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Zimmermann A, Priebe J, Rupprecht H, Lang S, Haberland F, Schuster K, Staffeld A, Berger C, Zhu H, Dück A, Kölch M, Frintrop L. Changes in Circadian Rhythm in Chronically-Starved Mice Are Associated With Glial Cell Density Reduction in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus. Int J Eat Disord 2025; 58:756-769. [PMID: 39835540 PMCID: PMC11969035 DOI: 10.1002/eat.24379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2024] [Revised: 12/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2025] [Indexed: 01/22/2025]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Anorexia nervosa (AN) is an eating disorder characterized by severe weight loss and associated with hyperactivity and circadian rhythm disruption. However, the cellular basis of circadian rhythm disruption is poorly understood. Glial cells in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), the principal circadian pacemaker, are involved in regulating circadian rhythms. We hypothesize that the circadian rhythm disruption in AN patients is associated with glial cell changes in the SCN. METHOD In the starvation-induced hyperactivity mouse model, mice had free access to a running wheel and received a restricted amount of food once a day, until a 25% body weight loss was reached and maintained their weight loss for two weeks. This was followed by a refeeding phase. Different daily periods of running wheel activity were defined, such as food anticipatory activity up to 4 h before feeding. Circadian rhythmicity was analyzed using the cosinor method. Gene expression was evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction. Immunohistochemistry was used to quantify astrocytes, microglia, and oligodendrocytes. RESULTS Starvation induced changes in circadian rhythm, as indicated by changes in cosinor-based characteristics. Refeeding reversed these effects. Additionally, there was an increase in cryptochrome circadian regulator 1 expression and a decrease in the density of astrocytes and oligodendrocytes in the SCN after chronic starvation. DISCUSSION Starvation-induced alterations in circadian rhythms are associated with molecular, and cellular changes in the hypothalamus. Reduced astrocytes and oligodendrocytes in the SCN in a mouse model of AN suggest that glial pathophysiology may play a role in circadian rhythm disruption.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julia Priebe
- Institute of AnatomyRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
| | - Hanna Rupprecht
- Institute of AnatomyRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
| | - Stephan Lang
- Institute of AnatomyRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
| | | | | | - Anna Staffeld
- Institute of AnatomyRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
| | - Christoph Berger
- Department of Psychiatry, Neurology, Psychosomatics, and Psychotherapy in Childhood and AdolescenceRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
- German Center for Child and Adolescent Health (DZKJ)partner site Greifswald/RostockRostockGermany
| | - Hang Zhu
- Department of Psychiatry, Neurology, Psychosomatics, and Psychotherapy in Childhood and AdolescenceRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
- German Center for Child and Adolescent Health (DZKJ)partner site Greifswald/RostockRostockGermany
| | - Alexander Dück
- Department of Psychiatry, Neurology, Psychosomatics, and Psychotherapy in Childhood and AdolescenceRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
- German Center for Child and Adolescent Health (DZKJ)partner site Greifswald/RostockRostockGermany
| | - Michael Kölch
- Department of Psychiatry, Neurology, Psychosomatics, and Psychotherapy in Childhood and AdolescenceRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
- German Center for Child and Adolescent Health (DZKJ)partner site Greifswald/RostockRostockGermany
| | - Linda Frintrop
- Institute of AnatomyRostock University Medical CenterRostockGermany
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Breton É, Kaufmann T. An evolutionary perspective on the genetics of anorexia nervosa. Transl Psychiatry 2025; 15:59. [PMID: 39971893 PMCID: PMC11840024 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-025-03270-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 12/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2025] [Indexed: 02/21/2025] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) typically emerges around adolescence and predominantly affects females. Recent progress has been made in identifying biological correlates of AN, but more research is needed to pinpoint the specific mechanisms that lead to its development and maintenance. There is a known phenotypic link between AN, growth and sexual maturation, yet the genetic overlap between these phenotypes remains enigmatic. One may hypothesize that shared factors between AN, energy metabolism and reproductive functions may have been under recent evolutionary selection. Here, we characterize the genetic overlap between AN, BMI and age at menarche, and aimed to reveal recent evolutionary factors that may help explain the origin of AN. We obtained publicly available GWAS summary statistics of AN, BMI and age at menarche and studied the polygenic overlap between them. Next, we used Neandertal Selective Sweep scores to explore recent evolutionary selection. We found 22 loci overlapping between AN and BMI, and 9 loci between AN and age at menarche, with 7 of these not previously associated with AN. We found that loci associated with AN may have been under particular evolutionary dynamic. Chronobiology appeared relevant to the studied genetic overlaps and prone to recent evolutionary selection, offering a promising avenue for future research. Taken together, our findings contribute to the understanding of the genetic underpinning of AN. Ultimately, better knowledge of the biological origins of AN may help to target specific biological processes and facilitate early intervention in individuals who are most at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Édith Breton
- Centre for Precision Psychiatry, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
- Department of Fundamental Sciences, Université du Québec à Chicoutimi, Saguenay, QC, Canada.
