin fluorescence. CAD was assessed by ANX-3.0.

RESULTS

There was no difference in vaspin levels between the groups according to glucose tolerance, presence of MetS, and CAD. Regression analysis revealed independent association between serum vaspin and total body fat in newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes (NDT2D) group, and between serum vaspin and age and total body fat in MetS group. Vaspin negatively correlated with both sympathetic and parasympathetic activity in normal glucose tolerance (NGT) and just with parasympathetic tone in NGT without MetS.

CONCLUSION

Our results demonstrate no overt fluctuations in vaspin levels in the early stages of glucose intolerance and in MetS. Total body fat seems to be related to vaspin levels in MetS and NDT2D. Our data show negative correlation between vaspin and autonomic function in NGT, as vaspin is associated with parasympathetic activity even in the absence of MetS.

Mediatory effect of circulating vaspin on resting metabolic rate in obese individuals

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Vaspin is a recently identified adipokine related to obesity and insulin sensitivity. The precise mechanism of vaspin in the body is not well known, and its function in resting metabolic rate (RMR) is even less understood. Therefore, the main aim of this study was to investigate the effect of circulating vaspin on RMR in obese people.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 222 obese participants were included in the current comparative cross-sectional study. Body composition was measured using body composition analyzer. RMR was measured by means of indirect calorimetry. For the measurement of vaspin serum concentrations, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used. Dietary intake was assessed using 3-day 24-h dietary recall.

RESULTS

Between low and high circulating vaspin groups, there was significant difference for sex (P = 0.03), fat percent (P = 0.008), RMR per weight (P < 0.001), and RMR per fat free mass (FFM) (P = 0.007). However, there was no statistical difference between the groups in dietary intake after adjustment for energy intake (P > 0.05). Furthermore, individuals with higher level of RMR had higher vaspin concentration. Weight, visceral fat, FFM, and fat mass had significant effect on increasing RMR (P < 0.05) but after adding vaspin as a covariate in the general linear model; visceral fat (P = 0.078) and fat mass (P = 0.339) missed their effectiveness.

CONCLUSION

Circulating vaspin level is higher in women than in men in obese individuals. Moreover, it was found that vaspin had mediator effect between visceral fat and fat mass associations with RMR in obese participants.

The role of vaspin in the development of metabolic and glucose tolerance disorders and atherosclerosis

In recent years, most research efforts have been focused on studying insulin-sensitizing adipokines. One of the most recently discovered adipokines is vaspin, a visceral adipose tissue-derived serine protease inhibitor. Vaspin levels have been found significantly increased in mice with obesity and insulin resistance. It has been assumed that vaspin serves as an insulin sensitizer with anti-inflammatory effects and might act as a compensatory mechanism in response to decreased insulin sensitivity. Most studies in humans have shown a positive correlation between vaspin gene expression and serum levels, and metabolic syndrome parameters. Vaspin gene expression is influenced by age and gender, and the administration of insulin sensitizers enhances it in mice, whereas the use of metformin decreases serum vaspin levels in humans, probably due to different regulatory mechanisms. Presumably vaspin plays local and endocrine role in the development of initial and advanced atherosclerosis in obese subjects and might be used as a predictor of coronary and cerebrovascular disease. It is believed that vaspin could be regarded as a new link between obesity and related metabolic disorders, including glucose intolerance. The entire understanding of vaspin intimate mechanism of action might enable the development of novel etiology-based treatment strategies, targeting metabolic and glucose tolerance disorders.

Higher vaspin levels in subjects with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis

AIMS

Visceral adipose tissue-derived serpin (vaspin) was identified as a new adipocytokine. Many studies reported vaspin concentrations in obese subjects and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients. However, large variation in levels of vaspin seen in different studies may be attributable to differences of sample size. The aim of this study is to establish an accurate confidence interval of vaspin levels in obese subjects and T2DM patients using a large-scale meta-analysis.

METHODS

Publications of the association between vaspin and obesity and T2DM in the databases of Medline, PubMed and EMBase were collected. The keywords included "vaspin" and "visceral adipose tissue-derived serpin". Review manager 5.0 was used to process the data.

