Association of nesfatin-1 level with body composition, dietary intake and resting metabolic rate in obese and morbid obese subjects

Does NUCB2/Nesfatin-1 Influence Eating Behaviors in Obese Patients with Binge Eating Disorder? Toward a Neurobiological Pathway

Nesfatin-1 is a new anorexigenic neuropeptide involved in the regulation of hunger/satiety, eating, and affective disorders. We aimed to investigate nesfatin-1 secretion in vitro, in murine adipose cells, and in human adipose fat samples, as well as to assess the link between circulating nesfatin-1 levels, NUCB2 and Fat Mass and Obesity Gene (FTO) polymorphisms, BMI, Eating Disorders (EDs), and pathological behaviors. Nesfatin-1 secretion was evaluated both in normoxic fully differentiated 3T3-L1 mouse adipocytes and after incubation under hypoxic conditions for 24 h. Omental Visceral Adipose tissue (VAT) specimens of 11 obese subjects, and nesfatin-1 serum levels' evaluation, eating behaviors, NUCB2 rs757081, and FTO rs9939609 polymorphisms of 71 outpatients seeking treatment for EDs with different Body Mass Index (BMI) were studied. Significantly higher levels of nesfatin-1 were detected in hypoxic 3T3-L1 cultured adipocytes compared to normoxic ones. Nesfatin-1 was highly detectable in the VAT of obese compared to normal-weight subjects. Nesfatin-1 serum levels did not vary according to BMI, sex, and EDs diagnosis, but correlations with grazing; emotional, sweet, and binge eating; hyperphagia; social eating; childhood obesity were evident. Obese subjects with CG genotype NUCB2 rs757081 and AT genotype FTO rs9939609 polymorphisms had higher nesfatin-1 levels. It could represent a new biomarker of EDs comorbidity among obese patients.

The relationship between dietary phytochemical index and resting metabolic rate mediated by inflammatory factors in overweight and obese women: a cross-sectional study

Background

Unhealthy dietary patterns are the most important modifiable risk factors for obesity and overweight. This study aimed to examine the relationship between Dietary Phytochemical Index (DPI) and resting metabolic rate (RMR), mediated by inflammatory factors, in overweight and obese women.

Methods

A total of 404 women, aged 18–48 years, were included in the cross-sectional study. DPI was calculated using the 147-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Anthropometric measurements, RMR, and blood biomarkers were assessed using standard protocols.

Results

There was marginally significant association between adherence to DPI and RMR status in the crude model (OR = 1.41, 95% CI 0.94–2.11, P = 0.09). After adjusting for potential confounders, a significant association was seen between the DPI and increase RMR.per.kg (OR = 2.77, 95% CI 0.98–7.82, P = 0.05). Our results indicated that plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), transforming growth factor (TGF-β), and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) had a mediatory effect on the association between RMR and DPI (P > 0.05). Indeed, it was shown that, PAI-1, TGF-β, and MCP-1 destroyed the significance of this association and could be considered as mediating markers. However, no mediating effect was observed for high-sensitivity C reactive protein (hs-CRP).

Conclusions

Adherence to DPI can improve the RMR by reducing levels of inflammatory markers, and may be considered as a treatment for obesity. However, more long-term studies are recommended.

Zinc Supplementation Improved Neuropeptide Y, Nesfatin-1, Leptin, C-reactive protein, and HOMA-IR of Diet-Induced Obese Rats

Obesity is a mild chronic inflammation that causes many metabolic diseases. It was aimed to investigate some parameters affective on the energy metabolism by adding zinc (Zn, ZnSO4) to drinking water of diet-induced obese rats. Five-week aged, male Sprague Dawley rats divided into as control group, consuming standard rat diet, and high-fat diet (HFD) group. After obesity induced by feeding HFD for 8 weeks, the obese rats were divided into Zn-supplemented obese group (HFD + obese + Zn; 150 mg Zn/L (for 6 weeks), 235 mg Zn/L (7th week), 250 mg Zn/L (8th week) in drinking water) and obese group (HFD + obese). Mean body weight, serum concentrations of C-reactive protein, neuropeptide-Y, leptin, insulin fasting blood glucose, and HOMA-IR were statistically decreased by given Zn in HFD + obese + Zn group compared to HFD + obese rats. It was observed that the total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL cholesterol levels of HFD + obese + Zn group became closer to the control group level, and Zn supplementation caused a statistically significant decrease in cholesterol profile than HFD + obese rats. Also, increased mean serum nesfatin-1 level, an effective protein for the formation of satiety, was analyzed in HFD + obese + Zn group when compared to HFD + obese ones. Serum triglyceride concentration tended to decrease with the effect of Zn in obese rats. In conclusion, it can be said that oral use of Zn could improve energy balance and prevent the occurrence of metabolic diseases related to obesity depending on the anti-inflammatory effect of Zn.

