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Updated: Feb 18, 2026

Mouse Adipose Tissue Collection and Processing for RNA Analysis
Published on: January 31, 2018
IGF-1R mRNA expression is increased in obese children
Rafaela Cristina Ricco1, Rubens Garcia Ricco1, Mariangela Carletti Queluz2
1Department of Paediatrics, Ribeirão Preto Medical School, University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
Obese children exhibit higher insulin-like growth factor type 1 receptor (IGF-IR) mRNA expression and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I) levels, suggesting increased IGF-I bioactivity contributes to their taller stature.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Obesity in children is often associated with increased height compared to peers.
- Previous studies on growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I) in obese individuals have yielded conflicting results.
- Understanding the role of IGF-I signaling in childhood obesity is crucial for explaining growth patterns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate insulin-like growth factor type 1 receptor (IGF-IR) mRNA expression in obese children.
- To correlate IGF-IR expression with other growth-related factors in obese pediatric subjects.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of IGF-IR mRNA expression in lymphocytes from 29 obese and 18 control pre-pubertal children.
- Measurement of serum concentrations of IGF-I, IGF binding protein 3 (IGFBP-3), IGF binding protein 1 (IGFBP-1), and IGF binding protein acid labile subunit (ALS).
- Assessment of insulin levels and HOMA-IR index in both groups.
Main Results:
- Obese children showed significantly higher IGF-IR mRNA expression compared to controls (P=0.025).
- Elevated serum IGF-I and ALS concentrations were observed in obese children, alongside lower IGFBP-1 levels.
- Obese children had higher insulin levels and HOMA-IR index, indicating insulin resistance.
Conclusions:
- Increased IGF-IR mRNA expression in obese children suggests a heightened IGF-I signaling pathway.
- The combination of higher IGF-I and ALS, with lower IGFBP-1, points to increased IGF-I bioactivity.
- This enhanced IGF-I bioactivity may explain the increased stature observed in obese children.
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