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Maxwell SL, Price JC, Perito ER, Rosenthal P, Wojcicki JM. Food insecurity is a risk factor for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in Latinx children. Pediatr Obes 2024; 19:e13109. [PMID: 38453472 PMCID: PMC11146202 DOI: 10.1111/ijpo.13109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common chronic liver disease among US children. Studies have associated food insecurity with MASLD in adults, but there are few studies of pediatric MASLD, particularly in high-risk populations. We assessed the impact of household food insecurity at 4 years of age on MASLD in Latinx children. METHODS Using a prospective cohort design, Latina mothers were recruited during pregnancy and followed with their children until early to mid-childhood. Our primary exposure was household food insecurity at 4 years of age measured using the validated US Household Food Security Food Module. Our primary outcome, MASLD, was defined as alanine transaminase (ALT) ≥95th% for age/gender plus body mass index (BMI) ≥85% at time of ALT measurement (assessed between ages 5-12). We used multivariable logistic regression models to test for independent associations between household food insecurity and pediatric MASLD. RESULTS Among 136 children, 28.7% reported household food insecurity at 4 years of age and 27.2% had MASLD in early to middle childhood. Approximately 49% of children with MASLD and 21% of children without MASLD were food insecure (p < 0.01). Exposure to household food insecurity at age 4 was independently associated with a 3.7-fold higher odds of MASLD later in childhood (95% CI: 1.5-9.0, p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Exposure to household food insecurity at 4 years of age was associated with increased risk for MASLD later in childhood. Further studies are needed to explore mechanism(s) and impact of reducing food insecurity on risk for MASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah L. Maxwell
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jennifer C. Price
- Division of Gastroenterology, Department of Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Emily R. Perito
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Philip Rosenthal
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Janet M. Wojcicki
- Division of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
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Codazzi V, Frontino G, Galimberti L, Giustina A, Petrelli A. Mechanisms and risk factors of metabolic syndrome in children and adolescents. Endocrine 2024; 84:16-28. [PMID: 38133765 PMCID: PMC10987369 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-023-03642-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a complex disorder characterized by abdominal obesity, elevated blood pressure, hyperlipidemia, and elevated fasting blood glucose levels. The diagnostic criteria for MetS in adults are well-established, but there is currently no consensus on the definition in children and adolescents. The etiology of MetS is believed to involve a complex interplay between genetic predisposition and environmental factors. While genetic predisposition explains only a small part of MetS pathogenesis, modifiable environmental risk factors play a significant role. Factors such as maternal weight during pregnancy, children's lifestyle, sedentariness, high-fat diet, fructose and branched-chain amino acid consumption, vitamin D deficiency, and sleep disturbances contribute to the development of MetS. Early identification and treatment of MetS in children and adolescents is crucial to prevent the development of chronic diseases later in life. In this review we discuss the latest research on factors contributing to the pathogenesis of MetS in children, focusing on non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors, including genetics, dysbiosis and chronic low-grade inflammation.
