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Leptin concentrations and insulin sensitivity in normoglycemic men
S M Haffner1, H Miettinen, L Mykkänen
1Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio 78284-7873, USA.
Summary
In relatively lean men, higher leptin levels correlate with decreased insulin sensitivity, suggesting a link between insulin resistance and leptin resistance independent of body mass index.
Area of Science:
- Metabolic Research
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Leptin, a key weight-regulating hormone, is elevated in obesity, hinting at leptin resistance.
- Variability in leptin levels suggests environmental and genetic influences beyond adiposity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between insulin sensitivity and leptin levels in normoglycemic men.
- To determine if decreased insulin sensitivity is associated with increased leptin concentrations.
Main Methods:
- Serum leptin levels measured via radioimmunoassay.
- Insulin sensitivity assessed using hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp with indirect calorimetry.
- Study involved 87 normoglycemic, relatively lean men.
Main Results:
- Leptin levels significantly correlated with fasting insulin and glucose disposal metrics (P < 0.001).
- Associations persisted after adjusting for body mass index, though diminished.
- Leptin levels related to insulin sensitivity across varying degrees of obesity.
Conclusions:
- Leptin concentrations are linked to insulin resistance and insulin levels in lean men.
- These associations are partly independent of body mass index.
- Individuals with insulin resistance may exhibit reduced sensitivity to leptin's effects.