RESULTS

For the analysis of obesity, 6 studies with 1826 participants were included in our meta-analysis; the level of vaspin was 0.52ng/ml [95% confidence interval (CI)](0.10-0.93, P=0.02) higher in obese subjects than that in non-obese healthy controls. Eleven studies with 1570 patients were included for the analysis of T2DM; the level of vaspin was 0.36ng/ml [95%CI] (0.23-0.49, P<0.00001) higher compared with that in healthy controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Significantly higher levels of serum vaspin were observed in obese subjects and T2DM patients.

Role of serum vaspin in progression of type 2 diabetes: a 2-year cohort study

Vaspin is a novel adipocytokine that has potential insulin-sensitizing effects. The aim of this study is to explore the role of vaspin in the progression of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in humans through a longitudinal process. This was a 2-year follow-up study that included 132 patients with T2DM and 170 non-diabetic subjects. The serum vaspin and adiponectin levels were determined with ELISA. Anthropometric measurements, circulating glucose, hemoglobin A1c, insulin level, liver function, kidney function, and lipid profile were measured for each participant. The new onset of T2DM was counted in non-diabetic subjects and the glycemic control was analyzed in T2DM patients at follow-up. At enrollment, the serum vaspin and adiponectin levels were lower in T2DM patients compared with non-diabetic subjects. Significant positive correlation between serum vaspin and HDL-C levels (r = 0.23, P = 0.006) was observed in non-diabetic controls. The serum vaspin concentration was also significantly correlated with body mass index (BMI) (r = 0.19, P = 0.028), waist-hip ratio (WHR) (r = 0.17, P = 0.035) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (r = 0.14, P = 0.029) in T2DM patients. In cohort analyses, it was found that lower serum vaspin [odds ratio (OR) = 0.52, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.10–0.87, P = 0.015] and adiponectin (OR = 0.35, 95% CI: 0.20–0.72, P = 0.015) levels at baseline were risk factors for new onset of T2DM at follow-up. The percentage of insulin treatment in T2DM patients was higher in the sub-group with lower serum vaspin level than that in the sub-group with higher vaspin level at follow-up (55.3% vs. 44.7%, P = 0.020). Our study indicates that low serum concentration of vaspin is a risk factor for the progression of T2DM.

Fenofibrate increases serum vaspin by upregulating its expression in adipose tissue

Fenofibrate is a peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α that has been clinically used to treat dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. To better understand the molecular mechanisms underlying fenofibrate action, we investigated whether fenofibrate affects serum levels of vaspin, an adipocytokine that has recently been shown to link obesity and insulin resistance. Fenofibrate treatment significantly increased serum vaspin levels of dyslipidemic patients, which correlated with reduced body weight and increased insulin sensitivity. To elucidate the biochemical mechanisms of fenofibrate action, we investigated the effect of fenofibrate on vaspin mRNA and protein expressions in obese rats. Fenofibrate greatly increased vaspin mRNA and protein levels in visceral adipose tissue consisting of retroperitoneal, mesenteric, and periepididymal adipose tissue but not in the subcutaneous adipose tissue, which correlated with increased serum vaspin levels and increased insulin sensitivity in obese rats. Consistent with a direct effect on vaspin expression, fenofibrate treatment significantly increased the mRNA and protein expression levels of vaspin in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Together, our results demonstrate for the first time that fenofibrate upregulates vaspin expression in dyslipidemic human subjects and suggest that upregulation of vaspin expression in adipocytes may provide a mechanism by which fenofibrate improves insulin sensitivity in dyslipidemic patients.

Serum vaspin levels are positively associated with carotid atherosclerosis in a general population

OBJECTIVES

Vaspin is a novel adipocytokine with potential insulin-sensitizing properties. Insulin resistance (IR) plays a role in the development and progression of atherosclerosis. However, the relationship between serum vaspin levels and atherosclerosis remains unknown. Therefore, we investigated whether vaspin was correlated with carotid intima-media thickness (c-IMT).

METHODS

Data for fasting vaspin levels of 201 subjects (78 men and 123 women aged over 40 years) were obtained from a general population in Japan. We obtained anthropometric parameters and blood chemistries, and calculated homeostasis model assessment-IR (HOMA-IR) index. C-IMT was measured by B-mode ultrasonography. The mean values of each parameter by tertiles of vaspin were compared with analysis of variance, and the associations of vaspin with IR and c-IMT were evaluated by multiple stepwise regression analysis.

