ABSTRACT
Obesity is characterized by a state of chronic mild inflammation, with raised circulating levels of inflammatory markers. Expression and release of inflammation-related adipokines, generally, rise as adipose tissue expands. In the present study we evaluated the level of serum mediators concerned in inflammation and monocyte activation (TNF-alpha, hs-CRP, MCP-1) together with percentage of CD11-b expression on monocytes in a group of morbidly obese individuals (n = 20) before and (3-6 months) after restrictive surgery, and in 15 healthy normal weight individuals. Serum MCP-1, TNF-alpha and hs-CRP were assayed by enzymatic immunoassay, while the percentage of CD11b expression on monocytes was assayed by flow cytometry. The total lipid profile and random blood glucose levels were also assessed. Morbidly obese individuals ( before surgical weight loss) had significantly increased levels of MCP-1, TNF-alpha, hs-CRP, CD11b expression on monocytes as compared to controls (P < 0.01). Levels of MCP-1, TNF-alpha, hs-CRP were significantly decreased 3 to 6 months after restrictive surgery than before the operation (P < 0.01). hs-CRP, MCP-1 and TNF-alpha were positively correlated versus each other. TNF-alpha and hs-CRP also showed positive correlation with the body mass index. Our data suggested that the studied serum and monocyte parameters may link obesity with systemic inflammation and metabolic disorders. The interactions of MCP-1, CD11b and other inflammatory parameters might provide the basis for development of new therapies for this syndrome.