The Intestinal Dysbiosis of Mothers with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and Its Impact on the Gut Microbiota of Their Newborns

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is defined as “diagnosed as impaired glucose tolerance for the first time during pregnancy,” which can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes and produces divergent effects on mothers and newborns. In recent years, with the continuous expansion of obese people, GDM shows an upward trend. The abundant and diverse members of the human gut microbiota exert critical roles in the maintenance of human health. Studies have shown that GDM may be associated with disordered gut microbiota in both mothers and newborns. Taking into account the potential effects on maternal and consequently neonatal health, in this review, we analyzed the available data and discussed the current knowledge about the potential relationship between GDM and intestinal dysbiosis in mothers and newborns. In addition, we also discussed the influencing factors derived from GDM mothers on the gut microbiome of their newborns, including the vertical transmission of microbiota from mothers, the alteration of milk components of GDM mothers, and using of probiotics. Hoping that new insights into the role of the gut microbiota in GDM could lead to the development of integrated strategies to prevent and treat these metabolic disorders.

The effects of spirulina under high-intensity interval training on levels of nesfatin-1, omentin-1, and lipid profiles in overweight and obese females: A randomized, controlled, single-blind trial

BACKGROUND

We investigated the effects of spirulina under high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on levels of nesfatin-1, omentin-1, and lipid profiles in overweight and obese females.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a randomized, quasi-experimental controlled, single-blind with a pre- and post-test design, in which twenty overweight and obese women (body mass index = 29.32 ± 3.01 kg/m², age = 21.55 ± 1.76 years), were randomly divided into the following groups: HIIT + spirulina (n = 10) and HIIT + placebo (n = 10). Running anaerobic sprint test was used for HIIT protocol consisting of six intervals at 35 m maximal speed runs, with a rest of 10 s in each trial (3 times/week, 4 weeks). HIIT + spirulina group received 500 mg of the spirulina pills twice daily for 4 weeks and the second group took placebo.

RESULTS

There was a significant increase in serum levels of nesfatin-1 in HIIT + spirulina (P < 0.0001) but not in HIIT + placebo (P = 0.61) group. Furthermore, results indicated a significant difference between two groups with respect to serum levels of nesfatin-1 (P = 0.04). Serum levels of omentin-1 significantly increased in both groups (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between two groups (P = 0.49). In addition, results showed no significant inter- and intra-group differences in total cholesterol levels, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol between groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The spirulina under HIIT increased levels of nesfatin-1 and omentin-1 with no effects on the levels of lipid profiles in overweight and obese females.

Probiotics have minimal effects on appetite-related hormones in overweight or obese individuals: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Overweight and obese individuals show changes in mechanisms related to appetite due to several factors, including excess fat and gut microbiota imbalance. Probiotics have been presented as a strategy for modulating gut microbiota and regulating these mechanisms. The aim of this systematic review was to assess the effects of probiotics on appetite-related hormones in overweight or obese individuals.

METHODS

A systematic review of randomized controlled trials was performed in nine electronic databases (Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses, PsycINFO, WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, ClinicalTrials.gov and Open Grey) and in a manual search of studies until March 20, 2020. The risk of bias of each study was appraised using the RoB 2.0 tool. All research stages were carefully based on PRISMA recommendations.

RESULTS

Twenty-four studies (1587 participants) were included in this systematic review. The outcomes related to appetite assessed in the included studies were: leptin, insulin, adiponectin, resistin, nesfatin-1, adropin, omentin-1, GLP-1, GLP-2 and glucagon. Compared to the control group after supplementation, four studies involving 272 participants reported statistically significant reduction in fasting insulin. On the other hand, one study involving 56 participants reported statistically significant increase in adropin and omentin-1.

CONCLUSIONS

Probiotics have minimal effects on appetite-related hormones in overweight or obese individuals. However, knowledge in this area is progressing and further studies with a low risk of bias may help to clarify the role of probiotics in appetite control.

