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Keeler JL, Kan C, Treasure J, Himmerich H. Novel treatments for anorexia nervosa: Insights from neuroplasticity research. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2024; 32:1069-1084. [PMID: 37823233 DOI: 10.1002/erv.3039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Treatment for anorexia nervosa (AN) remains challenging; there are no approved psychopharmacological interventions and psychotherapeutic strategies have variable efficacy. The investigation of evidence-based treatments has so far been compounded by an underdeveloped understanding into the neurobiological changes associated with the acute stages of AN. There is converging evidence of deficiencies in neuroplasticity in AN. METHOD This paper provides an overview of neuroimaging, neuropsychological, molecular and qualitative findings relating to neuroplasticity in AN, translating these findings to the identification of novel biological and psychotherapeutic strategies. RESULTS Novel psychopharmacological approaches that may ameliorate deficiencies in neuroplasticity include medications such as ketamine, psilocybin and human recombinant leptin. Anti-inflammatory medications and brain-derived neurotrophic factor mimetics may emerge as potential treatments following further research. Psychotherapeutic strategies that may target neuroplastic deficiencies, as well as having wider effects on identity, include imagery rescripting, memory specificity training, cognitive remediation therapy, exposure therapies, narrative therapies, cultural interventions (e.g. music and arts therapies) and yoga/mindfulness-based interventions. CONCLUSIONS Treatments specifically targeted towards mitigating the neurobiological sequalae of AN are warranted, and emerging neurobiological and neuropsychological research utilising longitudinal designs and large sample sizes, as well as initial feasibility studies, are necessitated to bolster translational efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Louise Keeler
- King's College London, Centre for Research in Eating and Weight Disorders (CREW), Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Kent, UK
| | - Carol Kan
- Vincent Square Eating Disorder Service, London, UK
| | - Janet Treasure
- King's College London, Centre for Research in Eating and Weight Disorders (CREW), Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Kent, UK
| | - Hubertus Himmerich
- King's College London, Centre for Research in Eating and Weight Disorders (CREW), Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, Department of Psychological Medicine, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Kent, UK
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Dani C, Tarchi L, Cassioli E, Rossi E, Merola GP, Ficola A, Cordasco VZ, Ricca V, Castellini G. A transdiagnostic and diagnostic-specific approach on inflammatory biomarkers in eating disorders: A meta-analysis and systematic review. Psychiatry Res 2024; 340:116115. [PMID: 39128168 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2024.116115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/13/2024]
Abstract
Eating disorders (EDs) are severe mental illnesses with a multifactorial etiology and a chronic course. Among the biological factors related to pathogenesis and maintenance of EDs, inflammation acquired growing scientific interest. This study aimed to assess the inflammatory profile of EDs, focusing on anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and including for the first time binge eating disorder. A comprehensive research of existing literature identified 51 eligible studies for meta-analysis, comparing levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), osteoprotegerin (OPG), soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (sRANKL), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-10 (IL-10) between patients with EDs and healthy controls (HCs). The systematic review explored other inflammatory biomarkers of interest, which did not meet the meta-analysis criteria. Results revealed significantly elevated levels of TNF-α, OPG, sRANKL, and IL-1β in patients with EDs compared to HCs. Additionally, the results highlighted the heterogeneity of inflammatory state among patients with EDs, emphasizing the need for further research into the association between inflammatory biomarkers and psychopathological correlates. This approach should transcend categorical diagnoses, enabling more precise subcategorizations of patients. Overall, this study contributed to the understanding of the inflammatory pathways involved in EDs, emphasizing potential implications for diagnosis, staging, and targeted interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiano Dani
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Livio Tarchi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Emanuele Cassioli
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Eleonora Rossi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Arianna Ficola
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | | | - Valdo Ricca
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Spero V, Scherma M, D'Amelio S, Collu R, Dedoni S, Camoglio C, Siddi C, Fratta W, Molteni R, Fadda P. Activity-based anorexia (ABA) model: Effects on brain neuroinflammation, redox balance and neuroplasticity during the acute phase. Neurochem Int 2024; 180:105842. [PMID: 39244038 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2024.105842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/25/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
Several evidences suggest that immuno-inflammatory responses are involved in the pathogenesis of anorexia nervosa (AN). Herein we investigate the possible alteration of key mediators of inflammation, redox balance, and neuroplasticity in the brain of rats showing an anorexic-like phenotype. We modeled AN in adolescent female rats using the activity-based anorexia (ABA) paradigm and measured gene expression levels of targets of interest in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and dorsal hippocampus (DH). We observed reduced mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α, the inflammasome NLRP3, and the microglial marker CD11b in both PFC and DH of ABA animals. Conversely, the mRNA of IL-6, which acts as both a pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine, was increased. Moreover, we observed an overall upregulation of different antioxidant enzymes in PFC, while their profile was not affected or opposite in the DH, with the exception of MT1α. Interestingly, ABA animals showed elevated levels of the neuroplasticity marker BDNF in both PFC and DH. Our data indicate that ABA induction is associated with anatomical-specific cerebral alteration of mediators of neuroinflammation, oxidative balance and neuroplasticity. Although more research should be conducted, these results add important information about the role of these systems in the complex AN etiopathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Spero
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Scherma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Sabrina D'Amelio
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Collu
- Department of Pharmacology, Physiology and Biophysics, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA; Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Bedford VA Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Simona Dedoni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Chiara Camoglio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Carlotta Siddi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Walter Fratta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Raffaella Molteni
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Fadda
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Division of Neuroscience and Clinical Pharmacology, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; CNR Institute of Neuroscience - Cagliari, National Research Council, Cagliari, Italy.
