Circulating fibroblast growth factor-21, Omentin-1, and betatrophin and their association with metabolic parameters in Saudi adolescents post 12-month lifestyle change program

Abstract

Background: Fibroblast growth factor-21 (FGF21) and omentin-1 have been recognized as potent antidiabetic agents with potential hepatoprotective activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between betatrophin, hepatic FGF21 and omentin-1 as predictive markers of insulin resistance in adolescents who underwent a 12-month lifestyle change intervention program. Methods: Prospective data of 218 Saudi adolescents (45 normal and 77 overweight, and 96 obese) (mean age = 15.1 ± 1.5 years and mean BMI = 35.1 ± 6.6 kg/m2) who participated in a 12-month lifestyle modification program were included. Baseline and follow-up data on anthropometrics and clinical data were collected. Serum levels of betatrophin, omentin-1, FGF-21 and 25(OH)D were assessed using commercially available assays. Analysis and comparisons were done according to varying levels of body mass index (BMI) and glycemic status. Results: Results showed that betatrophin level decreased in the obese and prediabetic groups (p = 0.03, p = 0.002 respectively). There was a significant decrease in BMI in obese and overweight participants after the 12-month lifestyle modification program [35.1 ± 6.6 & 33.1 ± 7.5 and 26.6 ± 1.5 & 25.6 ± 2.3, p < 0.05 and p < 0.01 respectively]. Follow-up omentin1 was significantly elevated in overweight and obese individuals but no significant difference in omentin-1 in prediabetic group at follow-up was observed (p > 0.05). Conclusion: We concluded that betatrophin levels had an inverse association with metabolic biomarkers omentin-1, FGF-21, and 25(OH)D after a 12-month lifestyle modification program. A healthy diet and exercise are associated with decreased betatrophin levels and improving glucose tolerance.