Possible association of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels with trunk muscle deficits and decrease in energy expenditure in patients with or at risk for COPD: A pilot study

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with low muscle mass and function caused by malnutrition and physical inactivity. We aimed to investigate possible associations between serum biomarkers and clinical traits including computed tomography-derived muscle measurements and energy expenditure indices in COPD. Methods: Total energy expenditure (TEE) was measured by the doubly labeled water method, while physical activity level (PAL) was calculated as TEE/basal metabolic rate. Cross-sections and densities of pectoralis, rectus abdominis, and erector spinae muscles were measured. Serum biomarkers included adiponectin, insulin-like growth factor-1, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)- and low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-cholesterol (C). Results: HDL-C levels were significantly correlated with all muscle areas, densities, and TEE. Only LDL-C levels were correlated with PAL. Conclusions: HDL-C level was a potential biomarker for trunk muscle volumes and functions, as well as total energy expenditure in COPD.