BACKGROUND: Irisin, an exercise-induced myokine, is closely correlated with obesity and body mass index. Obesity is one risk factor of coronary artery disease (CAD). Therefore, the present study aimed to determine if serum irisin concentrations are correlated with the presence and severity of CAD.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Serum irisin concentrations were determined in 350 patients with CAD and in 214 healthy subjects. The severity of CAD was assessed by coronary atherosclerosis index (CAI).

RESULTS: Serum irisin concentrations were significantly lower in CAD patients compared with healthy controls. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that serum irisin concentrations were an independent determinant of the presence of CAD. In addition, Pearson correlation analysis showed that serum irisin concentrations were negatively correlated with CAI in CAD patients

CONCLUSIONS: Decreased serum irisin concentrations may be associated with the presence and severity of CAD.

Keywords: Coronary Artery Disease - blood, Case-Control Studies, Fibronectins - blood, Logistic Models, Severity of Illness Index, Smoking - blood