RESULTS

Univariate analysis revealed that vaspin levels were positively correlated with BMI, insulin, HOMA-IR index, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), c-IMT and hypertensive medication. Multiple stepwise regression analysis revealed that HOMA-IR index, c-IMT and eGFR were significantly and independently associated with vaspin. We performed multivariate analyses with c-IMT as the dependent variable. Age, hypertensive medication and vaspin were significant for c-IMT. Moreover, a mediation analysis demonstrated that vaspin was significantly related to c-IMT, independently of IR.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study not only confirmed the previous finding of the positive association of vaspin with IR but also demonstrated that serum vaspin level was positively associated with c-IMT, independently of IR in a general population. Our results may suggest a role of vaspin in atherosclerosis in humans.

Evaluating vaspin and adiponectin in postmenopausal women with endometrial cancer

Insulin resistance is a well-documented risk factor for the development of endometrial cancer. Adiponectin and vaspin are insulin-sensitizing proteins that are secreted from adipose tissue. A clear association between serum levels of adipokines and endometrial cancer has yet to be established. The study group consisted of postmenopausal women with confirmed endometrial cancer, whereas patients with benign endometrial conditions constituted the control group. The two groups were compared in terms of insulin resistance and serum levels of adiponectin and vaspin. A total of 60 patients with confirmed endometrial cancer and 70 controls with benign endometrial conditions (polyps and atrophy) were enrolled. Median homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance value was significantly higher in the study group compared with the control group (2.93 vs 1.27, P<0.0001), whereas mean quantitative insulin sensitivity check index value was significantly lower (0.33 ± 0.02 vs 0.37 ± 0.37, P<0.0001). Median values for both adiponectin and vaspin were significantly lower in patients with endometrial cancer compared with the control group (4.09 vs 17.13 μg/ml, P<0.0001 and 0.21 vs 0.39 ng/ml, P<0.0001 respectively). Low levels of both adiponectin and vaspin were found to be significantly associated with an increased risk for endometrial cancer. Following adjustment for confounding factors, the respective odds ratios for endometrial cancer in patients in the first tertile compared with those in the third tertile were 10.80 (2.76-42.24; P=0.001) and 13.23 (2.94-59.64; P=0.001). Our results show that lower levels of circulating adiponectin and vaspin levels are associated with an increased risk of developing endometrial cancer.

Association between serum vaspin level and metabolic syndrome in healthy Korean subjects

BACKGROUND

Visceral obesity is associated with insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Vaspin [visceral adipose tissue (VAT)-derived serpin] may be a novel adipokine related to obesity and its metabolic consequences.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships among serum vaspin levels and VAT and the components of metabolic syndrome.

METHODS

A cross-sectional analysis of healthy men (n=97) and women (n=156) for clinical, laboratory, and anthropometric factors was undertaken. Serum vaspin levels were measured. Abdominal VAT and subcutaneous adipose tissue were measured by computed tomography.

RESULTS

Of 253 subjects, 47 (18%) had metabolic syndrome: 33 men (34%) and 14 women (9%). Serum vaspin concentration was significantly lower in men than in women and significantly lower in men with metabolic syndrome than in men without metabolic syndrome. Serum vaspin level tended to decrease with increasing number of metabolic syndrome components, and was negatively correlated with waist circumference, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, serum triglyceride level, and abdominal VAT, but positively correlated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level. However, after adjustment for sex, this correlation disappeared.

CONCLUSIONS

Low serum vaspin levels are associated with male gender and metabolic syndrome, particularly in men, and with the majority of metabolic syndrome components.

Vaspin attenuates high glucose-induced vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation and chemokinesis by inhibiting the MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and NF-κB signaling pathways

BACKGROUND

Vaspin has insulin-sensitizing effects, as well as additional beneficial effects on metabolic diseases. However, little is known about the direct effects of vaspin on vascular complications mediated by diabetes. The objective of this study is to determine the efficacy and mechanism of vaspin on hyperglycemia-induced vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation, chemokinesis and cell signaling.

METHODS

Rat VSMCs proliferation was determined with 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine cell proliferation assays, chemokinesis was monitored with scratch assays, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was assessed using H2DCFDA and SOD-inhibited reduction of ferricytochrome c assay. Luciferase activity is assayed using a Dual Luciferase Reporter Assay System. Cell signaling is assessed by immunoblotting.

