Circulating FTO Protein Levels and β-Cell Function in Individuals with Different Metabolic Profiles: A Cross- Sectional Study

Background

Obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus are characterized by insulin resistance and progressive impairment of β-cell function. Fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO) protein, an m6A demethylase involved in metabolic regulation, has been linked to obesity. However, the relationship between circulating FTO protein levels and β-cell function among individuals with different metabolic profiles remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate circulating FTO levels and their relationship with β-cell function, assessed by (HOMA-β), in individuals with newly diagnosed T2D, obese individuals without diabetes, and normal-weight individuals without diabetes. Patients and Methods: This cross-sectional observational study included 82 participants: 39 individuals newly diagnosed with T2D, 23 obese individuals without diabetes, and 20 normal-weight individuals without diabetes. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters, including fasting blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, and HOMA-β, were assessed. Serum FTO levels were measured using ELISA. Correlation and multiple linear regression analyses were performed to examine the relationship between circulating FTO levels and (HOMA-β).