Connecting the Dots: FGF21 as a Potential Link between Obesity and Cardiovascular Health in Acute Coronary Syndrome Patients

Abstract

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a hormone involved in regulating the metabolism, energy balance, and glucose homeostasis, with new studies demonstrating its beneficial effects on the heart. This study investigated the relationship between FGF21 levels and clinical, biochemical, and echocardiographic parameters in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACSs). This study included 80 patients diagnosed with ACS between May and July 2023, categorized into four groups based on body mass index (BMI): Group 1 (BMI 18.5–24.9 kg/m2), Group 2 (BMI 25–29.9 kg/m2), Group 3 (BMI 30–34.9 kg/m2), and Group 4 (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2). Serum FGF21 levels were measured by ELISA (Abclonal Catalog NO.: RK00084). Serum FGF21 levels were quantifiable in 55 samples (mean ± SD: 342.42 ± 430.17 pg/mL). Group-specific mean FGF21 levels were 238.98 pg/mL ± SD in Group 1 (n = 14), 296.78 pg/mL ± SD in Group 2 (n = 13), 373.77 pg/mL ± SD in Group 3 (n = 12), and 449.94 pg/mL ± SD in Group 4 (n = 16), with no statistically significant differences between groups (p = 0.47). Based on ACS diagnoses, mean FGF21 levels were 245.72 pg/mL for STEMI (n = 21), 257.89 pg/mL for NSTEMI (n = 9), and 456.28 pg/mL for unstable angina (n = 25), with no significant differences observed between these diagnostic categories. Significant correlations were identified between FGF21 levels and BMI, diastolic blood pressure, and serum chloride. Regression analyses revealed correlations with uric acid, chloride, and creatinine kinase MB. This study highlights the complex interplay between FGF21, BMI, and acute coronary syndromes. While no significant differences were found in FGF21 levels between the different BMI and ACS diagnostic groups, correlations with clinical and biochemical parameters suggest a multifaceted role of FGF21 in cardiovascular health. Further research with a larger sample size is warranted to elucidate these relationships.