The Complex Interplay of Irisin Levels, Low Birth Weight, and Blood Pressure in Prepubescent Children

Background: Irisin regulates various metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress processes. It has been considered a promising target in the context of the development and maintenance of cardiovascular diseases. We conducted a study to evaluate the levels of plasma irisin in prepubertal children, examining its relationship with birth weight, anthropometric parameters, biochemical profile, and blood pressure levels. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 136 prepubertal children aged 6 to 11 years, with 27.9% born at a low weight. Anthropometric parameters, blood pressure, and biochemical profiles were assessed. Results: Children with low birth weight had significantly lower irisin levels compared to those with normal birth weight (p < 0.001). Birth weight was negatively correlated with blood pressure levels (systolic: r = -0.213, p = 0.013; diastolic: r = -0.223, p = 0.009) and positively correlated with irisin levels (p < 0.001). Irisin levels were positively associated with systolic blood pressure, even after adjusting for birth weight, BMI, and physical activity (p < 0.001). The linear regression analysis indicated that low birth weight and high plasma levels of irisin were recognized as predictive factors of elevated blood pressure levels. Conclusion: The positive correlation observed between circulating irisin and systolic blood pressure levels in children with low birth weight, despite their lower irisin levels, suggests a complex interplay between birth weight, irisin, cardiovascular regulation, and metabolic function. Understanding this relationship may require considering that irisin may play dual roles in different tissues, compensatory mechanisms, and the broader context of cardiometabolic programming in children with low birth weight.