| | - Tobias Kaufmann
- Centre for Precision Psychiatry, Division of Mental Health and Addiction, Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Tübingen Center for Mental Health, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), partner site Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
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Singh A, Negi PS. Appraising the role of biotics and fermented foods in gut microbiota modulation and sleep regulation. J Food Sci 2025; 90:e17634. [PMID: 39750017 DOI: 10.1111/1750-3841.17634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2024] [Revised: 12/10/2024] [Accepted: 12/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/04/2025]
Abstract
Sleep disturbances are increasingly prevalent, significantly impacting physical and mental health. Recent research reveals a bidirectional relationship between gut microbiota and sleep, mediated through the microbiota-gut-brain axis. This review examines the role of gut microbiota in sleep physiology and explores how biotics, including probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics, and fermented foods, can enhance sleep quality. Drawing from animal and human studies, we discuss neurobiological mechanisms by which biotics may influence sleep, including modulation of neurotransmitters, immune responses, and hormonal regulation. Key microbial metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, are highlighted for their role in supporting sleep-related neurochemical processes. Additionally, this review presents dietary strategies and food processing technologies, like fermentation, as innovative approaches for sleep enhancement. Although promising, the available research has limitations, including small sample sizes, variability in biotic strains and dosages, and reliance on subjective sleep assessments. This review underscores the need for standardized protocols, objective assessments such as polysomnography, and personalized biotic interventions. Emerging findings highlight the therapeutic potential of gut microbiota modulation for sleep improvement, though further large-scale human trials are essential to refine strain selection, dosage, and formulation. This interdisciplinary exploration seeks to advance food-based interventions and holistic strategies for managing sleep disorders and improving quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akanksha Singh
- Department of Fruit and Vegetable Technology, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru, India
| | - Pradeep Singh Negi
- Department of Fruit and Vegetable Technology, CSIR-Central Food Technological Research Institute, Mysuru, India
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Sun J, Chen J, Cicchella A. Correlation of Adiponectin and Leptin with Anthropometrics and Behavioral and Physical Performance in Overweight and Obese Chinese College Students. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:567. [PMID: 39194505 DOI: 10.3390/biology13080567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/29/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to assess the relationship of leptin (LEP) and adiponectin (ADPN) with other circulating fat markers, physical capacity, behaviors, and anthropometric indices in a population of overweight and obese Chinese university students. LEP and ADPN levels, as well as behavioral, anthropometric, biochemical, and performance characteristics, were measured. METHOD A total of 17 anthropometric parameters, 8 questionnaires (investigating quality of life, sleep, eating, perceived functioning, stress, and depression), 9 biochemical parameters, and 12 functional parameters were investigated. RESULTS In contrast to previous studies, our work found an unusually strong relationship between LEP and ADPN (r = 0.961, p = 0.000) that can be related to ethnicity. We also found that LEP and ADPN were associated with stress and bodily pain. A total of 12 anthropometric measures were also associated with LEP/ADNP levels. Moreover, LEP and ADPN were found to be related to lower limb, hand, and abdominal strength; blood pressure; and basic metabolism. However, we did not find associations with sleep; eating habits; or cardiovascular fitness, which was measured in the form of resting heart rate and VO2max. CONCLUSION This study reveals new relationships of LEP and ADPN with selected anthropometric and behavioral parameters in obese Chinese college students.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingyu Sun
- Sports and Health Research Center, Department of Physical Education, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Jiajia Chen
- Sports and Health Research Center, Department of Physical Education, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Antonio Cicchella
- International College of Football, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
- Department for Quality of Life Studies, Bologna University, 40127 Bologna, Italy