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4
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Keeler JL, Bahnsen K, Wronski ML, Bernardoni F, Tam F, Arold D, King JA, Kolb T, Poitz DM, Roessner V, Treasure J, Himmerich H, Ehrlich S. Longitudinal changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) but not cytokines contribute to hippocampal recovery in anorexia nervosa above increases in body mass index. Psychol Med 2024; 54:2242-2253. [PMID: 38450444 DOI: 10.1017/s0033291724000394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical sequelae of anorexia nervosa (AN) include a marked reduction in whole brain volume and subcortical structures such as the hippocampus. Previous research has indicated aberrant levels of inflammatory markers and growth factors in AN, which in other populations have been shown to influence hippocampal integrity. METHODS Here we investigated the influence of concentrations of two pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF-α] and interleukin-6 [IL-6]) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) on the whole hippocampal volume, as well as the volumes of three regions (the hippocampal body, head, and tail) and 18 subfields bilaterally. Investigations occurred both cross-sectionally between acutely underweight adolescent/young adult females with AN (acAN; n = 82) and people recovered from AN (recAN; n = 20), each independently pairwise age-matched with healthy controls (HC), and longitudinally in acAN after partial renourishment (n = 58). Hippocampal subfield volumes were quantified using FreeSurfer. Concentrations of molecular factors were analyzed in linear models with hippocampal (subfield) volumes as the dependent variable. RESULTS Cross-sectionally, there was no evidence for an association between IL-6, TNF-α, or BDNF and between-group differences in hippocampal subfield volumes. Longitudinally, increasing concentrations of BDNF were positively associated with longitudinal increases in bilateral global hippocampal volumes after controlling for age, age2, estimated total intracranial volume, and increases in body mass index (BMI). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that increases in BDNF may contribute to global hippocampal recovery over and above increases in BMI during renourishment. Investigations into treatments targeted toward increasing BDNF in AN may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Louise Keeler
- Centre for Research in Eating and Weight Disorders (CREW), Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Klaas Bahnsen
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marie-Louis Wronski
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Fabio Bernardoni
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Friederike Tam
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Eating Disorder Treatment and Research Center, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Dominic Arold
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Joseph A King
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Theresa Kolb
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - David M Poitz
- Institute for Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Veit Roessner
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Janet Treasure
- Centre for Research in Eating and Weight Disorders (CREW), Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Hubertus Himmerich
- Centre for Research in Eating and Weight Disorders (CREW), Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Stefan Ehrlich
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Eating Disorder Treatment and Research Center, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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5
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Elwyn R, Mitchell J, Kohn MR, Driver C, Hay P, Lagopoulos J, Hermens DF. Novel ketamine and zinc treatment for anorexia nervosa and the potential beneficial interactions with the gut microbiome. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2023; 148:105122. [PMID: 36907256 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2023.105122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 03/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe illness with diverse aetiological and maintaining contributors including neurobiological, metabolic, psychological, and social determining factors. In addition to nutritional recovery, multiple psychological and pharmacological therapies and brain-based stimulations have been explored; however, existing treatments have limited efficacy. This paper outlines a neurobiological model of glutamatergic and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-ergic dysfunction, exacerbated by chronic gut microbiome dysbiosis and zinc depletion at a brain and gut level. The gut microbiome is established early in development, and early exposure to stress and adversity contribute to gut microbial disturbance in AN, early dysregulation to glutamatergic and GABAergic networks, interoceptive impairment, and inhibited caloric harvest from food (e.g., zinc malabsorption, competition for zinc ions between gut bacteria and host). Zinc is a key part of glutamatergic and GABAergic networks, and also affects leptin and gut microbial function; systems dysregulated in AN. Low doses of ketamine in conjunction with zinc, could provide an efficacious combination to act on NMDA receptors and normalise glutamatergic, GABAergic and gut function in AN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosiel Elwyn
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, QLD, Australia; SouthWest Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, NSW, Australia.
