Exploring the role of adipose tissue-derived hormones asprosin and leptin in the onset of depressive symptoms in newly diagnosed prediabetic individuals

Type 2 diabetes and depression are common chronic conditions that often co-occur, likely driven by complex mechanisms that are not yet fully understood. Chronic low-grade inflammation may serve as a shared underlying factor in both conditions. This study aimed to determine whether adipose tissue-derived hormones asprosin and leptin, particularly asprosin, which is associated with inflammatory cytokines in glucose metabolism dysregulation and has not been studied in this context—might influence the onset of depressive symptoms. 112 participants were recruited from drug-naïve individuals. Blood samples were collected, anthropometric data recorded, the Beck Depression/Anxiety Inventories administered. Adapted questions assessed physical and social activity, as well as sleep habits, to account for environmental factors. After applying the exclusion criteria, participants were divided into prediabetic (n = 32) and normoglycemic groups (n = 30). In the prediabetic group CRP was elevated (p < 0.001), with a positive correlation between asprosin and leptin (p < 0.001). Asprosin was positively correlated with TNF-α (p = 0.004), IL-6 (p = 0.002), and ESR (p < 0.001), and leptin with TNF-α (p = 0.008) and ESR (p = 0.018) but not with depressive symptoms or anxiety. Depressive symptoms were higher in prediabetic individuals with poor sleep quality. In groups with similar social and physical activity levels, poor sleep quality was associated with increased depressive symptoms. While asprosin and leptin correlated with higher inflammatory cytokines, they showed no significant association with depression, possibly due to the small sample size and early-stage evaluation. Larger studies are needed to confirm any potential link between these hormones and depression. • First study on asprosin, an adipose hormone, investigating its link to depression and anxiety. • During prediabetes: Asprosin linked to proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α & IL-6, demonstrating a correlation with inflammation. • The dual role of asprosin and leptin in glucose dysregulation and mood disorders requires further research from an interdisciplinary perspective.