Leptin may be a key regulator of C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, which in turn, is a marker of systemic inflammation. Both leptin and CRP are predictors of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High leptin levels are independently associated with CVD even after adjustment for CRP; elevated CRP levels are not associated with CVD after adjustment for leptin. However, subjects with increased leptin and CRP are at the highest risk for CVD.
- Abel Romero-Corral
- Justo Sierra-Johnson
- Virend K Somers