RESULTS

Vaspin significantly inhibited VSMCs proliferation and chemokinesis, as well as ROS generation and NADPH oxidase activity, induced by high glucose (HG) treatment. Compared with HG, vaspin significantly decreased VSMCs proliferation by 40 ± 8% at 100 ng/ml. Vaspin also decreased ROS production by 16 ± 8% at 100 ng/ml and 30 ± 8% at 300 ng/ml (all P < 0.01). Vaspin significantly abolished HG-induced phosphorylation of oxidase subunits p47phox, Akt, p38, and JNK1/2 without affecting their total levels, and attenuated HG-induced phosphorylation of insulin receptor and its downstream IRS-1 and IRS-2. For downstream targets, NF-κB activity and IκBα phosphorylation were both enhanced significantly after HG stimulation, and these effects were inhibited by vaspin. Vaspin also significantly abolished HG-induced PCNA and cyclin D1 expression.

CONCLUSIONS

Vaspin inhibits HG-induced VSMCs proliferation and chemokinesis by preventing ROS activation and MAPK, PI3K/Akt, and NF-κB signaling.

Association between novel adipocytokines adiponectin, vaspin, visfatin, and thyroid: An experimental and clinical update

Adipose tissue secretes a variety of active biological substances, called adipocytokines, that act in an autocrine, paracrine, and endocrine manner. They have roles in appetite control, thermogenesis, and thyroid and reproductive functions. All these molecules may lead to local and generalized inflammation, mediating obesity-associated vascular disorders including hypertension, diabetes, atherosclerosis, and insulin resistance. Thyroid dysfunction is associated with changes in body weight, thermogenesis, and energy expenditure. The connections between cardiovascular risk factors such as dyslipidemia, impaired glucose tolerance, insulin resistance, atherosclerosis, and thyroid dysfunction have been reported in several studies. The adipocytokines serve as causative or protective factors in the development of these disorders in the states of thyroid dysfunction. Abnormal levels of adipocytokines (adiponectin (ADP), leptin, resistin, vaspin, and visfatin) in hypo- and hyperthyroidism have been reported with controversial results. This review aims to update the implication of novel adipokines ADP, vaspin, and visfatin in thyroid dysfunction.

The serum vaspin levels are reduced in Japanese chronic hemodialysis patients

Background

Visceral adipose tissue-derived serine proteinase inhibitor (vaspin) is an adipokine identified in genetically obese rats that correlates with insulin resistance and obesity in humans. Recently, we found that 7% of the Japanese population with the minor allele sequence (A) of rs77060950 exhibit higher levels of serum vaspin. We therefore evaluated the serum vaspin levels in Japanese chronic hemodialysis patients.

Methods

Healthy Japanese control volunteers (control; n = 95, 49.9±6.91 years) and Japanese patients undergoing hemodialysis therapy (HD; n = 138, 51.4±10.5 years) were enrolled in this study, and serum samples were subjected to the human vaspin RIA system.

Results

The measurement of the serum vaspin levels demonstrated that a fraction of control subjects (n = 5) and HD patients (n = 11) exhibited much higher levels (> 10 ng/ml; Vaspin_High group), while the rest of the population exhibited lower levels (< 3 ng/ml; Vaspin_Low group). By comparing the patients in the Vaspin_Low group, the serum vaspin levels were found to be significantly higher in the control subjects (0.87±0.24 ng/ml) than in the HD patients (0.32±0.15 ng/ml) (p < 0.0001). In the stepwise regression analyses, the serum creatinine and triglyceride levels were found to be independently and significantly associated with the vaspin concentrations in all subjects.

Conclusions

The creatinine levels are negatively correlated with the serum vaspin levels and were significantly reduced in the Japanese HD patients in the Vaspin_Low group.

Serum vaspin levels in women with and without gestational diabetes mellitus during pregnancy and postpartum

