The expression of gene encoding carbohydrate response element binding protein in obesity and its relationship with visceral adiposity and metabolic syndrome

Background: Carbohydrate response element-binding protein (ChREBP) is an important regulator of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. In this study, the aim was to investigate the expression of the CHREBP gene and its relationship with metabolic parameters and hepatic steatosis in subjects with obesity. Methods: This study was conducted on 50 patients with obesity and 50 subjects with normal weight. All participants were clinically evaluated, and the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome (MetS) was done according to the criteria stated by IDF (International Diabetes Federation). Lipid accumulation in liver was evaluated using ultrasound. Gene expression of CHREBP was assessed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Insulin was assayed via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, and the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was applied for the estimation of insulin resistance (IR) status. Results: Gene expression levels of CHREBP were found to be increased in obesity. Individuals with MetS had higher expression of CHREBP in comparison to those without MetS. Moreover, CHREBP expression showed a positive correlation with BMI, weight, waist circumference, visceral adiposity index, and triglyceride levels as well as an opposite relationship with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Additionally, patients with grade 2 liver steatosis indicated a significantly higher expression of CHREBP compared with the controls. Conclusion: Our results revealed that the gene expression of CHREBP is elevated in individuals with obesity and MetS, demonstrating the possible involvement of this transcription factor in the pathogenesis of the diseases that are associated with obesity.

Automated summary

The gene expression of CHREBP is elevated in individuals with obesity and metabolic syndrome, and it is associated with various metabolic and liver-related parameters.