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Changes in circulating microRNAs are associated with childhood obesity
Anna Prats-Puig1, Francisco J Ortega, Josep M Mercader
1MD, PhD, Section of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Nutrition. Hospital "Dr Josep Trueta" of Girona, Carretera de França s/n, 17007 Girona, Spain. jmfreal@idibgi.org.
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|August 10, 2013
Summary
Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are altered in childhood obesity, potentially aiding early detection of metabolic issues. This study identified specific miRNA patterns linked to obesity in children, offering a promising diagnostic strategy.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Genetics
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are recognized biomarkers for metabolic diseases.
- miRNAs also represent potential therapeutic targets in metabolic disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the circulating miRNA profile in prepubertal obese children.
- To investigate the association of circulating miRNAs with obesity metrics and metabolic parameters.
Main Methods:
- Genome-wide miRNA profiling using RT-PCR in a small cohort.
- Cross-sectional validation in a larger group of lean and obese children.
- Longitudinal evaluation of miRNA changes over a 3-year period.
Main Results:
- Fifteen circulating miRNAs were significantly deregulated in prepubertal obesity.
- Specific miRNAs (e.g., decreased miR-221, increased miR-486-5p) showed significant associations with BMI, fat mass, and insulin resistance.
- Plasma concentrations of 10 miRNAs changed significantly during the follow-up period, correlating with weight changes.
Conclusions:
- This study presents the first evidence of circulating miRNA deregulation in prepubertal obese children.
- An abnormal circulating miRNA profile may serve as a promising early detection strategy for metabolic abnormalities in obese children.
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