Serum FGF-21 and FGF-23 in association with gestational diabetes: a longitudinal case-control study

Background Fibroblast growth factors (FGFs); FGF-21 and FGF-23, have been proposed to be associated with metabolic syndrome. However, data on the role of these peptides in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are limited. Therefore, this study was designed to assess the association of serum FGF-21 and FGF-23 with the risk of GDM. Furthermore, we evaluated the circulation of these peptides in pregnancy and post-puerperium. Materials and methods Fifty-three pregnant subjects with GDM and 43 normal glucose tolerance (NGT) pregnant women participated in this study. Serum FGF-21 and FGF-23 were measured during pregnancy and post-puerperium. Results FGF-21 and FGF-23 were low in GDM compared to NGT during pregnancy. There were no significant differences in the level of these peptides post-puerperium. Using logistic regression, FGF-23 [odds ratio (OR) 0.70 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.50-0.96)] was inversely associated with GDM, so a 1-μg/mL decrease in FGF-23 levels was associated with a 1.4-fold increased risk of developing GDM and this remained statistically significant after adjustment for confounders [adjusted OR (aOR) 0.70 (95% CI: 0.50-0.98)]. There was no association of FGF-21 with the development of GDM risk. Conclusions Lower FGF-23 concentrations could be involved in the pathophysiology of GDM. FGF-21, even though associated with metabolic risk factors in pregnancy, may not be a fundamental factor in GDM.