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Chiou FK, Goh L, Ho CWW, Rajan C, Logarajah V, Ng LQ, Phua KB. Clinical profile, referral trends, and real-world application of vibration-controlled transient elastography in children with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in Singapore. JGH Open 2024; 8:e13020. [PMID: 38268961 PMCID: PMC10805478 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.13020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Background and Aim Pediatric non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a progressive disorder that is increasing in incidence globally. The study aims to describe the clinical profile and longitudinal outcome, including the utility of vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE), in children with NAFLD at a single tertiary liver unit in Singapore. Methods Retrospective review of patients aged 0-18 years referred for NAFLD from 2003 to 2020 was conducted. Diagnosis was based on persistent elevation of alanine transaminase ≥2× the upper limit of normal in at-risk patients, and/or radiologic detection of hepatic steatosis, with the exclusion of other etiologies. VCTE-derived liver stiffness measurements (LSMs) ≤7.0 , 7.1-9.0, and ≥9.1 kPa were used to differentiate normal (F0-F1), significant fibrosis (F2), and advanced fibrosis (F3-F4), respectively. Results The study included 210 patients (72.4% male, mean age 11.6 years). New cases increased from 1.7/1000 referrals in 2003-2008 to 12.7 and 24.5/1000 referrals in 2009-2014 and 2015-2020, respectively. Significant proportion had dyslipidemia (41.4%), impaired glucose tolerance/diabetes (IGT/DM, 26.7%), and hypertension (17.1%). Only 6.2% had resolution of NAFLD after a mean follow-up of 3.7 years. Based on VCTE (n = 65), 41.5% had normal LSM, while 26.2% and 32.3% had increased likelihood of significant and advanced fibrosis, respectively. Age ≥16 years (odds ratio [OR] 8.9), IGT/DM (OR 6.5), and aspartate transaminase >70 U/L (OR 11.0) were independent risk factors associated with increased likelihood of advanced fibrosis. Conclusion Incidence of pediatric NAFLD has increased dramatically in Singapore. Based on LSM estimation, pediatric NAFLD may be associated with an increased risk of developing advanced fibrosis by late adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Kuan Chiou
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition Service, Paediatric MedicineKK Women's and Children's HospitalSingaporeSingapore
| | - Lynette Goh
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition Service, Paediatric MedicineKK Women's and Children's HospitalSingaporeSingapore
| | - Christopher Wen Wei Ho
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition Service, Paediatric MedicineKK Women's and Children's HospitalSingaporeSingapore
| | - Charanya Rajan
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition Service, Paediatric MedicineKK Women's and Children's HospitalSingaporeSingapore
| | - Veena Logarajah
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition Service, Paediatric MedicineKK Women's and Children's HospitalSingaporeSingapore
| | - Lay Queen Ng
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition Service, Paediatric MedicineKK Women's and Children's HospitalSingaporeSingapore
| | - Kong Boo Phua
- Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition Service, Paediatric MedicineKK Women's and Children's HospitalSingaporeSingapore
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Song K, Yang J, Lee HS, Oh JS, Kim S, Lee M, Suh J, Kwon A, Kim HS, Chae HW. Parental metabolic syndrome and elevated liver transaminases are risk factors for offspring, even in children and adolescents with a normal body mass index. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1166244. [PMID: 37941769 PMCID: PMC10627857 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1166244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The parent-child correlation in metabolic syndrome (MetS) and elevated transaminases is sparsely researched. We assessed the correlation of parental MetS and elevated transaminase status with these conditions in their children. Methods Data of 4,167 youths aged 10-18 years were analyzed in a population-based survey, and the parental characteristics were stratified by the presence or absence of MetS or alanine aminotransferase (ALT) elevation in their children. The prevalence of these conditions in children was analyzed according to their parents' status. Logistic regression analyses were performed with MetS and ALT elevation in youth as the dependent variables. Results The proportions of MetS and ALT elevation were higher in parents of children with MetS and ALT elevation than in those without, even among youths without obesity. In logistic regression analyses, age, body mass index-standard deviation score (BMI-SDS), and ALT elevation were positively associated with MetS, whereas age, male sex, BMI-SDS, protein intake, and MetS were positively associated with ALT elevation. Higher protein intake was related to ALT elevation, whereas metabolic components and nutritional factors were closely related in parents and their children. Odds ratios (OR) of ALT elevation for MetS was 8.96 even after adjusting nutritional factors in the children. The OR was higher for ALT elevation in the children of parents with MetS and ALT elevation compared to those without. ORs for MetS and ALT elevation in the children of parents with MetS were higher than those of children of parents without MetS, even after adjusting for nutritional intake. ORs for ALT elevation were higher in the children of parents with ALT elevation than those without, even after adjusting for nutritional intake and BMI of parents as well as the nutritional intake, age, sex, and BMI-SDS of the children. Conclusion MetS and elevated liver transaminase statuses in children were associated with those of their parents even after adjusting for nutritional factors, and the relationships were more prominent in the youth without obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungchul Song
