Background: Retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4) is a novel adipokine that induces insulin resistance in mice. Studies in humans have shown a correlation between serum RBP4 and insulin resistance in obese subjects and in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Few data are available regarding the nutritional regulation of RBP4.
Objective: The study investigated the relation of RBP4 with phenotypes of glucose and lipid metabolism at baseline and in response to a 7-d overfeeding protocol in young men.
Design: Sixty-five men participated in the study. Subjects were classified on the basis of body mass index (BMI; kg/m(2)) as normal-weight (</=24.9) or as overweight or obese (>/=25.0). Serum RBP4, interleukin-6, visfatin, glucose, insulin, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol (calculated), and triacylglycerols were measured. Insulin resistance and beta cell function were assessed by using the homeostasis model. Percentage body fat was measured by using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry.
Results: No significant differences were found in serum RBP4 between the 2 groups at baseline. Likewise, no significant differences were observed in fasting serum RBP4 in response to overfeeding. Baseline RBP4 was negatively correlated with the change in insulin resistance in normal-weight subjects, independent of age and BMI. No significant correlation was found between serum RBP4 and visfatin, interleukin-6, or any other variables measured.
Conclusions: Short-term overfeeding did not induce significant changes in RBP4. Baseline RBP4 concentrations may predict insulin resistance when exposed to a positive energy challenge in normal-weight men.