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Summary
Plasma levels of immunoreactive glucagon (IRG) fractions were analyzed in obese versus normal-weight individuals. Obese patients showed elevated IRG3500 levels, especially those with impaired glucose tolerance, suggesting this fraction is a key indicator.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Research
- Obesity Studies
Background:
- Conflicting reports exist regarding plasma total immunoreactive glucagon (IRG) levels in obesity.
- Understanding specific IRG fractions is crucial for accurate assessment in obese individuals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare individual IRG fractions in grossly obese patients versus normal-weight subjects.
- To determine if specific IRG fractions correlate with glucose tolerance status in obesity.
Main Methods:
- Gel filtration was used to separate and quantify different IRG fractions in plasma.
- Plasma samples were collected from 16 grossly obese patients (BMI 40 +/- 2) and 18 normal-weight subjects.
Main Results:
- Mean total IRG was significantly higher in obese subjects (190 +/- 15 pg/ml) compared to normal subjects (142 +/- 12 pg/ml).
- IRG3500 levels were significantly elevated in obese subjects (34 +/- 5 pg/ml) versus normal subjects (16 +/- 2 pg/ml).
- Obese patients with impaired glucose tolerance exhibited the highest IRG3500 levels (42 +/- 12 pg/ml).
Conclusions:
- Plasma IRG3500 levels are elevated in grossly obese patients.
- The elevation in IRG3500 is particularly pronounced in obese individuals with impaired glucose tolerance.
- Measuring total IRG may mask the significant changes observed in specific IRG fractions like IRG3500 in obesity.