High molecular weight form of adiponectin levels of Japanese patients with chronic hepatitis C virus infection

Aim: The aim of the present study was to clarify the correlation between serum adiponectin level and the properties of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Methods: A meal test was carried out for insulin resistance assessment in 81 patients with chronic HCV infection. Blood samples were taken before and after the test to measure serum insulin and plasma glucose (PG). The adiponectin level was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in each patient. Results: Serum adiponectin levels were significantly correlated with the area under the insulin curve (AUC-insulin)during the meal test and with serum HCV-RNA level. Multiple regression analysis showed age to be a significant independent parameter associated with an increased adiponectin level, whereas male sex, fasting insulin, and serum HCV-RNA level were significant independent parameters associated with a decreased adiponectin level. Conclusion: It is possible that insulin resistance in patients with chronic HCV infection is related to adiponectin secretion.