Evaluation of Plasma TRB3 and Sestrin 2 Levels in Obese and Normal-Weight Children

Obesity in childhood and adolescence is associated with metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular diseases. TRB3 (Tribbles homolog 3) and sestrin 2 are two newly found proteins that have been identified to play an important role in obesity and its complications. The purpose of this study was to evaluate concentrations of TRB3 and sestrin 2 in plasma of obese and normal-weight children and adolescents, and their association with metabolic and anthropometric parameters. Plasma levels of TRB3, sestrin 2, insulin, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and lipid profile were evaluated in 70 children and adolescents (34 obese and 36 controls). Insulin resistance was calculated using a homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance. Metabolic syndrome was defined according to IDF criteria. Plasma TRB3 levels of the obese subjects were significantly higher than that of normal weight subjects. TRB3 levels were positively correlated with BMI, BMI z-score, waist circumference, and FPG. The concentration of sestrin 2 was significantly lower in obese subjects compared to normal-weight subjects. A statistically significant positive correlation was observed between plasma concentrations of sestrin 2 and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Neither TRB3 nor sestrin 2 were correlated with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Both TRB3 and sestrin 2 may contribute to the development of obesity and its complications and can be considered interesting therapeutic target for the treatment of obesity.