Enhanced soluble CD40L in patients with the metabolic syndrome: relationship with in vivo thrombin generation

Aims/hypothesis: The metabolic syndrome is associated with proinflammatory and prothrombotic states. This study was designed to assess the behaviour of soluble CD40 ligand (sCD40L) and prothrombin fragment F1+2, a marker of thrombin generation, in patients with the metabolic syndrome. Methods: We investigated 106 patients with the metabolic syndrome, diagnosed according to the ATPIII report, and 104 subjects without the metabolic syndrome. Results: Plasma values of sCD40L and F (1+2) were higher in patients with the metabolic syndrome (4.11 +/- 1.64 vs 2.61 +/- 0.89 ng/ml and 1.54 +/- 0.49 vs 0.87 +/- 0.21 nmol/l, respectively; p < 0.001) and were significantly correlated (r=0.925, p < 0.001). Stepwise multiple linear regression analysis showed that sCD40L was significantly associated with F1+2, female sex and waist circumference. Conclusions/interpretation: Patients with the metabolic syndrome have enhanced values of plasma sCD40L and F1+2. The study provides further insight into the relationship between metabolic syndrome, inflammation and thrombosis.