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Hebebrand J, Antel J, Peters T. Case report: clinical improvements observed in first off-label metreleptin treatment of a patient with atypical anorexia nervosa. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024; 33:2267-2272. [PMID: 37874404 PMCID: PMC11255063 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-023-02315-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Off-label metreleptin treatment resulted in cognitive, emotional and behavioral improvements of patients with anorexia nervosa, who presented with hypoleptinemia. We now report a case study of a 16-year-old female patient with atypical anorexia nervosa who was treated off-label with metreleptin for 11 days. She had lost 21 kg over 6 months. Her body mass index at referral for inpatient treatment was 20 kg/m2, her serum leptin level was just within the normal range (2.4 ng/ml). Dosing resulted in prominent improvements of mood and weight phobia entailing a comparatively brief inpatient treatment. The observed improvements are similar to those observed in patients with AN, suggesting overlapping mechanisms with respect to clinical effects induced by elevations of absolute or relative hypoleptinemia. Randomized controlled trials are warranted for both eating disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Hebebrand
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Essen (AöR), University of Duisburg-Essen, Wickenburgstrasse 21, 45147, Essen, Germany
- Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jochen Antel
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Essen (AöR), University of Duisburg-Essen, Wickenburgstrasse 21, 45147, Essen, Germany
- Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Triinu Peters
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Essen (AöR), University of Duisburg-Essen, Wickenburgstrasse 21, 45147, Essen, Germany.
- Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
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Hebebrand J, Plieger M, Milos G, Peters T, Hinney A, Antel J. Does hypoleptinemia trigger entrapment in anorexia nervosa? Etiological and clinical considerations. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2024; 32:557-574. [PMID: 38303556 DOI: 10.1002/erv.3071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
Based on the recent observation that human recombinant leptin (r-Met-hu-leptin; metreleptin) may induce a profound alleviation of the complex symptomatology of patients with anorexia nervosa (AN), we examine the implications for our conceptualisation of this eating disorder. Hypoleptinemia as a core endocrine feature of AN serves as a central and peripheral trigger of tissue-specific adaptations to starvation. In this narrative review, we argue that leptin deficiency may explain many of the puzzling features of this eating disorder. Weight loss can be viewed as a two-step process, with only the second step entailing hypoleptinemia and thereby the entrapment characteristic of AN. We discuss the central and peripheral distribution of leptin receptors and consider possible functional implications of hypoleptinemia. We contrast the slow psychological recovery of patients with AN and of people who experienced starvation upon weight recovery with the rapid onset of improvements upon off-label metreleptin treatment. Characteristics of the sex and age dependent secretion of leptin may contribute to the elevated vulnerability of young females to develop AN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Hebebrand
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Centre for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Gabriella Milos
- Department of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine, University Hospital of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Triinu Peters
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Centre for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Anke Hinney
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Centre for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jochen Antel
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Centre for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Li J, Zhou K, Chen X, Lu X, Kong D. Correlation between serum leptin level and sleep monitoring indexes in patients with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome and its predictive value: a cross-sectional analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1346195. [PMID: 38711782 PMCID: PMC11070583 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1346195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the association between serum leptin (LP) level and polysomnography (PSG) parameters in patients with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted. The data of subjects who underwent PSG at hospital between January 2021 and December 2022 were collected retrospectively, 220 participants were included. The subjects were categorized into simple snoring group (n = 45), mild OSAHS group (n = 63), moderate OSAHS group (n = 52), and severe OSAHS group (n = 60). The general characteristics, PSG indices, and serological indices were collected retrospectively. Pearson correlation analysis was used to observe the correlation between serum LP level and PSG parameters. The value of serum LP level in predicting OSAHS was analyzed by receiver operating