VARIATIONS IN C-REACTIVE PROTEIN CONCENTRATION

ABSTRACT

C-reactive protein (CRP) is an intriguing protein of the pentraxin family which plays a variety of roles in both physiological and pathophysiological states. For decades, CRP was regarded only as a hallmark of inflammation and a useful biomarker of infection and tissue injury; however, it is now recognized as a significant predictor of future episodes of cardiovascular disease, independent of other risk factors. Obesity is characterized by low-grade chronic inflammation and, as an acute-phase reactant to inflammation and infection, C-reactive protein (CRP) has been found to be the strongest factor associated with obesity. The aim of this study was to investigate the variations in serum concentrations of C-reactive protein between a population of obese and non-obese female adults. Thirty obese adult females (test group) and thirty non-obese adult females (control group) were included as subjects in this study; obesity was determined from BMI (> 30 kg/m²); and serum CRP was assayed by high-sensitivity C-reactive protein ELISA method (Monobind Inc.). Data were analysed by Student t test to compare between the means of test and control groups. C-reactive protein concentrations were significantly elevated in obese adult females compared with non-obese adult females (p < 0.05). In conclusion, CRP is elevated to mark the low-grade inflammation associated with the development of obesity.