To investigate the hematological and metabolic profiles, including specific parameters like glucose and lipid levels, of obese and non-obese Saudi subjects and determine associations between LEP single-nucleotide variants and obesity-related changes.
Key Findings:
Obese subjects showed significant alterations in hematological parameters, including elevated white blood cell and platelet counts (p < 0.05), and decreased red blood cell counts (p < 0.05).
Red blood cell indices such as hemoglobin, hematocrit, and mean corpuscular volume were significantly reduced in the obese group (p < 0.05).
Two LEP variants were identified: NM_00230.2:c.-39G > A associated with obesity risk (OR: 2.48, 95% CI: 1.02-6.01, p = 0.04) and higher white blood cell counts, and c.280G > A found exclusively in obese subjects.
Interpretation:
The study reveals significant obesity-associated hematological alterations in the Saudi population, with progressive changes across obesity classes, and identifies genetic influences on these changes, suggesting a need for targeted interventions.
Limitations:
Conclusion:
The findings suggest potential genetic influences on obesity-related hematological changes in the Saudi population, highlighting the importance of genetic screening in clinical practice.
by Lamiaa Hamad Al-Jamea, Alexander Woodman, Rehab Yusuf Al-Ansari, Fatimah Salem Alayidh, Khalid Khalaf Alharbi, Nayef Saleh Al Ahmadi, Rashid Al-Jawair, Ibrahim Sahin, Shouq Saleh AlGhamdi, Emad Johar Al Johar, Jenifer Vecina Quiambao, Abdel Halim Deifalla, Yousef Mohammed Hawsawi