| | - Jules Mitchell
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, QLD, Australia; SouthWest Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Michael R Kohn
- AYA Medicine Westmead Hospital, CRASH (Centre for Research into Adolescent's Health) Western Sydney Local Health District, Sydney University, Australia; SouthWest Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Christina Driver
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, QLD, Australia; SouthWest Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Phillipa Hay
- Translational Health Research Institute (THRI) School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia; SouthWest Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Jim Lagopoulos
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, QLD, Australia; SouthWest Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Daniel F Hermens
- Thompson Institute, University of the Sunshine Coast, Birtinya, QLD, Australia; SouthWest Sydney Local Health District, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
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6
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Trinh S, Keller L, Herpertz-Dahlmann B, Seitz J. The role of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in anorexia nervosa. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2023; 151:106069. [PMID: 36878115 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023]
Abstract
The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a growth factor belonging to the neurotrophin family which plays a pivotal role in the differentiation, survival, and plasticity of neurons in the central nervous system. Evidence suggests that BDNF is an important signal molecule in the regulation of energy balance and thus implicated in body weight control. The discovery of BDNF-expressing neurons in the paraventricular hypothalamus which is important in the regulation of energy intake, physical activity, and thermogenesis gives more evidence to the suggested participation of BDNF in eating behavior. Until now it remains questionable whether BDNF can be used as a reliable biomarker for eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa (AN) as available findings on BDNF levels in patients with AN are ambiguous. AN is an eating disorder characterized by a pathological low body weight in combination with a body image disturbance typically developing during adolescence. A severe drive for thinness leads to restrictive eating behavior often accompanied by physical hyperactivity. During therapeutic weight restoration an increase of BDNF expression levels seems desirable as it might improve neuronal plasticity and survival which is essential for learning processes and thereby essential for the success of the psychotherapeutic treatment of patients. On the contrary, the well-known anorexigenic effect of BDNF might favor relapse in patients as soon as the BDNF levels significantly increase during weight rehabilitation. The present review summarizes the association between BDNF and general eating behavior and especially focuses on the eating disorder AN. In this regard findings from preclinical AN studies (activity-based anorexia model) are outlined as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie Trinh
- Institute for Neuroanatomy, University Hospital, RWTH University Aachen, Wendlingweg 2, Aachen D-52074, Germany.
| | - Lara Keller
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, RWTH University Aachen, Neuenhofer Weg 21, Aachen D-52074, Germany.
| | - Beate Herpertz-Dahlmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, RWTH University Aachen, Neuenhofer Weg 21, Aachen D-52074, Germany.
| | - Jochen Seitz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, RWTH University Aachen, Neuenhofer Weg 21, Aachen D-52074, Germany.
