Prospective changes in lipocalin-2 and adipocytokines among adults with obesity

Obesity is a significant health concern which can lead to chronic conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. We investigated the impact of obesity on the levels of circulating serum Lipocalin-2 and adipocytokines. A total of 80 consenting participants (50% females) aged 18-60 were enrolled and divided into standard (Group 1) and obese (Group 2) based on their height, weight, age, and body mass index. Changes in LCN-2, adipokines, and inflammatory markers in adults with obesity who took part in a 12-month lifestyle modification program were monitored. The study found that in normal-weight follow-up participants, LCN-2 was positively associated with resistin (R = 0.69, P < 0.001). In the obese group (N = 41), the circulating LCN-2 concentration was positively correlated with the resistin (R = 0.87, P < 0.001) and adiponectin (R = 0.54, P = 0.001). This study highlights the strong associations between circulating LCN-2 and key adipocytokines, particularly in individuals with obesity, underscoring the biomarker's potential role in metabolic dysregulation. The study emphasizes the need for customized interventions and individualized healthcare approaches considering the heterogenous effects of obesity.