Obesity, macrophage migration inhibitory factor, and weight loss

OBJECTIVE: Elevated macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) has been implicated as a causal mechanism in a number of disease conditions including cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, and cancer. Excess body fat is associated with an increased risk of numerous health conditions including CVD, diabetes, and cancer. To our knowledge, the association between MIF and obesity status and the effect of weight loss on serum MIF concentrations have not been reported. In this study, we examined the effects of participation in a behavior-based weight loss program on MIF concentrations in obese individuals. SUBJECTS: Study participants were 71 men and women enrolled in The Cooper Institute Weight Management Program. Participants were predominantly female (68%, n =48), middle-aged (46.5±9.8 y), and severely obese (BMI=43.0±8.6). METHOD: Plasma MIF concentrations and other standard risk factors were measured before and after participation in a diet and physical activity based weight management program. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 8.5±3.0 months with an average weight loss of 14.4 kg ( P