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Gliwińska A, Czubilińska-Łada J, Więckiewicz G, Świętochowska E, Badeński A, Dworak M, Szczepańska M. The Role of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) in Diagnosis and Treatment of Epilepsy, Depression, Schizophrenia, Anorexia Nervosa and Alzheimer's Disease as Highly Drug-Resistant Diseases: A Narrative Review. Brain Sci 2023; 13:brainsci13020163. [PMID: 36831706 PMCID: PMC9953867 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13020163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 01/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) belongs to the family of neurotrophins, which are growth factors with trophic effects on neurons. BDNF is the most widely distributed neurotrophin in the central nervous system (CNS) and is highly expressed in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus. Its distribution outside the CNS has also been demonstrated, but most studies have focused on its effects in neuropsychiatric disorders. Despite the advances in medicine in recent decades, neurological and psychiatric diseases are still characterized by high drug resistance. This review focuses on the use of BDNF in the developmental assessment, treatment monitoring, and pharmacotherapy of selected diseases, with a particular emphasis on epilepsy, depression, anorexia, obesity, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's disease. The limitations of using a molecule with such a wide distribution range and inconsistent method of determination are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Gliwińska
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-32-370-43-05; Fax: +48-32-370-42-92
| | - Justyna Czubilińska-Łada
- Department of Neonatal Intensive Care, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Gniewko Więckiewicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Świętochowska
- Department of Medical and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Andrzej Badeński
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Marta Dworak
- Department of Pediatric Nephrology with Dialysis Division for Children, Independent Public Clinical Hospital No. 1, 41-800 Zabrze, Poland
| | - Maria Szczepańska
- Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
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Mottarlini F, Rizzi B, Targa G, Fumagalli F, Caffino L. Long-lasting BDNF signaling alterations in the amygdala of adolescent female rats exposed to the activity-based anorexia model. Front Behav Neurosci 2022; 16:1087075. [PMID: 36570702 PMCID: PMC9772010 DOI: 10.3389/fnbeh.2022.1087075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe psychiatric disorder characterized by a pathological fear of gaining weight, excessive physical exercise, and emotional instability. Since the amygdala is a key region for emotion processing and BDNF has been shown to play a critical role in this process, we hypothesized that alteration in the amygdalar BDNF system might underline vulnerability traits typical of AN patients. Methods: To this end, adolescent female rats have been exposed to the Activity-Based Anorexia (ABA) protocol, characterized by the combination of caloric restriction and intense physical exercise. Results: The induction of the anorexic phenotype caused hyperactivity and body weight loss in ABA animals. These changes were paralleled by amygdalar hyperactivation, as measured by the up-regulation of cfos mRNA levels. In the acute phase of the pathology, we observed reduced Bdnf exon IX, exon IV, and exon VI gene expression, while mBDNF protein levels were enhanced, an increase that was, instead, uncoupled from its downstream signaling as the phosphorylation of TrkB, Akt, and S6 in ABA rats were reduced. Despite the body weight recovery observed 7 days later, the BDNF-mediated signaling was still downregulated at this time point. Discussion: Our findings indicate that the BDNF system is downregulated in the amygdala of adolescent female rats under these experimental conditions, which mimic the anorexic phenotype in humans, pointing to such dysregulation as a potential contributor to the altered emotional processing observed in AN patients. In addition, since the modulation of BDNF levels is observed in other psychiatric conditions, the persistent AN-induced changes of the BDNF system in the amygdala might contribute to explaining the onset of comorbid psychiatric disorders that persist in patients even beyond recovery from AN.
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Gukasyan N, Schreyer CC, Griffiths RR, Guarda AS. Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy for People with Eating Disorders. Curr Psychiatry Rep 2022; 24:767-775. [PMID: 36374357 DOI: 10.1007/s11920-022-01394-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW A growing body of research suggests psychedelic-assisted therapy (PAT) may be safe and effective for a variety of mental health conditions. Among these, eating disorders have been a recent target of interest. This review provides an up-to-date summary of the potential mechanisms and use of PAT in people diagnosed with eating disorders, with a focus on anorexia nervosa. RECENT FINDINGS Classic psychedelics may have transdiagnostic efficacy through several mechanisms relevant to eating disorder pathology. Interest in, and efforts to increase access to PAT are both high. Early clinical trials are focused on establishing the safety and utility of this treatment in eating disorders, and efficacy remains unclear. High-quality published data to support the use of PAT for people with eating disorders remains lacking. Recent studies however suggest PAT has the potential to augment the efficacy of current interventions for these difficult-to-treat conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Gukasyan
- Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA.
| | - Colleen C Schreyer
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Roland R Griffiths
- Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, 5510 Nathan Shock Drive, Baltimore, MD, 21224, USA
| | - Angela S Guarda
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
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10
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Restrained eating behaviour, anorexia nervosa and food consumption between children and adolescents: a scoping review. Br J Nutr 2022; 128:1565-1586. [PMID: 34658329 DOI: 10.1017/s0007114521004219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) and restrained eating behaviour (REB) are characterised by reduced food intake to achieve body weight loss. This scope review aimed to describe the existing evidence on the association between AN, restrictive eating behaviour and food consumption. Studies with children and adolescents of both sexes of all races and ethnicities were included. Experimental and observational studies, systematic reviews, meta-analysis, case reports or series, conference abstracts, dissertations and theses were also included. The search was conducted in ten electronic databases and grey literature without language restriction on 14 November 2020. Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. Most studies included girls and identified lower intake of energy content, fat and certain micronutrients. There was also a higher intake of caffeine, fibre, vegetables, legumes and fruits and a lower intake of low-quality snack, fast food, sweets and foods with high carbohydrate and fat contents. The need to improve the quality of the diet among study participants was also identified. Thus, it is recommended that the evaluation of food consumption be careful to develop effective prevention strategies for the development of AN/REB and minimise nutritional deficiencies in these individuals.
