MicroRNA Expression in Human Omental and Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue
2009

MicroRNA Expression in Human Adipose Tissue

Sample size: 15 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Klöting Nora, Berthold Susan, Kovacs Peter, Schön Michael R., Fasshauer Mathias, Ruschke Karen, Stumvoll Michael, Blüher Matthias

Primary Institution: University of Leipzig

Hypothesis

Is miRNA expression in human adipose tissue fat-depot specific and related to parameters of obesity and glucose metabolism?

Conclusion

MicroRNA expression differences may contribute to intrinsic differences between omental and subcutaneous adipose tissue.

Supporting Evidence

  • 106 out of 155 miRNAs were detectable in both omental and subcutaneous fat samples.
  • Significant correlations were found between miRNA expression and parameters of obesity and glucose metabolism.
  • 16 miRNAs showed significant fat depot specific expression patterns.

Takeaway

This study looked at tiny molecules called microRNAs in fat from people with different types of diabetes and found that they can help explain why some fat is different from other fat.

Methodology

The study involved a global miRNA gene expression assay in paired samples of abdominal subcutaneous and omental adipose tissue from overweight and obese individuals.

Potential Biases

Specific characteristics of the study population may have influenced the results.

Limitations

The study had a small sample size and the findings need confirmation in larger cohorts.

Participant Demographics

Fifteen Caucasian individuals (8 men and 7 women) aged 50 to 73 years with a BMI ranging from 25.4 to 38.1 kg/m2.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0004699

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