Does Leptin Have A Role in The Development of Intracranial Meningiomas?

Abstract

Introduction: Meningiomas are the most frequent benign tumours of the intracranial cavity accounting for around 30% of all intracranial tumours. The majority of meningiomas are actually benign while a certain subset demonstrate a higher incidence of recurrence and unfavourable morbidity and mortality rates. Leptin, the product of the obese (ob) gene, is a 16-kDA polypeptide which is located on human chromosome 7. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of body weight by controlling food intake, energy metabolism and neuroendocrine function. Aim: To search for a possible relationship between leptin and intracranial meningioma formation. A prospective control clinical study was used. Patients and methods: According to WHO classification of CNS tumours, 20 patients with grade I and 12 patients harbouring grade II meningiomas were included in the study. Fasting blood glucose, blood insulin and leptin levels were determined. Leptin staining scores were evaluated immunohistochemically from the parafin blocks of the meningioma patients. Body mass index values and antidiabetic drug treatment were also noted. Results: No statistically significant relationship was noted between the grade I and grade II meningioma groups in all the parameters searched (body mass index, blood glucose levels, blood leptin levels, leptin staining score). The use of antidiabetic drug treatment was homogenous between the groups. Conclusion: The present study did not provide any evidence about a possible association between leptin and intracranial meningioma formation. However, research with a larger volume of patient groups, including grade III meningiomas is needed in order to substantiate such a relationship.