characteristic curve. Results The serum LP level was positively correlated with micro-arousal count, micro-arousal index (MAI), high apnea hypopnea index, times of blood oxygen decreased by≥3% and time in saturation lower 90%, and negatively correlated with lowest nocturnal oxygen saturation and mean oxygen saturation (p < 0.05). The area under the curve (AUC) of serum LP level in predicting the occurrence of OSAHS was 0.8276 (95% CI: 0.7713-0.8839), and when the Youden index was 0.587, the sensitivity was 72.00%, and the specificity was 86.67% (p < 0.0001). In the population with high MAI, the AUC of serum LP level in predicting the occurrence of OSAHS was 0.8825 (95% CI: 0.7833-0.9817), and when the Youden index was 0.690, the sensitivity was 79.00% and the specificity was 90.00% (p < 0.0001). Conclusion Serum LP level is associated with the severity of OSAHS. Serum LP level demonstrates a strong predictive value for the occurrence of OSAHS, particularly in population with high MAI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Li
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Kejing Zhou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Ningbo Yinzhou No.2 Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xing Chen
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Xu Lu
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
| | - Deqiu Kong
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China
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Bahnsen K, Wronski M, Keeler JL, King JA, Preusker Q, Kolb T, Weidner K, Roessner V, Bernardoni F, Ehrlich S. Differential longitudinal changes of hippocampal subfields in patients with anorexia nervosa. Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2024; 78:186-196. [PMID: 38018338 PMCID: PMC11488614 DOI: 10.1111/pcn.13626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a mental disorder characterized by dietary restriction, fear of gaining weight, and distorted body image. Recent studies indicate that the hippocampus, crucial for learning and memory, may be affected in AN, yet subfield-specific effects remain unclear. We investigated hippocampal subfield alterations in acute AN, changes following weight restoration, and their associations with leptin levels. METHODS T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging scans were processed using FreeSurfer. We compared 22 left and right hemispheric hippocampal subfield volumes cross-sectionally and longitudinally in females with acute AN (n = 165 at baseline, n = 110 after partial weight restoration), healthy female controls (HCs; n = 271), and females after long-term recovery from AN (n = 79) using linear models. RESULTS We found that most hippocampal subfield volumes were significantly reduced in patients with AN compared with HCs (~-3.9%). Certain areas such as the subiculum exhibited no significant reduction in the acute state of AN, while other areas, such as the hippocampal tail, showed strong decreases (~-9%). Following short-term weight recovery, most subfields increased in volume. Comparisons between participants after long-term weight-recovery and HC yielded no differences. The hippocampal tail volume was positively associated with leptin levels in AN independent of body mass index. CONCLUSIONS Our study provides evidence of differential volumetric differences in hippocampal subfields between individuals with AN and HC and almost complete normalization after weight rehabilitation. These alterations are spatially inhomogeneous and more pronounced compared with other major mental disorders (e.g. major depressive disorder and schizophrenia). We provide novel insights linking hypoleptinemia to hippocampal subfield alterations hinting towards clinical relevance of leptin normalization in AN recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaas Bahnsen
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neuroscience, Faculty of MedicineTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Marie‐Louis Wronski
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neuroscience, Faculty of MedicineTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of MedicineMassachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Johanna Louise Keeler
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neuroscience, Faculty of MedicineTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Joseph A. King
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neuroscience, Faculty of MedicineTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Quirina Preusker
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neuroscience, Faculty of MedicineTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Theresa Kolb
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neuroscience, Faculty of MedicineTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Kerstin Weidner
- Department of Psychotherapy and Psychosomatic Medicine, Faculty of MedicineTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Veit Roessner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of MedicineTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Fabio Bernardoni
