Comparison of adipose tissue derived genes in endogenous Cushing's syndrome versus diet-induced obesity.

INTRODUCTION: Dysregulation of adipokine secretion and action are characteristic features of obesity that is a main clinical feature of Cushing's syndrome (CS). We have investigated whether endogenous glucocorticoid excess influences adipose tissue derived gene expression.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: mRNA expression of adipokines; adiponectin, resistin, tumor necrosis factor-, interleukin-6 (IL-6), angiotensinogen (AGT), plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1, retinol binding protein 4, visfatin, cystatin C was assessed by quantitative real-time RT-PCR in visceral adipose tissue removed during abdominal surgery of eight patients with CS, and six control patients.

RESULTS: We did not find any significant difference in the investigated genes, however, the almost significant overexpression of AGT and underexpression of IL-6 might be noteworthy (p=0.06 in both cases).

CONCLUSIONS: No significant differences were found in the expression of the investigated genes known as cardiometabolic risk factors. This indicates that there are no major differences between endogenous hypercortisolism or diet induced obesity regarding the expression of adipokines involved in cardiometabolic disorders. However, the difference in AGT and IL-6 expression might be included in pathways affecting fat distribution in CS.