LAUSR

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. The exact etiology is unknown. However, genetic and environmental factors are suggested to be involved in the pathogenesis of MS. Improper diet resulting in obesity and metabolic syndrome can contribute to this disease. Adipokines, secreted by adipose tissue, are linking metabolism and immune system. We aimed to assess plasma levels of selected adipokines in newly diagnosed, treatment-naïve individuals with multiple sclerosis. Our group comprised 58 individuals (31 MS patients and 27 controls, matched for age and BMI) without diabetes, hypertension or dyslipidemia. Circulating adiponectin and all adiponectin fractions, visfatin and omentin concentrations were measured. Metabolic parameters were also assessed. In MS individuals we observed the following results: higher concentrations of visfatin, lower levels of omentin and no differences in adiponectin array. There were also correlations between some adipokines and metabolic parameters. After adjustment to BMI statistically significant decrease in total adiponectin, HMW adiponectin and omentin, and increase in MMW adiponectin were observed in the group of MS patients when compared to those of the controls. To conclude, our results indicate that adiponectin with its fractions, visfatin, and omentin cannot be considered as causative factors in the early phase of multiple sclerosis. However, the potential role of adipokines in MS is possible as they might be involved in the pathogenesis of MS regarded as an autoimmune disorder.