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neuroscience, Faculty of MedicineTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Stefan Ehrlich
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neuroscience, Faculty of MedicineTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
- Eating Disorder Research and Treatment Center, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of MedicineTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
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Hebebrand J, Antel J, von Piechowski L, Kiewert C, Stüve B, Gradl-Dietsch G. Case report: Rapid improvements of anorexia nervosa and probable myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome upon metreleptin treatment during two dosing episodes. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1267495. [PMID: 38025476 PMCID: PMC10666640 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1267495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
A comorbidity of anorexia nervosa (AN) and myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME/CSF) is uncommon. A 17 years-old male adolescent with possible onset of ME/CFS after an Epstein Barr Virus infection (EBV) and later onset of AN during a second period of weight loss was twice treated off-label with metreleptin for 15 and 11 days, respectively. As in previous cases, eating disorder specific cognitions and mood improved. Interestingly, fatigue and post-exertional muscle pain (P-EMP) improved, too. We discuss potential mechanisms. Treatment with metreleptin may prove beneficial in AN and in ME/CSF associated with substantial weight loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Hebebrand
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Jochen Antel
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Linda von Piechowski
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital Münster, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Cordula Kiewert
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology, Department of Pediatrics II, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Burkhard Stüve
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, Centre for Neuromuscular Disorders, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- Department of Neuropediatrics, DRK Children’s Hospital, Siegen, Germany
| | - Gertraud Gradl-Dietsch
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Smith LL. Similarities and differences regarding acute anorexia nervosa and semi-starvation: does behavioral thermoregulation play a central role? Front Behav Neurosci 2023; 17:1243572. [PMID: 37953827 PMCID: PMC10634530 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2023.1243572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To clarify the association between acute anorexia nervosa (AN) and semi-starvation (SS) by focusing on similarities and differences in physiology, mood, and behavior. Method A comparison of published literature between these two groups. Results Both groups show similar hormonal and metabolic changes in response to caloric restriction and extreme weight loss (~25%). Associated changes result in a reduced body temperature (Tcore-low). Maintenance of body temperature within a specific range is crucial to survival. However, both groups cannot activate autonomic strategies to maintain their Tcore-low, such as increasing metabolic rate, constricting skin blood vessels, or shivering. Furthermore, Tcore-low increases the individuals' "coldness sensations" throughout the body, hence the frequent reports from ANs and SSs of "feeling cold." To eliminate these uncomfortable "coldness sensations" and, importantly, to maintain Tcore-low, ANs, and SSs "select" different thermoregulatory behavioral strategies. It is proposed that the primary differences between AN and SS, based on genetics, now manifest due to the "selection" of different thermo-regulatory behaviors. AN patients (ANs) "select" hyperactive behavior (HyAc), which increases internal metabolic heat and thus assists with maintaining Tcore-low; in harmony with hyperactive behavior is a lively mood. Also related to this elevated arousal pattern, ANs experience disrupted sleep. In contrast, SS individuals "select" a passive thermo-behavioral strategy, "shallow torpor," which includes reduced activity, resulting in energy conservation. In addition, this inactivity aids in the retention of generated metabolic heat. Corresponding to this lethargic behavior, SS individuals display a listless mood and increased sleep. Conclusion Initial similarities between the two are attributable to physiological changes related to extreme weight loss. Differences are most likely attributable to genetically programmed "selection" of alternate thermoregulatory strategies, primarily to maintain Tcore-low. However, if acute AN is prolonged and evolves into a chronic condition, AN will more closely align with starvation and more precisely reflect SS symptomology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucille Lakier Smith
- Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, School of Health Sciences, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, United States
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