Leap-2 and irisin in the pathophysiology of Type 2 diabetes mellitus

INTRODUCTION: Objectives: Insulin resistance is one of the main reasons responsible for the pathogenesis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). LEAP2 functions as an endogenous antagonist of the ghrelin receptor and is associated with insulin resistance. Irisin is a thermogenic myokine that causes energy expenditure by converting white adipose tissue into brown adipose tissue. Based on this information, we aimed to reveal the possible relationship between Leap2, irisin levels, and insulin resistance in newly diagnosed T2DM patients
METHODS: Methods: Our study consisted of 82 patients newly diagnosed with T2DM and 74 Healthy control groups who do not use any medication. Leap2 and irisin levels were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method.
RESULTS: Results: Compared to the control group, we found the serum irisin levels significantly lower in the diabetic group. LEAP2 levels were significantly higher in the diabetic group. In the patient group, we found a negative correlation between irisin levels and HOMA-IR and insulin levels and a positive correlation with HDL. On the contrary, we found a positive correlation between LEAP2 levels and HOMA-IR, insulin, and triglyceride levels.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Conclusion: In patients with T2DM, LEAP2 levels are higher and irisin levels are lower than in healthy people. Various molecules have been the target of many studies on maintaining glucous homeostasis, and preventing and improving diabetes mellitus. Therefore, the role of adipomyokines in T2DM and insulin resistance should be further investigated. To our knowledge, this study will be the first report correlating T2DM, LEAP2, and irisin levels and HOMA-IR in humans.

Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, HOMA-IR, irisin, Leap2