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Juyeon Yang
- Biostatistics Collaboration Unit, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hye Sun Lee
- Biostatistics Collaboration Unit, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Jun Suk Oh
- Department of Pediatrics, Konyang University College of Medicine, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sujin Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Myeongseob Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Junghwan Suh
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ahreum Kwon
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Seong Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Wook Chae
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Avelar-Rodríguez D, Peña-Vélez R, Popov J, Hill L, Ryan PM. Probiotics and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in children and adolescents: a systematic review. REVISTA ESPANOLA DE ENFERMEDADES DIGESTIVAS 2023; 115:418-427. [PMID: 36412490 DOI: 10.17235/reed.2022.8796/2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in childhood is an increasing global public health issue with significant long-term consequences. NAFLD management mainly consists of lifestyle modifications, however, adjunct pharmacological therapies are currently lacking. Gut microbiota manipulation via probiotics may alter the course of pediatric NAFLD. The objective of this systematic review was to synthesize all the available literature on the use of probiotics in children and adolescents with NAFLD. METHODS PubMed, EBSCOhost, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were systematically searched for trials on the use of probiotics in pediatric NAFLD. A quantitative DerSimonian Laird random effects meta-analysis was performed when possible; otherwise, a narrative summary of the study outcomes was presented and discussed. A separate search was completed to include all the ongoing registered trials on probiotics use in pediatric NAFLD. RESULTS five randomized controlled trials met the inclusion criteria. Of these, four trials were included in the final quantitative analysis. Probiotic therapy significantly reduced the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (mean difference: -10.39 [-19.85, -0.93]), however significant heterogeneity between studies was identified (I2, 93 %). CONCLUSIONS there is insufficient evidence to support probiotics in the treatment of pediatric NAFLD given the substantial degree of discordance amongst the available trials. Lifestyle modifications focusing on maintaining a normal BMI and regular exercise continue to be the gold standard approach to treating NAFLD in children.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rubén Peña-Vélez
- Gastroenterología y Nutrición, Hospital General de Puebla "Dr. Eduardo Vázquez N", México
| | - Jelena Popov
- College of Medicine and Health. University College Cork
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Furdela V, Pavlyshyn H, Shulhai AM, Kozak K, Furdela M. Triglyceride glucose index, pediatric NAFLD fibrosis index, and triglyceride-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio are the most predictive markers of the metabolically unhealthy phenotype in overweight/obese adolescent boys. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1124019. [PMID: 37234798 PMCID: PMC10206000 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1124019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The prevalence of obesity constantly increases worldwide and definitely increases the risk of premature death in early adulthood. While there is no treatment yet with proven efficacy for the metabolic clamp such as arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, diabetes type 2, and fatty liver disease, it is imperative to find a way to decrease cardiometabolic complications. Early prevention strategies beginning in childhood are the most logical step to reduce future cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Therefore, the aim of the current study is to determine the most sensitive and specific predictive markers of the metabolically unhealthy phenotype with high cardiometabolic risk in overweight/obese adolescent boys. Methods This study was carried out at the Ternopil Regional Children's hospital (Western Ukraine) and involved 254 randomly chosen adolescent overweight or obese boys [median age was 16.0 (15.0,16.1) years]. A control group of 30 healthy children with proportional body weight comparable in gender and age to the main group