Leptin as well as Free Leptin Receptor Is Associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Young Women

Abstract EN

Background and Aim.

Leptin has two forms in the circulation: free and bound forms.

The soluble leptin receptor (sOB-R) circulates in the blood and can bind to leptin.

The aim of this study is to assess the concentrations of the leptin and the sOB-R in PCOS and its relation to adiposity, insulin resistance, and androgens.

Methods.

A cross-sectional study included 78 female students aged 17–25 years.

Fasting serum leptin and sOB-R concentrations were measured.

The anthropometric variables and the hormonal profile such as insulin, female and male sex hormones, and prolactin were assessed.

Results.

In PCOS, leptin level (ng/ml) and free leptin index (FLI) increased significantly while sOB-R (ng/ml) significantly decreased compared to control subjects.

In age-matched subjects, obese PCOS had increased leptin level in ng/ml (median level with interquartile levels) of 45.67 (41.98–48.04) and decreased sOB-R in ng/ml 11.47 (7.59–16.44) compared to lean PCOS 16.97 (10.60–45.55) for leptin and 16.62 (11.61–17.96) for sOB-R with p values 0.013 and 0.042, respectively.

However, body mass index (BMI) is significantly correlated with leptin and s-OBR, while no significant correlations with parameters of insulin resistance were detected.

Conclusion.

PCOS is associated with hyperleptinemia and increased free leptin index.

Decreased sOB-R could be a compensatory mechanism for the defective action of leptin.