Asprosin and miRNA Expression in Young Women With Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, and its prevalence in young adults is increasing. Early identification of individuals at risk may improve prevention strategies. This observational, cross-sectional case-control study investigates the relationship between serum asprosin concentration, the expression of six selected circulating microRNAs, and the components and risk factors of metabolic syndrome in young women aged 18 to 35 years. Two equally sized groups will be compared: women meeting NCEP ATP III criteria for metabolic syndrome and healthy age-matched controls. Participants attend a single study visit during which fasting blood samples, anthropometric and body composition measurements, blood pressure, and validated questionnaires assessing physical activity, diet, sleep quality, perceived stress, and quality of life are collected. The study aims to determine whether asprosin and the selected microRNA profile have diagnostic value as biomarkers of metabolic syndrome in this population.

Inclusion Criteria: * Female sex * Age 18 to 35 years * Regular menstrual cycle * Not engaged in competitive sports training in any discipline * Non-smoker * No alcohol abuse * No continuous pharmacotherapy, with the exception of treatment for diabetes and/or antihypertensive treatment; no use of hormonal contraception * Written informed consent for study participation and processing of personal data Exclusion Criteria: * Age outside the range of 18 to 35 years * Irregular menstrual cycle * Pregnancy or breastfeeding * Continuous pharmacotherapy for indications other than diabetes and/or hypertension, including any form of hormonal contraception (oral, transdermal, vaginal, implant, injectable or intrauterine) * Competitive sports training in any discipline * Current smoking * Alcohol abuse * Lack of written informed consent for study participation and processing of personal data