Metabolic and clinical responses to Bunium Persicum (black caraway) supplementation in overweight and obese patients with type 2 diabetes: a double-blind, randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial

Background

Diabetes mellitus is the most common metabolic disorder worldwide. We aimed to determine the metabolic and clinical responses to Bunium Persicum (Black Caraway) supplementation in overweight and obese patients with T2DM.

Methods

Participant recruitment took place in the diabetic clinic of Bu-Ali hospital in Zahedan. Due to the eligibility criteria, 60 participants were randomly placed into two groups, namely placebo (n = 30) and BP (n = 30). The supplementation was considered one 1000 mg capsule 2 times /day BP by meals (lunch and dinner) for 8 weeks. Physical activity levels, dietary intakes, anthropometric measurements [weight, height, and waist circumference], glycemic indices [fasting blood glucose (FBG) and insulin (FBI)], blood lipids [triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c)], and serum nesfatin-1 level were determined. Homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), Quantitative insulin sensitivity checks index (QUICKI), and Body Mass Index (BMI) were computed.

Results

In comparison with placebo, BP significantly decreased FBG, HOMA-IR, and BMI (P <  0.05). The differences in the FBI, QUICKI, TG, TC, LDL, HDL, WC, and Nesfatin-1 were not significant (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

BP supplementation improved serum glucose indices and BMI among overweight and obese T2DM patients. Further trials are needed to confirm results.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT), IRCT20181207041876N1, Registered 18/01/2019, https://irct.ir/trial/35752

Effects of Probiotic Yogurt on Serum Omentin-1, Adropin, and Nesfatin-1 Concentrations in Overweight and Obese Participants Under Low-Calorie Diet

Data on the effects of probiotics on adipokines such as omentin-1, nesfatin-1, and adropin are limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of probiotic yogurt along with a low-calorie diet (LCD) on serum omentin-1, adropin, and nesfatin-1 concentrations in obese and overweight individuals. Sixty obese or overweight individuals aged 20-50 years old were involved in this randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Participants were randomly allocated into two groups to consume either probiotic yogurt containing Lactobacillus acidophilus La5, Bifidobacterium BB12, and Lactobacillus casei DN001 (10⁸ CFU/g each) (n = 30) or regular yogurt (n = 30) along with a LCD in both groups for 8 weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken at baseline and after the 8-week intervention to determine related variables. A significant decrease in body fat percentage was observed in the probiotic group compared with the regular group after 8 weeks (- 1.51 ± 069 vs - 0.88 ± 0.68%, P = 0.002). After the 8-week intervention, a significant difference in serum adropin concentration (6.04 ± 24.46 vs - 8.16 ± 24.66 pg/ml, P = 0.03 and serum omentin-1 concentration (0.09 ± 1.51 vs - 1.5 ± 1.8 ng/ml, P = 0.003) was observed between two groups. We did not observe any significant changes in nesfatin-1 and other anthropometric measures. Overall, probiotic yogurt for 8 weeks among overweight or obese individuals along with LCD had beneficial effects on body fat percentage, serum omentin-1, and adropin concentration, but it did not have any effect on nesfatin-1 level.

Increased hip circumference in individuals with metabolic syndrome affects serum nesfatin-1 levels

Background

This case–control study was conducted to investigate the relationship between serum nesfatin-1 levels and nutritional status and blood parameters in patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome.

Methods

Thirty patients (case) diagnosed with metabolic syndrome according to National Cholesterol Education Program-Adult Treatment Panel III criteria were included. Thirty healthy subjects (control) matched with patients with metabolic syndrome in terms of age, gender and body mass index were included. Three-day food consumption records were obtained. Anthropometric indices were measured and body composition was determined by bioelectrical impedance method. Biochemical parameters and serum nesfatin-1 levels were measured after 8 hours of fasting.

Results

Serum nesfatin-1 levels were 0.245±0.272 ng/mL in the case group and 0.528±0.987 ng/mL in the control group (p>0.05). There was a positive significant correlation between serum nesfatin-1 levels and body weight, waist and hip circumferences in the case group (p<0.05). Each unit increase in hip circumference measurement affects the levels of nesfatin by 0.014 times. In the control group, there was a positive significant correlation between body weight and serum nesfatin-1 levels (p<0.05). A significant correlation was detected between HbA1c and serum nesfatin-1 levels in the case group (p<0.05). A significant relationship was detected between dietary fibre intake and the serum nesfatin-1 levels in the case group (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Anthropometric indices and blood parameters were correlated with serum nesfatin-1 levels in patients with metabolic syndrome. More clinical trials may be performed to establish the relationship between serum nesfatin-1 levels and nutritional status.

Sex-specific association of plasma nesfatin-1 concentrations with obesity in children

BACKGROUND

Nesfatin-1, an anorexigenic peptide, has been associated with food intake and thermogenesis, with discordant findings in humans and scarce studies in children to date.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship of obesity with nesfatin-1 levels in two cohorts of children.

METHODS

Plasma nesfatin-1 concentrations were analyzed in 6- to 9-year-olds (n = 140) and 12- to 16-year-old children (n = 96), including children with obesity and their sex- and age-matched normal-weight counterparts. Anthropometric measurements were assessed. Cholesterol and triglycerides were determined enzymatically, insulin concentrations were measured by radioimmunoassay using a commercial kit and nesfatin-1, leptin and hs-CRP concentrations were determined using commercial ELISA kits.

RESULTS

Nesfatin-1 concentrations were significantly lower in younger (P = .001) and older (P = .009) girls with obesity than in their normal-weight counterparts, without showing significant differences in boys. Nesfatin-1 showed a negative significant (P < .010) correlation with weight and BMI in girls but not in boys. A significant positive correlation of nesfatin-1 levels with insulin, HOMA, and leptin levels appears in girls after adjusting by age and BMI. A significant positive correlation (P = .003) was observed between nesfatin-1 and fat mass in older children.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study shows lower concentrations of nesfatin-1 related to obesity in girls but not in boys at two different ages. The existence of a sex-specific association between nesfatin-1 concentrations and presence of obesity highlights the need of an analysis by gender of the relationship of nesfatin-1 with obesity.

Whey Protein Supplementation Compared to Collagen Increases Blood Nesfatin Concentrations and Decreases Android Fat in Overweight Women: A Randomized Double-Blind Study

Protein supplements are usually used to control body weight, however, the impact of protein quality on body fat attenuation is unknown. We investigated the effects of isocaloric isoproteic supplementation of either whey protein (WG) or hydrolysed collagen supplementation (CG) on dietary intake, adiposity and biochemical markers in overweight women. Methods: In this randomized double-blind study, 37 women, [mean ± SE, age 40.6 ± 1.7 year; BMI (kg/m²) 30.9 ± 0.6], consumed sachets containing 40 g/day of concentrated whey protein (25 g total protein, 2.4 leucine, 1.0 valine, 1.5 isoleucine, n = 17) or 38 g/day of hydrolysed collagen (26 g total protein, 1.02 leucine, 0.91 valine, 0.53 isoleucine, n = 20) in the afternoon snack. The compliance was set at >70% of the total theoretical doses. The dietary intake was evaluated by a 6-day food record questionnaire. At the beginning and after eight weeks of follow-up, body composition was evaluated by using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and lipid profile, insulin resistance, C-reactive protein, adiponectin, leptin and nesfastin plasma concentrations were analyzed. Results: Supplements were isocaloric and isoproteic. There were no differences in caloric intake (p = 0.103), protein (p = 0.085), carbohydrate (p = 0.797) and lipids (p = 0.109) intakes. The branched chain amino acids (BCAA) (GC: 1.8 ± 0.1 g vs. WG: 5.5 ± 0.3 g, p < 0.001) and leucine intake (CG: 0.1 ± 0.1 g vs. WG: 2.6 ± 0.1 g, p < 0.001) were higher in WG compared to CG. BMI increased in the CG (0.2 ± 1.1 kg/m², p = 0.044) but did not change in WG. WG decreased the android fat (−0.1 ± 0.3 kg, p = 0.031) and increased nesfatin concentrations (4.9 ± 3.2 ng/mL, p = 0.014) compared to CG. Conclusions: Whey protein supplementation in overweight women increased nesfatin concentrations and could promote increase of resting metabolic rate as part of body composition improvement programs compared to collagen supplementation for 8 weeks. Additionally, our findings suggest that collagen may not be an effective supplement for overweight women who are attempting to alter body composition.

Nesfatin-1: A novel regulatory peptide associated with acute myocardial infarction and Mediterranean diet

We evaluated the relationship between nesfatin-1 and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) and Mediterranean diet scores. 67 patients with AMI and 33 patients with normal coronary arteries (control group) were included in the study. The patients with AMI were divided into 2 groups based on low (<32) (n = 33) and high values of the synergy between percutaneous coronary intervention with Taxus and cardiac surgery (SYNTAX) scores (≥34) (n = 35). Mediterranean diet score, serum nesfatin-1 concentrations and all other data were compared between the groups. Serum nesfatin-1 concentrations were significantly lower in 67 AMI patients (both the high and low SYNTAX groups) than in the control group (p < 0.001). Moreover, serum nesfatin-1 concentrations were lower in the high SYNTAX group than those in the low SYNTAX group (p < 0.001). There were positive correlations between the serum nesfatin-1 concentrations and Mediterranean diet scores in both the AMI patients and the control subjects, and there was a negative correlation between the serum nesfatin-1 concentrations and SYNTAX scores in the AMI patients. This study has shown that serum nesfatin-1 concentrations are closely related to the severity of AMI and Mediterranean diet scores.

The association between resting metabolic rate and metabolic syndrome May Be mediated by adipokines in overweight and obese women

AIMS

Adipokines play a major role in developing metabolic syndrome (MetS), and it has been found that there is a significant relationship between MetS and resting metabolic rate (RMR) in obese people. The present study aimed to investigate the mediatory effect of adipokines on the RMR-MetS relationship.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 263 obese and overweight women, mean BMI 33.28 (4.93) kg/m, and mean age 39.02 (11.60) who were assessed for RMR using indirect calorimetry. Moreover, using the body composition analyzer the Body composition was measured. Also, Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) test provided a quantitative measurement of biochemical parameters.

RESULTS

The results indicated that women in low RMR group had higher fat mass (P < 0.0001), FFM (P = 0.002), weight (P = 0.006), BMI (P < 0.0001), age (P = 0.01), and hs-CRP (P = 0.001). The results did not confirm any significant mediating roles for RBP4 (P = 0.051, β = -0.28) and Vaspin (P = 0.06, β = 0.32) in the RMR-MetS relationship. Additionally, after a binary regression test, Omentin-1 showed a significant mediating role (P = 0.25, β = 0.04) as an interrelated agent to RMR and MetS.

CONCLUSION

As this study shows, Omentin-1 was found to play a significant mediating role as a mediatory agent in relationship between RMR and MetS.

Effects of upper-body resistance exercise training on serum nesfatin-1 level, insulin resistance, and body composition in obese paraplegic men

BACKGROUND

As a recently discovered adipokine, nesfatin-1 is conducive to insulin sensitivity, lipid profile, energy balance, and probably obesity.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of upper-body resistance exercise training (RET) on nesfatin-1 levels, insulin resistance, lipid profile, and body composition in obese paraplegic men.

METHODS

Twenty obese paraplegic men were randomly assigned into control and upper-body RET groups. Upper-body RET was performed for 8 weeks, 3 sessions per week at an intensity corresponding to 60-80% maximum amount of force that can be generated in one maximal contraction in 5 stations (bench press, seated rows, sitting lat pulldown, arm extension, and arm curls). Body fat percentage was determined according to 4-sites skinfold protocol of Durnin and Womersley and Siri equation. Obesity for spinal cord injury patients in the current study was set at BMI >22 kg/m². Data were statistically analyzed by paired and independent t-test (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

We found significant improvements in serum levels of nesfatin-1 (21.13%), insulin sensitivity (8.95%), and high-density lipoprotein (10.87%). Other lipid profile markers, i.e. low-density lipoprotein (4.32%), cholesterol (8.20%), and triglyceride (15.10%) reduced significantly after upper-body RET. Moreover, upper-body RET led to a significant reduction in body mass index (2.36%), body fat percentage (2.79%), and waist-to-hip ratio (2.40%).

CONCLUSION

Upper-body RET improved insulin sensitivity, lipid profile, and body composition in paraplegic men. Serum nefastin-1 may be a potential marker of success in weight management in this population.

