Fractalkine as an inflammatory marker in obese subjects

---

Mohsen Khalid, Fatma Hamad, Asmaa Ibrahim and Ayat Ghanem

National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Egypt

: J Pharm Sci Emerg Drugs

Abstract

---

Background: Fractalkine (CX3CL1) is known to convey its signals through a single G-protein coupled receptor (CX3CR1). It is characterized as a structurally unique chemokine with both membrane-bound and soluble forms. Fractalkine expression has been detected in activated or stressed endothelial, smooth muscle, skeletal muscle, macrophages, neurons, hepatocytes and adipocytes. Inflammation up regulates Fractalkine particularly in adipose tissue of obese individuals. Aim of Work: This study was designed to assess fractalkine level in obese subjects and its relation with some clinical and laboratory findings. It compares basal plasma fractalkine and hs-CRP in obese patients (with and without metabolic syndrome) and lean healthy controls. Results: Serum fractalkine level was significantly raised in obese subjects compared to lean controls (being higher in those with metabolic syndrome). There was a significant positive correlation between serum fractalkine level and BMI, WC, WHR, fasting and post prandial blood glucose, HBA1c, total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL and it was inversely correlated with HDL while there was no significant correlation between serum fractalkine level and hs-CRP. Conclusions: Fractalkine, like otherknown adipocytederived chemokines was increased in obese individuals and associated mainlywith metabolic syndrome. This is a step in the way to understand and explain the exact pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome as well as obesity linked complications.

Biography

---

Mohsen Khalid has graduated from faculty of medicine Cairo University in 1980. He has completed his Master degree in Internal Medicine in 1986, and then he completed his Medical Doctorate in Internal Medicine in 2003. He is a Consultant of Diabetes and Endocrinology in the Egyptian National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology. He has published more than 20 papers in reputed journals. His research interest focuses on Genetics of Diabetes, diabetic complications and how to assist diabetic patients to live a good life with life style modification and medical treatment.

E-mail: m2khalid@hotmail.com