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11
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Keeler JL, Robinson L, Keeler-Schäffeler R, Dalton B, Treasure J, Himmerich H. Growth factors in anorexia nervosa: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cross-sectional and longitudinal data. World J Biol Psychiatry 2022; 23:582-600. [PMID: 34875968 DOI: 10.1080/15622975.2021.2015432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Growth factors are signalling molecules that play roles in the survival, proliferation, migration, and differentiation of cells. Studies have found alterations in specific growth factors in anorexia nervosa (AN). METHODS This systematic review and meta-analysis examined articles from three databases, measuring growth factors in AN cross-sectionally and longitudinally, and in recovered AN (rec-AN) cross-sectionally. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted for brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and insulin growth factor-I (IGF-1) for cross-sectional and longitudinal studies. RESULTS A total of 82 studies were included: 56 cross-sectional (BDNF: n = 15; IGF-1: n = 41) and 24 longitudinal (BDNF: n = 5; IGF-1: n = 19) were meta-analysed and 20 studies were narratively synthesised. In cross-sectional analyses, BDNF and IGF-1 were lower in AN compared to controls, and BDNF was marginally greater in rec-AN compared to controls. In longitudinal meta-analyses, BDNF and IGF-1 increased from baseline to follow-up. Cross-sectional subgroup analyses revealed no differences in BDNF between controls and AN binge-eating/purging subtypes. CONCLUSIONS It is likely that the low BDNF and IGF-1 levels found in AN are consequences of starvation, which are reversible with weight restoration. The increase in BDNF and IGF-1 during therapeutic weight restoration might improve neuroplasticity, which is the basis of learning, and thus psychotherapeutic success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Louise Keeler
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Lauren Robinson
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | | | - Bethan Dalton
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Janet Treasure
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Hubertus Himmerich
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
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12
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Steinhäuser JL, Wronski ML, Keeler JL, Ehrlich S, King JA. Barking up the wrong biomarker? Correspondence to Shobeiri et al. (2022) "Serum and plasma levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in individuals with eating disorders (EDs): a systematic review and meta-analysis". J Eat Disord 2022; 10:141. [PMID: 36104758 PMCID: PMC9476306 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-022-00662-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite intensified research efforts into the underlying (neuro-)biology of eating disorders (EDs), only few reliable biomarkers of diagnostic or prognostic value have been identified to date. One promising line of research has focused on the role of peripheral blood-based biomarkers as potential contributors to the complex pathophysiology of EDs. One such candidate marker is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neurotrophin broadly implicated in neuronal plasticity and food-intake regulation. A growing number of studies have targeted BDNF in EDs; culminating in several recent well-powered and controlled case-control studies, comprehensive meta-analyses, and review articles. In the current correspondence, we aim to put the recent meta-analysis of Shobeiri et al. (J Eat Disord 10(1):105, 2022) into perspective and argue that the finding suggestive of lower BDNF concentrations across individuals with EDs in comparison to healthy controls needs to be interpreted with caution. While this finding is compatible with those from earlier meta-analyses, it may be biased due to several reasons; most notably by the applied study selection procedures, insufficient consideration of influential determinants of BDNF concentrations, and generalization of results across the ED spectrum without sufficient statistical power. Further controlled and comprehensive studies are necessary to establish BDNF as a clinically informative biomarker of EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas L Steinhäuser
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Marie-Louis Wronski
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Johanna L Keeler
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.,Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Stefan Ehrlich
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany.