Although vaspin is regarded an insulin-sensitizing adipokine, its role in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is currently unknown. We aimed to evaluate serum vaspin levels and their correlation with insulin resistance in women with and without GDM. Forty-four women with GDM [GDM Group - 20 managed with diet only (GDM-diet) and 24 with diet plus insulin (GDM-insulin)] and 44 age-matched pregnant women with normal glucose tolerance (Control Group) were studied. Serum glucose, lipids, uric acid, insulin and vaspin were measured at the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy and postpartum. The quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (QUICKI) and homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were calculated. Circulating vaspin levels decreased significantly postpartum in all groups (p<0.001), but did not differ between GDM or GDM Subgroups and Control Group in any time point. At the 3rd trimester of pregnancy vaspin was positively correlated to insulin (p=0.022), HOMA-IR (p=0.016) and triglycerides (p=0.033) and negatively correlated to QUICKI (p=0.016) in the GDM women, but not in the Controls. These correlations were not observed at the 2nd trimester or postpartum. Vaspin, in contrast to HOMA-IR, could not independently predict GDM in binary logistic regression. In patients with GDM, insulin treatment did not affect vaspin levels. In conclusion, our data suggest that vaspin levels gradually decrease from the 2nd trimester to postpartum; however, decreases are similar between women with or without GDM. Serum vaspin cannot independently predict GDM and it is not affected by the degree of glucose metabolism deregulation or the exogenous administration of insulin.

Vaspin Serum Concentration in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes and Carotid Plaque

Objective:

To examine whether there is an association between the serum concentration of vaspin and the presence of carotid plaque in early stage type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods:

Patients ( n = 61) with T2DM within 3 years of diagnosis were divided into those with and those without carotid plaque. Fasting serum vaspin levels, measured by enzymelinked immunosorbent assay, and blood pressure were compared between these two groups and also with an age-matched, apparently healthy control group ( n = 26).

Results:

Fasting serum vaspin concentrations were significantly higher in patients with T2DM without carotid plaque than in controls, but significantly lower in T2DM patients with carotid plaque than inthose without. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed a significant positive association between the presence of carotid plaque and systolic blood pressure and a significant inverse association between the presence of carotid plaque and fasting serum vaspin concentration.

Conclusion:

A significant inverse association was found, in patients with T2DM within 3 years of diagnosis, between serum vaspin concentration and the presence of carotid plaque.

Vaspin in obesity and diabetes: pathophysiological and clinical significance

Vaspin (visceral adipose tissue-derived serpin; serpinA12) was originally identified as an adipokine, which is predominantly secreted from visceral adipose tissue in Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima fatty (OLETF), an animal model of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Consistent with that higher vaspin serum concentrations and increased vaspin mRNA expression in human adipose tissue were found to be associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes in humans. However, the mechanisms how vaspin secretion may be linked to deterioration of glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity are not entirely understood. Vaspin serum concentrations show a food intake-related diurnal variation. Vaspin is also expressed in the skin, hypothalamus, pancreatic islets, and stomach. Administration of vaspin to obese mice improves glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity, and reduces food intake. Until now molecular target(s) of vaspin and its mode of action are unknown. Thus, identification of the proteases, which are inhibited by vaspin may lead to the development of novel strategies in the treatment of obesity, diabetes and insulin resistance. This review discusses the clinical relevance of vaspin in the pathophysiology of obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Vaspin plasma concentrations and mRNA expressions in patients with stable and unstable angina pectoris

BACKGROUND

Vaspin was a recently identified adipokine, playing a protective role in many metabolic diseases. The present study aimed to investigate the association between vaspin plasma level and stable angina pectoris (SAP) and unstable angina pectoris (UAP).

METHODS

A total of 88 patients with angiographically-proved coronary artery disease (CAD) (SAP 47, UAP 41) and 103 control subjects without cardiovascular diseases were enrolled in this study. Circulating vaspin, mRNA expression of vaspin in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC), clinical parameters, lipid profile and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were assayed. The severity of CAD was also assessed according to the number of vessels diseased.

RESULTS

There are significant differences in circulating vaspin levels and mRNA levels of PBMC between SAP and UAP groups (SAP 0.91±0.95 ng/mL and UAP 0.43±0.38 ng/mL, p<0.01 in circulating vaspin level; SAP 1.19±0.85 and UAP 0.82±0.56, p<0.05 in mRNA level of PBMC). An inverse correlation between the number of diseased vessels and plasma vaspin concentration was observed (r=-0.350, p<0.01) in the CAD group. Construction of receiver operating characteristic curves confirmed that vaspin plasma concentrations significantly differentiated CAD patients (area under the curve=0.684, p<0.001), as well as UAP (area under the curve=0.640, p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Decreased vaspin plasma levels and mRNA levels in PBMC were observed in patients with UAP. Low vaspin concentrations correlate with CAD severity. The findings suggested that vaspin could serve as a novel biomarker of CAD as well as UAP.