original articles June 01, 2011 June 01, 2011

Serum retinol binding protein 4 is not decreased in congenital generalized lipodystrophy: a case series

DOI: 10.1590/S0004-27302011000400007

INTRODUCTION: Previous studies have suggested that Retinol Binding Protein 4 (RPB4), a protein produced by the adipose tissue, is associated with insulin resistance (IR). Congenital Generalized Lipodystrophy (CGL) is a rare disease characterized by IR and paucity of adipose tissue. Our objective was to determine RBP4 levels in patients with CGL. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Six (6) patients with CGL and a healthy control group were selected to participate in the study. Anthropometric and biochemical variables were compared between groups. RESULTS: No difference was observed in RBP4 levels between the two groups (CGL 42.5 [12.5 – 127] vs. control 57.4 [15.9 – 165]; p = 0.78). On the other hand, leptin levels were significantly lower in CGL patients (CGL 0.65 [0.2 – 0.7] vs. control 10.9 [0.9 – 38.6]; p = 0.015). No correlation was found between RBP-4 and waist circunference (r = 0.18, p = 0.57), or BMI (r = 0.24, p = 0.45). CONCLUSION: RBP4 is not decreased in CGL. These results suggest that adipose tissue may not be the main source of RBP4.