Differences in Expression, Content, and Activity of 11β-HSD1 in Adipose Tissue between Obese Men and Women

Abstract EN

Cortisol production in adipose tissue is regulated by 11β-HSD1.

Objective.

To determine whether there are differences in gene expression, enzyme activity, and protein content of the 11β-HSD1 enzyme in VAT (visceral adipose tissue) and SAT (subcutaneous adipose tissue) from obese compared to nonobese adults.

Methods.

VAT and SAT samples were obtained from 32 obese subjects (BMI>30 Kg/m2) who underwent bariatric surgery and 15 samples from controls submitted to elective surgery.

Fasting serum glucose, insulin, and lipids were measured.

The expression of 11β-HSD1 was determined by RT-PCR, the enzyme activity by thin-layer chromatography, and the protein content by Western blot.

Results.

Obese patients had higher cholesterol, insulin, and HOMA-IR compared to nonobese.

There were no differences in VAT or SAT expression of 11β-HSD1 between obese and nonobese patients.

However, we found lower 11β-HSD1 activity and protein content in VAT, in obese women versus nonobese women (P<0.05).

BMI and 11β-HSD1 enzyme activity and protein content in VAT correlated inversely in women.

Conclusions.

Regulation of 11β-HSD1 activity in VAT from obese subjects appears to be gender specific, suggesting the existence of a possible protective mechanism modulating this enzyme activity leading to a decrease in the production of cortisol in this tissue.