ASSOCIATION OF NESFATIN-1 AND INSULIN RESISTANCE IN OBESE ADOLESCENTS OF IRAQ POPULATION.

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Research
• Adolescent Health

Background:

• Nesfatin-1 is implicated in regulating body weight, appetite, and insulin release.
• Obesity in adolescents is a growing concern, increasing the risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus.
• Understanding factors contributing to adolescent obesity and insulin resistance is crucial for preventative strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare serum Nesfatin-1 levels in obese Iraqi adolescents with controls.
• To investigate the association between Nesfatin-1 levels and insulin resistance in this population.
• To explore potential links between Nesfatin-1, obesity, and the risk of developing diabetes mellitus.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 90 participants (60 obese adolescents, 30 controls).
• Measurement of serum glucose, insulin, glycated hemoglobin, and Nesfatin-1 using ELISA kits.
• Calculation of insulin resistance and assessment of lipid profiles and body mass index.

Main Results:

• Obese adolescents exhibited significantly lower serum Nesfatin-1 levels compared to controls (1.22±0.39 vs 2.54±0.64 ng/ml, P=0.001).
• The obese group demonstrated significantly lower insulin sensitivity than the non-obese group.
• Serum Nesfatin-1 showed a negative association with insulin sensitivity, lipid profile, and body mass index.

Conclusions:

• Serum Nesfatin-1 levels are significantly lower in obese adolescents and negatively correlate with insulin sensitivity and BMI.
• Reduced Nesfatin-1 may be a contributing factor to obesity and insulin resistance in adolescents.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the role of Nesfatin-1 in the pathogenesis of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus.