Assessing the Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Retinol-Binding Protein 4 (RBP4): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

This study aimed to analyze changes in retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) levels before and after bariatric surgery in obese individuals. Bariatric surgery is a safe and effective treatment for morbid obesity, impacting molecules like RBP4. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 12 relevant studies were conducted, utilizing databases such as PubMed, Cochrane Central, Web of Science, and Scopus. Significant differences in RBP4, glucose, and BMI levels pre- and post-surgery were observed. Meta-regression analysis explored associations with age, pre-BMI, triglycerides, glucose, and post-insulin levels. Findings suggest RBP4 may improve insulin sensitivity after bariatric surgery, warranting further investigation as a potential pharmacotherapeutic target. These results highlight the importance of understanding RBP4's role in the context of bariatric surgery and its implications for improving metabolic health in obese individuals.

The Effect of Bariatric Surgery on Irisin Level: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

This systematic analysis and meta-analysis aimed to assess changes in the plasma levels of irisin after bariatric surgery. Search strategy, study screening, and data gathering were all conducted using a checklist and the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA). Two researchers independently extracted the data, and a third person was included to resolve disagreements. The results illustrated no statistical difference between before and after surgery irisin plasma levels (P = 0.216, 95% CI = -1.812-0.410, SMD = -0.701, I-squared = 94.9%). BMI exhibited a meaningful decline after surgery compared to preoperative values (SMD = -3.09, 95% CI = -4.59--1.59, I-squared = 95.5%, P<0.05). According to our analysis, it can be concluded that irisin plasma levels are not significantly influenced by bariatric surgery.