Longitudinal Associations Between MicroRNAs and Weight in the Diabetes Prevention Program

Area of Science:

• Biomarkers and Disease Etiology
• Genetics and Epigenetics in Metabolic Health

Background:

• Cross-sectional studies link circulating microRNAs to overweight and obesity.
• Limited data exists on microRNAs as prodromal risk indicators versus disease markers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the longitudinal relationships between circulating microRNAs and body weight.
• To investigate microRNA associations with weight changes over time in a clinical trial setting.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of plasma microRNAs from 150 participants in the Diabetes Prevention Program trial.
• Utilized generalized linear mixed models and logistic regression for longitudinal and 2-year weight change analyses.
• MicroRNA quantification performed using a Fireplex Assay.

Main Results:

• Seven microRNAs (miR-126, miR-15a, miR-192, miR-23a, miR-27a, miR-197, miR-320a) were significantly associated with weight over 2 years.
• Specific baseline microRNAs (let-7f, miR-17, miR-320c) predicted significant weight loss after 2 years.

Conclusions:

• This study provides evidence for longitudinal associations between circulating microRNAs and weight.
• MicroRNAs may reflect genetic and behavioral influences, offering insights into obesity etiology.
• Further research is needed to validate microRNA biomarkers for weight management and disease prevention.