Adiponectin and visfatin concentrations in children treated with valproic acid

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Updated: Jul 9, 2026

Expansion and Adipogenesis Induction of Adipocyte Progenitors from Perivascular Adipose Tissue Isolated by Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting
08:28

Expansion and Adipogenesis Induction of Adipocyte Progenitors from Perivascular Adipose Tissue Isolated by Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting

Published on: June 30, 2017

Markus Rauchenzauner1, Edda Haberlandt, Sabine Scholl-Bürgi

  • 1Department of Paediatrics IV, Division of Neuropediatrics, Medical University Innsbruck, Austria. markus_rauchenzauner@hotmail.com

Epilepsia
|December 12, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Valproic acid therapy in children is linked to weight gain and insulin issues. This study found lower adiponectin and higher leptin levels, suggesting these adipocytokines may regulate metabolism during treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Metabolic disorders
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Chronic antiepileptic drug valproic acid (VPA) therapy is associated with weight gain and insulin resistance.
  • The exact mechanisms behind these metabolic alterations remain unclear.
  • Adipocytokines are recognized as key mediators in glucose and fat metabolism.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of specific adipocytokines in VPA-associated metabolic changes in children.
  • To determine if adiponectin, leptin, and visfatin concentrations correlate with VPA-induced overweight and insulin resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Blood samples were collected from children undergoing chronic VPA therapy.
  • Concentrations of adiponectin, leptin, and visfatin were measured.
  • Correlations between adipocytokine levels, body weight, and insulin resistance markers were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Children on VPA therapy exhibited significantly lower adiponectin levels.
  • Leptin concentrations were found to be higher in children receiving VPA.
  • No significant correlation was observed between visfatin levels and VPA-associated metabolic alterations.

Conclusions:

  • Adiponectin and leptin may play a significant role in the pathophysiology of VPA-induced weight gain and insulin resistance in children.
  • Visfatin does not appear to be involved in these metabolic disturbances.
  • Targeting adiponectin and leptin pathways could offer therapeutic strategies for managing VPA side effects.

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