Serum levels of anti-inflammatory/proinflammatory adipocytokines, and copper levels in overweight and obese women in an adult Mexican population

Background An imbalance between adipokines and micronutrient concentrations, such as those of copper (Cu), has been linked to dysregulation of energy homeostasis leading to weight gain and the development of other comorbidities; however, information on this issue remains limited. Our aim was to investigate the correlation between Cu status and serum adipokine levels and their relationship in normal-weight, overweight, and obese adult women. Methods Sixty patients were evaluated and classified according to their body mass index (BMI) and biochemical parameters; adipokines and Cu were measured at fasting. Results Leptin (Lep) and resistin (Res) levels were elevated, whereas adiponectin (Adpn) and ghrelin (Ghr) values were decreased in overweight and obese women ( p = 0.001). The mean Adpn/Lep ratio was <0.5 in overweight and obese subjects, while the Lep/Ghr ratio increased significantly in relation to weight gain, suggesting an inverse link between the ratios of these hormones in the regulation of obesity. The analysis revealed a positive association between BMI and Cu levels in obese women. Moreover, a negative association between Cu and Res in normal-weight subjects was found. Conclusions Circulating fasting Res levels are negatively associated with serum Cu concentration in normal-weight adult women. We also observed a close relationship between Adpn/Lep and Lep/Ghr ratios with obesity. However, more observational studies are required to confirm these results in future research.