ESPE Yearbook of Paediatric Endocrinology

Prof Hochberg was an exceptional paediatrician, endocrinologist and paediatric endocrinologist. He had an inquisitive mind, interest in various and wide fields, love for music, operas, books and people. Even in the field of endocrinology, he always researched beyond the visible. His groundbreaking contributions to the field of paediatric endocrinology have left an indelible mark on the medical community.

Comment: To distinguish among children with obesity, between those with and without the metabolic syndrome, Professor Hochberg and his colleagues investigated the steroid metabolomic profile. They focused specifically on 31 steroid metabolites found in urine samples, using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. By collecting urine samples over a 24-hour period, they observed a notable distinction between the two groups. The metabolomic profile of children with compared to without insulin resistance exhibited significantly higher levels of steroids from all three adrenal pathways (adrenal androgens, glucocorticoids, and mineralocorticoids). Moreover, children with insulin resistance had heightened activities of 5α-reductase and 21-hydroxylase, but reduced activity of 11βHSD1. These findings effectively establish a strong correlation between insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia and increased production of adrenal steroids, thus suggesting that the adrenal glands are a target of insulin resistance or hyperinsulinemia.

This work reflects the scientific path of Professor Hochberg and his international collaboration. His research encompassed a wide range of projects, and excelled in providing comprehensive descriptions of diverse phenomena, while delving deeply into the fundamental processes underlying them.

Note, this paper was included in the 2020 Yearbook, highlighting its importance.