was presented. A list of anthropometrical markers with biochemical values of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism with hepatic enzymes was determined. All overweight/obese boys were divided into three groups: 51.2% of the boys with metabolic syndrome (MetS) based on the IDF criteria; 19.7% of the boys were metabolically healthy obese (MHO) without hypertension, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycemia; and the rest of the boys (29.1%) were classified as metabolically unhealthy obese (MUO) with only one criterion (hypertension, dyslipidemia, or hyperglycemia). Results Based on multiple logistic regression analysis that included all anthropometric and biochemical values and calculated indexes in boys from the MHO group and MetS, it was revealed that the maximum likelihood in the prediction of MetS makes the combination of triglyceride glucose index, pediatric nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis index (PNFI), and triglyceride-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (R2 =0.713, p<0.000). By tracing the receiver operating characteristic curve, the model is confirmed as a good predictor of MetS (AUC=0.898, odds ratio=27.111 percentage correct=86.03%) in overweight and obese boys. Conclusion Triglyceride glucose index, pediatric NAFLD fibrosis index, and triglyceride-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio are a valuable combination of predictive markers of the metabolically unhealthy phenotype in Ukrainian overweight/obese boys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viktoriya Furdela
- Department of Pediatrics No2, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Halyna Pavlyshyn
- Department of Pediatrics No2, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Anna-Mariia Shulhai
- Department of Pediatrics No2, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Kateryna Kozak
- Department of Pediatrics No2, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Mykhailo Furdela
- Department of Pathologic Anatomy, Autopsy Course and Forensic Pathology, I.Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University of the Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Ternopil, Ukraine
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Effects of Maternal Gut Microbiota-Targeted Therapy on the Programming of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Dams and Fetuses, Related to a Prenatal High-Fat Diet. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14194004. [PMID: 36235659 PMCID: PMC9573493 DOI: 10.3390/nu14194004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic disorders can start in utero. Maternal transmission of metabolic phenotypes may increase the risks of adverse metabolic outcomes, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD); effective intervention is essential to prevent this. The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in fat storage, energy metabolism, and NAFLD. We investigated the therapeutic use of probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri and postbiotic butyrate gestation in the prevention of perinatal high-fat diet-induced programmed hepatic steatosis in the offspring of pregnant Sprague–Dawley rats who received regular chow or a high-fat (HF) diet 8 weeks before mating. L. reuteri or sodium butyrate was administered via oral gavage to the gestated rats until their sacrifice on day 21 of gestation. Both treatments improved liver steatosis in pregnant dams; L. reuteri had a superior effect. L. reuteri ameliorated obesity and altered the metabolic profiles of obese gravid dams. Maternal L. reuteri therapy prevented maternal HF diet-induced fetal liver steatosis, and reformed placental remodeling and oxidative injury. Probiotic therapy can restore lipid dysmetabolism in the fetal liver, modulate nutrient-sensing molecules in the placenta, and mediate the short-chain fatty acid signaling cascade. The therapeutic effects of maternal L. reuteri on maternal NAFLD and NAFLD reprogramming in offspring should be validated for further clinical translation.
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Furthner D, Anderwald CH, Bergsten P, Forslund A, Kullberg J, Ahlström H, Manell H, Ciba I, Mangge H, Maruszczak K, Koren P, Schütz S, Brunner SM, Schneider AM, Weghuber D, Mörwald K. Single Point Insulin Sensitivity Estimator in Pediatric Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:830012. [PMID: 35185803 PMCID: PMC8848352 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.830012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Attenuated insulin-sensitivity (IS) is a central feature of pediatric non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We recently developed a new index, single point insulin sensitivity estimator (SPISE), based on triglycerides, high-density-lipoprotein and body-mass-index (BMI), and validated by euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamp-test (EHCT) in adolescents. This study aims to assess the performance of SPISE as an estimation of hepatic insulin (in-)sensitivity. Our results introduce SPISE as a novel and inexpensive index of hepatic insulin resistance, superior to established indices in children and adolescents with obesity. MATERIALS AND METHODS Ninety-nine pubertal subjects with obesity (13.5 ± 2.0 years, 59.6% males, overall mean BMI-SDS + 2.8 ± 0.6) were stratified by MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) into a NAFLD (>5% liver-fat-content; male n=41, female n=16) and non-NAFLD (≤5%; male n=18, female n=24) group. Obesity was defined according to WHO criteria (> 2 BMI-SDS). EHCT were used to determine IS in a subgroup (n=17). Receiver-operating-characteristic (ROC)-curve was performed for diagnostic ability of SPISE, HOMA-IR (homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance), and HIRI (hepatic insulin resistance index), assuming null hypothesis of no difference in area-under-the-curve (AUC) at 0.5. RESULTS SPISE was lower in NAFLD (male: 4.8 ± 1.2, female: 4.5 ± 1.1) than in non-NAFLD group (male 6.0 ± 1.6, female 5.6 ± 1.5; P< 0.05 {95% confidence interval [CI]: male NAFLD 4.5, 5.2; male non-NAFLD 5.2, 6.8; female NAFLD 4.0, 5.1, female non-NAFLD 5.0, 6.2}). In males, ROC-AUC was 0.71 for SPISE (P=0.006, 95% CI: 0.54, 0.87), 0.68 for HOMA-IR (P=0.038, 95% CI: 0.48, 0.88), and 0.50 for HIRI (P=0.543, 95% CI: 0.27, 0.74). In females, ROC-AUC was 0.74 for SPISE (P=0.006), 0.59 for HOMA-IR (P=0.214), and 0.68 for HIRI (P=0.072). The optimal cutoff-level for SPISE between NAFLD and non-NAFLD patients was 5.18 overall (Youden-index: 0.35; sensitivity 0.68%, specificity 0.67%). CONCLUSION SPISE is significantly lower in juvenile patients with obesity-associated NAFLD. Our results suggest that SPISE indicates hepatic IR in pediatric NAFLD patients with sensitivity and specificity superior to established indices of hepatic IR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieter Furthner
- Department of Pediatrics, Salzkammergutklinikum Voecklabruck, Voecklabruck, Austria
- Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Christian-Heinz Anderwald
- Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- Direction, Arnoldstein Healthcare Centre, Arnoldstein, Austria
| | - Peter Bergsten
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anders Forslund
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Joel Kullberg
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Radiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Håkan Ahlström
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Radiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hannes Manell
- Department of Medical Cell Biology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Iris Ciba
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Harald Mangge
- Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnosis, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Katharina Maruszczak
- Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Pia Koren
- Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Sebastian Schütz
- Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Susanne Maria Brunner
- Research Program for Receptor Biochemistry and Tumor Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Anna Maria Schneider
- Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Daniel Weghuber
- Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- *Correspondence: Daniel Weghuber,
| | - Katharina Mörwald
- Obesity Research Unit, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
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Damar Ç, Işık E, Güngör Ş. Relationship between Quantitative Sonographic Measurements and Serum Biochemical Parameters in Childhood Obesity. Pediatr Gastroenterol Hepatol Nutr 2021; 24:470-482. [PMID: 34557399 PMCID: PMC8443855 DOI: 10.5223/pghn.2021.24.5.470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We investigated the relationship between sonographic measurements of fatty liver and body mass index standard deviation score (BMI-Z score), abdominal wall fat thickness (AWFT), and serum biochemical parameters in childhood obesity. METHODS Anthropometric, laboratory, and ultrasonography data were obtained from 174 children with BMI-Z score >1. After the qualitative grading of hepatosteatosis (grades 0-3), the quantitative liver-kidney echogenicity ratio (LKER) was calculated using a software tool. Groups according to sex, age (AG-I to AG-III), BMI-Z score (BMG-I to BMG-III), and hepatosteatosis degree (HS-I and HS-II) were formed. The differences and distributions of the variables were statistically analyzed and compared among the groups. RESULTS Serum transaminase and glucose levels showed a positive correlation with LKER, whereas the HDL level showed a negative correlation. BMI-Z score and AWFT showed a positive correlation with fasting insulin level and HOMA-IR value. LKER was significantly higher in girls than in boys (p=0.008). In the AG-I group (age 3-8.9 years), the BMI-Z score was significantly higher, whereas AWFT was significantly lower than in the other age groups (p<0.001). The cutoff point of LKER for predicting grade 2 or higher steatosis (HS-II group) was determined to be 1.83. Cardiovascular disease risk was significantly higher in the HS-II group (p=0.035). CONCLUSION As a valuable quantitative measurement tool, LKER can be used for the sonographic screening of fatty liver. AWFT, on the basis of its correlation with fasting insulin level and HOMA-IR value, may be a useful sonographic parameter in the management of childhood obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Çağrı Damar
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Emregül Işık
