Lifestyle intervention is associated with decreased concentrations of circulating pentraxin 3 independent of CRP decrease

OBJECTIVES: Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is an acute phase marker, which is produced at the site of infection or inflammation in contrast to CRP that is mainly synthesized by the liver. The aim of the present study was to see if lifestyle interventions/weight loss would lead to decreased blood plasma concentrations of PTX3. METHODS: Study subjects (n = 31) were recruited to a lifestyle intervention program aiming at increased physical activity, improved eating habits, and weight loss. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (CRP) and PTX3 methods were used for analysis of CRP and PTX3 in plasma samples collected at inclusion and after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment. RESULTS: Wilcoxon paired samples test showed a significant decrease in PTX3 concentrations from 2068 pg/mL at start to 2007 pg/mL at 4 weeks (P = 0.002) and 1748 pg/mL at 8 weeks (P = 0.003). The PTX3 decrease was not significantly correlated with a corresponding decrease in CRP or weight reduction. CONCLUSIONS: The lifestyle intervention program resulted in a significant reduction of circulating concentrations of pentraxin 3 already after 4 and 8 weeks of treatment.