Serum Level of Adipocyte Fatty Acid Binding Protein in Obesity

Background: Obesity is a chronic nutritional disorder characterized by excess accumulation of adipose tissue. Adipose tissues being energy depots also act as an endocrine organ and secrete adipokines. Adipocyte fatty acid binding protein (AFABP) is a newer adipokine associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome. Aim: The aim of the study is to measure serum level of AFABP in obese individuals and to compare it with lean individuals. Further, to analyze the correlation between AFABPs with insulin resistance. Materials and Methods: Study group included 50 obese individuals, aged 30-50 years whose body mass index (BMI) is >30 kg/m2 and the control group included 50 healthy lean individuals age and sex matched whose BMI < 25 kg/m2. Assay of serum AFABP and insulin were done using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Plasma blood glucose was estimated by semi auto analyzer. Results: The mean AFABP level in the study group (31.27 ± 5.04) was significantly high when compared to the control group (16.07 ± 1.10). Pearson’s correlation revealed positive correlation with insulin resistance (r = 0.371). Conclusion: Our study showed increase in level of AFABP in obese individuals compared to control group. It also showed with increase in mean level of serum AFABP concentration there is increased insulin resistance. Insulin resistance places a role in connecting obesity with metabolic syndrome. Hence, adipocyte fatty acid binding protein can be taken as marker of obesity and a predictor of metabolic syndrome. Hence, it can be targeted therapeutically in future.