- Clinics of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Gaziantep Children's Hospital, Gaziantep, Turkey
| | - Şükrü Güngör
- Clinics of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University, Kahramanmaraş, Turkey
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Brecelj J, Orel R. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57070719. [PMID: 34357000 PMCID: PMC8304730 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57070719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The prevalence of pediatric non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is increasing. A lot of new data are published regularly. Materials and Methods: Original clinical studies, review articles, and guidelines in children were searched for and the most relevant included in this review. Results: A total of 138 retrieved papers were classified into pathogenesis, epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment. Pathogenesis is currently explained with the “multi hit hypothesis”, with complex interactions of genetic and environmental factors which trigger inflammation in steatotic liver. The prevalence is rising. A diagnosis can be made with laboratory tests, imaging, and liver biopsy after the exclusion of other causes of liver steatosis. The mainstay of treatment is lifestyle modification consisting of dietary intervention and increased physical activity. The progression to liver cirrhosis can occur even in children. Conclusions: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in children is a part of a metabolic syndrome in the majority of patients. Due to its complex etiology and high prevalence, multidisciplinary teams, together with public health professionals, should be involved in its treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jernej Brecelj
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University Children’s Hospital Ljubljana, Bohoriceva 20, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Bohoriceva 20, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +386-1-5229-276
| | - Rok Orel
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, University Children’s Hospital Ljubljana, Bohoriceva 20, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
- Department of Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Bohoriceva 20, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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11
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Putri RR, Casswall T, Hagman E. Prevalence of increased transaminases and its association with sex, age, and metabolic parameters in children and adolescents with obesity - a nationwide cross-sectional cohort study. BMC Pediatr 2021; 21:271. [PMID: 34107897 PMCID: PMC8188660 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-021-02747-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Childhood obesity increases the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease marked by elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT). This study investigated the prevalence of increased ALT in children and adolescents with obesity, and its associations with sex, age, degree of obesity, and metabolic parameters. Methods Individuals between 5 and 17.99 years of age enrolled in the Swedish Childhood Obesity Treatment Register (BORIS) before March 2020 were included. Mildly increased ALT was defined by ALT 27–51 U/L (males) and 23–43 U/L (females), while markedly increased ALT by levels above. Multiple logistic regression models were used for statistical analysis. Results Among 11,776 individuals (age 11.0 ± 3.3 years, 53.5% males), the prevalence of mildly and markedly increased ALT were 37.9 and 10.6%, respectively. A sex-age interaction was found, where increasing age strengthened the odds of markedly increased ALT in males (OR, 99% CI: 1.34, 1.29–1.4 for each year) while the corresponding pattern in females with was minuscule (1.09, 1.02–1.10). Compared to class I obesity, class II and III obesity had greater odds ratios for mildly increased ALT (class II obesity OR, 99% CI: 1.51, 1.35–1.70; class III obesity OR, 99% CI: 2.17, 1.66–2.61) and for markedly increased ALT (class II obesity OR, 99% CI: 1.82, 1.51–2.20; class III obesity OR, 99% CI 3.38, 2.71–4.23). Dyslipidemia was associated with both mildly and markedly increased ALT, all p < 0.001. Prevalence of impaired fasting glucose was 19.1% in normal ALT group, 20.4% in mildly increased ALT group, and 29.0% in markedly increased ALT group. Conclusions The risk of markedly increased ALT increased exponentially with age among boys, but not among girls. Higher degree of obesity was observed in individuals with mildly and markedly increased ALT. Further, metabolic derangements were more prevalent among individuals with mildly and markedly increased ALT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Resthie R Putri
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Blickagången 6A, 141 57 Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thomas Casswall
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Blickagången 6A, 141 57 Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Emilia Hagman
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet, Blickagången 6A, 141 57 Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.
