Serum Leptin in Obese Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Leptin, a protein hormone expressed and released by adipocytes, is considered to have a role in the regulation of body weight and associated energy metabolism. The aim of this study was to investigate the serum leptin levels in obese type 2 diabetes mellitus individuals. Twenty obese male with type 2 diabetes mellitus (group A) and twenty obese male without type 2 diabetes mellitus (group B) were enrolled in the study. In both groups the body mass index (BMI), HbA1c and serum leptin levels were assessed. Serum leptin concentration of Group A was significantly lower than of group B; 34.38±15.56 ng/ml versus 46.29 ±/13.51 ng/ml, respectively; p< 0.01. Serum leptin level was also significantly lower in a studied group of poorly controlled diabetes mellitus individuals compared to the one of well-controlled diabetics; 29.49 ± 11.82 ng/ml versus 37.89 ± 10.54 ng/ml, respectively; p < 0.05. We also found a lower serum leptin level in obese male with type 2 diabetes mellitus than that of non diabetic obese. Serum leptin was lower in poorly controlled diabetes than of well controlled diabetes. We suggest thatfurther studies are required to make clear the issue for lower leptin level and its role in the development of insulin resistance.