Impaired microvascular endothelial function in relatively young obese humans is associated with altered metabolic and inflammatory markers.

Introduction: This study aims to assess microvascular endothelial function in obese compared to age matched lean controls. Serum lipid profile, fasting glucose, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) and adiponectin levels were also determined.

Methods: This cross-sectional study involved 36 healthy lean and 36 obese subjects. Microvascular endothelial function was assessed using Laser Doppler fluximetry and iontophoresis with acetylcholine and sodium nitroprusside.

Results: Mean age of subjects was 26.54 ± 0.60 years. Obese subjects had higher systolic (118.8 ± 1.5 vs 105.7 ± 2.0 mmHg, p < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (71.61 ± 1.35 vs 64.53 ± 1.40 mmHg, p = 0.001), higher triglyceride (1.35 ± 0.13 vs 0.79 ± 0.05 mmol/l, p < 0.001), lower high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (1.43 ± 0.04 vs 1.62 ± 0.05 mmol/l, p = 0.003), higher hs-CRP (11.58 ± 1.88 vs 1.88 ± 0.35 mg/l, p < 0.001), and lower adiponectin levels (8.80 ± 0.43 vs 25.93 ± 0.40 μg/ml, p < 0.001) compared to lean subjects. Endothelial dependent vasodilatation was lower in obese compared to lean subjects (40.53 ± 6.59 vs 71.03 ± 7.13 AU, p = 0.001).

Conclusion: Microvascular endothelial function is reduced in obese compared to age matched controls. This is associated with higher BP, triglyceride and lower HDL-C and adiponectin levels in obese group.