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12
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Bloyd M, Settas N, Faucz FR, Sinaii N, Bathon K, Iben J, Coon S, Caprio S, Stratakis CA, London E. The PRKAR1B p.R115K Variant is Associated with Lipoprotein Profile in African American Youth with Metabolic Challenges. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvab071. [PMID: 34195525 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Context High childhood obesity rates coincide with increased incidence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and other comorbidities. Understanding the genetics of susceptibility to obesity and its comorbidities could guide intervention. The cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)-dependent protein kinase (PKA) signaling pathway regulates energy balance, glucose homeostasis, and lipid metabolism. Objective We hypothesized that PKA-related gene variants may be associated with obesity or associated metabolic conditions. Methods We included 457 youths from the Yale Obesity Clinic into the Pathogenesis of Youth-Onset Diabetes cohort (NCT01967849); a variety of clinical tests were performed to characterize NAFLD. Exon sequencing of 54 PKA pathway genes was performed. Variants were confirmed by Sanger sequencing. Clinical data were analyzed, correcting for NAFLD status and body mass index z-score with adjustments for multiple comparisons. Fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) and PKA enzymatic assays were performed in HEK293 cells transfected with the PRKAR1B p.R115K construct. In silico structural analysis for this variant was done. Results We identified the variant PRKAR1B p.R115K in 4 unrelated, African American patients. Analyses compared this variant group to other African American patients in the cohort. PRKAR1B p.R115K was associated with favorable circulating lipoprotein levels. Analysis of FRET and PKA enzymatic assay showed stronger interaction between the R1β mutant and PKA catalytic subunit Cα and decreased basal PKA activity compared with the wildtype (P < .0001). Structural analysis revealed that p.R115K may hinder conformational changes resulting from cAMP binding at cAMP binding domain A. Conclusion Data suggest PRKAR1B p.R115K affects cAMP signaling and may favorably modulate lipoprotein profile in African American youth, protecting them from some adverse metabolic outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Bloyd
- Section on Endocrinology & Genetics, Program on Developmental Endocrinology & Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Nikolaos Settas
- Section on Endocrinology & Genetics, Program on Developmental Endocrinology & Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Fabio Rueda Faucz
- Section on Endocrinology & Genetics, Program on Developmental Endocrinology & Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Ninet Sinaii
- Biostatistics and Clinical Epidemiology Service, NIH Clinical Center, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Kerstin Bathon
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Bio-Imaging Center, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - James Iben
- Molecular Genomics Core, NICHD, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Steven Coon
- Molecular Genomics Core, NICHD, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Sonia Caprio
- Section on Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06511, USA
| | - Constantine A Stratakis
- Section on Endocrinology & Genetics, Program on Developmental Endocrinology & Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Edra London
- Section on Endocrinology & Genetics, Program on Developmental Endocrinology & Genetics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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13
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From Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) to Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD)-New Terminology in Pediatric Patients as a Step in Good Scientific Direction? J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10050924. [PMID: 33804296 PMCID: PMC7957610 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10050924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease in the world, which predispose to more serious hepatic conditions. It ranges from simple liver steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which may progress to cirrhosis, and even end-stage liver disease. Since obesity became one of the most important health concerns wordwide, a considerable increase in the prevalance of NAFLD and other metabolic implications has been observed, both in adults and children. Due to the coexistence of visceral obesity, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, NAFLD is considered to be the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome (MetS). These relationships between NAFLD and MetS led to the set up in adults of a new term combining both of these conditions, called metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Based on these findings, we propose a set of criteria, which may be useful to diagnose MAFLD in children and adolescents.
