An exploratory investigation of links between changes in adipokines and quality of life in individuals undergoing weight loss interventions: Possible implications for cancer research

DOI

10.1016/j.ygyno.2014.01.019

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

1-1-2014

Publication Title

Gynecologic Oncology

Volume

133

Issue

1

First Page

67

Last Page

72

ISSN

908258

Keywords

Adipokines, Biomarkers, Endometrial cancer, Inflammation, Prevention, Weight loss

Abstract

Obesity has been linked to a wide spectrum of malignancies, with the strongest association demonstrated for endometrial cancer. Although the mechanisms are not yet entirely clear, a number of risk biomarkers have been proposed, including altered adipokines. Systemic levels of these adipose derived molecules have also been linked in prior research to self-reported quality of life (QOL). The study objective was to examine the hypothesis that adipokine changes during intentional weight loss may be associated with changes in QOL. Methods Fifty-two female participants were selected from two behavioral weight loss trials (SMART and PREFER) on the basis of achieving successful weight loss at 6 month assessment, availability of blood samples and completion of standard SF-36 QOL questionnaires. Levels of adiponectin, leptin, and resistin were measured using xMAP immunoassays. Changes in QOL were examined using linear regression models in relation to pre- and post-intervention changes in biomarker levels and BMI. Results Significant changes between pre- and post-intervention were observed for leptin. Controlling for baseline BMI, leptin was the only biomarker that predicted change in QOL (Physical Component Scale, PCS). Linear regression models demonstrated that leptin continued to be a significant predictor of change in PCS when other possible predictor variables were included in the model. Conclusions This study is among the first to demonstrate that changes in PCS may be regulated by levels of both metabolic variables and adipokines. An improved understanding of biological mechanisms associated with weight loss and the role of QOL may help guide preventive strategies for obesity-associated cancers. © 2014 Elsevier Inc.

Open Access

Green Accepted

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