# Evaluation of mucin-1, nuclear factor κB, and hemoglobin A1c levels in obese and non-obese individuals

## TL;DR

This study found that hemoglobin A1c, mucin-1, and nuclear factor κB levels are higher in obese individuals and may serve as useful markers for obesity diagnosis.

## Contribution

The study identifies mucin-1 as a potential modifier of obesity and highlights its serum and gene expression changes in obese individuals.

## Key findings

- Obese individuals had higher serum levels of hemoglobin A1c, mucin-1, and nuclear factor κB compared to healthy controls.
- Gene expressions of these markers were upregulated in obese individuals.
- Waist circumference and BMI correlated with both serum markers and gene expressions in obese individuals.

## Abstract

Obesity is a chronic multisystem disease associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Obesity, which is a complex, multifactorial, and heterogeneous condition, is thought to result from the interaction of environmental, physiological, and genetic factors. In this study, the relationship between serum levels of hemoglobin A1c, mucin-1, and nuclear factor κB in obese and healthy cohorts was evaluated along with biochemical and gene expressions and with demographic and clinical covariates, and their effects on obesity were evaluated.

This case–control study included a total of 80 individuals, 40 healthy controls and 40 obesity patients, consisting of female and male aged between 18 and 63 years. Hemoglobin A1c, mucin-1, and nuclear factor κB levels were determined by ELISA in serum samples obtained from patients. In addition, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine transaminase, low density lipoprotein, and glucose values were measured. The gene expressions of the same markers were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and their regulation status was defined.

Serum levels of hemoglobin A1c, mucin-1, and nuclear factor κB were found to be high in obese individuals (p<0.05). The gene expression of these serum markers was found to be upregulated. Of the anthropometric measurements, waist circumference and body mass index were correlated with both serum markers and gene expressions (p<0.05).

In addition to the known association of hemoglobin A1c and nuclear factor κB with obesity, serum levels of mucin-1 as well as upregulation of genes point to its modifier effect on obesity. These parameters can be the powerful markers in the diagnosis of obesity.