Circulating levels of interleukin-1 family cytokines in overweight adolescents

Abstract

Objectives: Obesity and related diseases are dramatically increasing problems, particularly in children and adolescents. We determined circulating levels of different interleukin (IL)-1 family members in normal weight and overweight adolescents. Methods. Seventy male, Caucasian adolescents (13-17 years) were recruited. Thirty-five had a body-mass index (BMI) above the 90th age-specific percentile. IL-1, IL-1, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra), and IL-18 were determined using multiplex-technology. Results. IL-18 concentrations were higher in the overweight group compared to normal weight (161.6±40.7 pg/ml versus 134.7±43.4 pg/ml, P=.009). Concentrations of circulating IL-1 levels were below the detection threshold. IL-18 (R 2:0.355, P