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14
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Suri A, Song E, van Nispen J, Voigt M, Armstrong A, Murali V, Jain A. Advances in the Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Pediatric Fatty Liver Disease. Clin Ther 2021; 43:438-454. [PMID: 33597074 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2021.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) is a major contributor to pediatric liver disease. This review evaluated the current literature on prevalence, screening, diagnosis, and management of NAFL in children and explored recent advances in the field of pediatric NAFL. METHODS A PubMed search was performed for manuscripts describing disease burden, diagnosis, and management strategies in pediatric NAFL published within the past 15 years. Systematic reviews, clinical practice guidelines, randomized controlled trials, and cohort and case-control studies were reviewed for the purpose of this article. FINDINGS The prevalence of NAFL in children is increasing. It is a leading cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality in children. Screening and diagnosis of NAFL in children are a challenge. Lifestyle changes and exercise are the cornerstones of the management of NAFL. IMPLICATIONS Further research is needed to develop better screening and diagnostic tools for pediatric NAFL, including noninvasive diagnostics. NAFL therapeutics is another area of much-needed, ongoing research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anandini Suri
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA.
| | - Eric Song
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Johan van Nispen
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Marcus Voigt
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Austin Armstrong
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Vidul Murali
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Ajay Jain
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, St. Louis University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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15
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Sert A. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cardiovascular risk in severely obese adolescents. Acta Diabetol 2021; 58:121-122. [PMID: 32740703 DOI: 10.1007/s00592-020-01578-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ahmet Sert
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Selçuk University Medical School, 42130, Konya, Turkey.
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16
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Scudiero O, Pero R, Ranieri A, Terracciano D, Fimiani F, Cesaro A, Gentile L, Leggiero E, Laneri S, Moscarella E, Mazzaccara C, Frisso G, D'Alicandro G, Limongelli G, Pastore L, Calabrò P, Lombardo B. Childhood obesity: an overview of laboratory medicine, exercise and microbiome. Clin Chem Lab Med 2019; 58:1385-1406. [PMID: 31821163 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2019-0789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In the last few years, a significant increase of childhood obesity incidence unequally distributed within countries and population groups has been observed, thus representing an important public health problem associated with several health and social consequences. Obese children have more than a 50% probability of becoming obese adults, and to develop pathologies typical of obese adults, that include type 2-diabetes, dyslipidemia and hypertension. Also environmental factors, such as reduced physical activity and increased sedentary activities, may also result in increased caloric intake and/or decreased caloric expenditure. In the present review, we aimed to identify and describe a specific panel of parameters in order to evaluate and characterize the childhood obesity status useful in setting up a preventive diagnostic approach directed at improving health-related behaviors and identifying predisposing risk factors. An early identification of risk factors for childhood obesity could definitely help in setting up adequate and specific clinical treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Scudiero
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy.,CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy
| | - Raffaela Pero
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Annaluisa Ranieri
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy.,CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy
| | - Daniela Terracciano
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università degli Studi di Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Fabio Fimiani
- Divisione di Cardiologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Cardiotoraciche e Respiratorie, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | - Arturo Cesaro
- Divisione di Cardiologia, Dipartimento di Scienze Cardiotoraciche e Respiratorie, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy
| | | | | | - Sonia Laneri
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Moscarella
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.,Unità di Cardiologia, Ospedale "Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano", Caserta, Italy
| | - Cristina Mazzaccara
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy.,CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy
| | - Giulia Frisso
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy.,CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni D'Alicandro
- Centro di Medicina dello Sport e delle Disabilità, Dipartimento di Neuroscienze e Riabilitazione, AORN, Santobono-Pausillipon, Naples, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Limongelli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy
| | - Lucio Pastore
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy.,CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy
| | - Paolo Calabrò
- Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche Traslazionali, Università della Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Caserta, Italy.,Unità di Cardiologia, Ospedale "Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano", Caserta, Italy
| | - Barbara Lombardo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Molecolare e Biotecnologie Mediche, Università degli Studi di Naples "Federico II", Napoli, Italy.,CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Naples, Italy
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