Nesfatin-1 promotes VSMC migration and neointimal hyperplasia by upregulating matrix metalloproteinases and downregulating PPARγ

The dedifferentiation, proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) are essential in the progression of hypertension, atherosclerosis and intimal hyperplasia. Nesfatin-1 is a potential modulator in cardiovascular functions. However, the role of nesfatin-1 in VSMC biology has not been explored. The present study was designed to determine the regulatory role of nesfatin-1 in VSMC proliferation, migration and intimal hyperplasia after vascular injury. Herein, we demonstrated that nesfatin-1 promoted VSMC phenotype switch from a contractile to a synthetic state, stimulated VSMC proliferation and migration in vitro. At the molecular level, nesfatin-1 upregulated the protein and mRNA levels, as well as the promoter activities of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9, but downregulated peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) levels and promoter activity in VSMCs. Blockade of MMP-2/9 or activation of PPARγ prevented the nesfatin-1-induced VSMC proliferation and migration. In vivo, knockdown of nesfatin-1 ameliorated neointima formation following rat carotid injury. Taken together, our results indicated that nesfatin-1 stimulated VSMC proliferation, migration and neointimal hyperplasia by elevating MMP2/MMP-9 levels and inhibiting PPARγ gene expression.

Postnatal Prevention of Childhood Obesity in Offspring Prenatally Exposed to Gestational Diabetes mellitus: Where Are We Now?

Children exposed to gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in utero are at high risk of developing many health problems such as obesity. There is an urgent need to find new strategies to prevent obesity development among high-risk populations such as those children. Accordingly, the aim of this review was to summarize current knowledge on the postnatal prevention of childhood obesity in offspring born from mothers with GDM. Specifically, this review addresses the impact of breastfeeding, complementary feeding practices as well as dietary intake and physical activity during childhood on obesity risk of children exposed to GDM in utero. Furthermore, breast milk composition of diabetic mothers and its potential impact on growth is discussed. According to the available literature, breastfeeding may reduce obesity risk in children exposed to GDM in utero but a longer duration seems necessary to achieve its protective effect against obesity. Detailed analysis of breast milk composition of mothers with GDM will be necessary to fully understand the relationship between breastfeeding and obesity in this specific population. This review highlights the need for more studies addressing the impact of complementary feeding practices and lifestyle habits during childhood on obesity risk of children exposed to GDM in utero.

Serum levels of nesfatin-1 are increased in gestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the concentrations of nesfatin-1 in maternal and cord serum, to evaluate the expression of nesfatin-1 in subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) from pregnant women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and those with normal glucose tolerance (NGT).

METHODS

We studied a total of 50 GDM and 50 NGT subjects. The clinical features, serum nesfatin-1, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), lipid profiles were measured at the third trimester of pregnancy. The expression of nesfatin-1 in the SAT was determined by western blot.

RESULTS

Compared with the NGT group, the GDM group showed greater levels of serum nesfatin-1, adipocyte fatty acid binding protein (AFABP), and leptin; a greater level of cord blood nesfatin-1; and a higher level of expression in SAT (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). Fasting insulin (FI) (b = 0.317, p= 0.022) and body mass index (BMI) before delivery (b = 0.367, p=0.008) were independently associated with serum nesfatin-1. Nesfatin-1 was the independent risk factor for GDM.

CONCLUSIONS

The GDM group had higher levels of maternal serum and cord blood nesfatin-1, and greater nesfatin-1 expression in SAT. Nesfatin-1 is closely related to obesity and IR in pregnancy.

Nesfatin-1 modulates murine gastric vagal afferent mechanosensitivity in a nutritional state dependent manner

Food intake is regulated by vagal afferent signals from the stomach. Nesfatin-1 is an anorexigenic peptide produced within the gastrointestinal tract and has well defined central effects. We aimed to determine if nesfatin-1 can modulate gastric vagal afferent signals in the periphery and further whether this is altered in different nutritional states. Female C57BL/6J mice were fed either a standard laboratory diet (SLD) or a high fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks or fasted overnight. Plasma nucleobindin-2 (NUCB2; nesfatin-1 precursor)/nesfatin-1 levels were assayed, the expression of NUCB2 in the gastric mucosa and adipose tissue was assessed using real-time quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. An in vitro preparation was used to determine the effect of nesfatin-1 on gastric vagal afferent mechanosensitivity. HFD mice exhibited an increased body weight and adiposity. Plasma NUCB2/nesfatin-1 levels were unchanged between any of the groups of mice. NUCB2 mRNA was detected in the gastric mucosa and gonadal fat of SLD, HFD and fasted mice with no difference in mRNA abundance between groups in either tissue. In SLD and fasted mice nesfatin-1 potentiated mucosal receptor mechanosensitivity, an effect not observed in HFD mice. Tension receptor mechanosensitivity was unaffected by nesfatin-1 in SLD and fasted mice, but was inhibited in HFD mice. In conclusion, Nesfatin-1 modulates gastric vagal afferent mechanosensitivity in a nutritional state dependent manner.