| | - Joseph A King
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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13
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Shobeiri P, Bagherieh S, Mirzayi P, Kalantari A, Mirmosayyeb O, Teixeira AL, Rezaei N. Serum and plasma levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in individuals with eating disorders (EDs): a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Eat Disord 2022; 10:105. [PMID: 35850718 PMCID: PMC9295529 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-022-00630-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is essential for neuronal survival, differentiation, development, and plasticity. Evidence suggests that fluctuations in peripheral levels (i.e., plasma or serum) of BDNF are associated with eating behaviors. Nevertheless, the findings are inconsistent. The purpose of this study is to determine if serum or plasma levels of BDNF are altered in individuals with eating disorders (EDs) compared to controls. METHODS We conducted a systematic search of the core electronic medical databases from inception to March 2022 and identified observational studies that compared individuals with EDs to controls without EDs on serum or plasma levels of BDNF. R version 4.0.4 was used for all visualizations and calculations. RESULTS The current meta-analysis comprised 15 studies that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Subjects with EDs (n = 795) showed lower BDNF levels compared to non-EDs controls (n = 552) (SMD: - 0.49, 95% CI [- 0.89; - 0.08], p-value = 0.01). Moreover, subgroup analysis was conducted based on the specimen (plasma and serum), which revealed no statistically significant difference in the levels of BDNF between the two subgroups (p-value = 0.92). Additionally, meta-regression results revealed that publication year, mean age of the individuals with EDs, NOS scores, and the number of individuals with EDs collectively accounted for 25.99% percent of the existing heterogeneity. CONCLUSION Lower BDNF levels are associated with EDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parnian Shobeiri
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Children's Medical Center Hospital, Dr. Qarib St., Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran, 14194, Iran
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Pediatrics Center of Excellence, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Dr. Gharib St, Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sara Bagherieh
- School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Esfahān, Iran
| | - Parsa Mirzayi
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Children's Medical Center Hospital, Dr. Qarib St., Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran, 14194, Iran
- Students' Scientific Research Center (SSRC), Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amirali Kalantari
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Children's Medical Center Hospital, Dr. Qarib St., Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran, 14194, Iran
| | - Omid Mirmosayyeb
- Isfahan Neuroscience Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Esfahān, Iran
| | - Antônio L Teixeira
- Neuropsychiatry Program, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Nima Rezaei
- Network of Immunity in Infection, Malignancy and Autoimmunity (NIIMA), Universal Scientific Education and Research Network (USERN), Tehran, Iran.
- Research Center for Immunodeficiencies, Pediatrics Center of Excellence, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Dr. Gharib St, Keshavarz Blvd, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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14
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Keeler JL, Patsalos O, Chung R, Schmidt U, Breen G, Treasure J, Hubertus H, Dalton B. Short communication: Serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor and association with pro-inflammatory cytokines in acute and recovered anorexia nervosa. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 150:34-39. [PMID: 35349796 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.03.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a neuroprotective molecule known to be involved in neuroplasticity, learning and memory. Additionally, it may mitigate the effects of inflammation on the brain. There is inconclusive evidence as to whether reductions in BDNF found in AN are related to features associated with the illness such as changes in inflammatory markers and comorbidities, and whether they persist after recovery. This cross-sectional study measured BDNF and 36 inflammatory markers in the serum of individuals recovered from AN (rec-AN; n = 24), with acute AN (n = 56), and healthy controls (n = 51). We (a) compared BDNF concentrations between AN, rec-AN and controls including four pre-determined covariates; (b) assessed the relationship between BDNF and body mass index, eating disorder (ED) psychopathology and depression; and (c) correlated BDNF with inflammatory markers, stratified by group. The AN group showed reductions in BDNF compared to controls and rec-AN. BDNF was negatively associated with depression and ED psychopathology in the whole sample, but not the AN sample. BDNF was positively correlated with three inflammatory markers in the control group (interleukin (IL)-8, Eotaxin-3, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α) and negatively correlated with one (IL-16). The only pro-inflammatory marker associated with BDNF in the AN group was TNF-α, and no pro-inflammatory markers were associated with BDNF in the rec-AN group. These results indicate that BDNF serum concentrations may be a state marker of AN. In people with acute AN, BDNF levels seem to be linked to TNF-α signalling. However, BDNF concentrations do not appear to reflect AN symptom severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna L Keeler
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK.
| | - Olivia Patsalos
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Raymond Chung
- MRC Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Ulrike Schmidt
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Monks Orchard Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 3BX, UK
| | - Gerome Breen
- MRC Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK
| | - Janet Treasure
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Monks Orchard Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 3BX, UK
| | - Himmerich Hubertus
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK; South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, Bethlem Royal Hospital, Monks Orchard Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 3BX, UK
| | - Bethan Dalton
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, SE5 8AF, UK
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15
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The BDNF Val66Met Polymorphism Does Not Increase Susceptibility to Activity-Based Anorexia in Rats. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11050623. [PMID: 35625351 PMCID: PMC9138045 DOI: 10.3390/biology11050623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Genetic animal models are a valuable tool for understanding how human pathologies develop. The type of animal model chosen is important for uncovering effects specific to certain behaviours and neurobiological functions. A polymorphism in the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been linked with various clinical conditions in human subjects and with mouse models of anorectic behaviour. This study investigated for the first time the role of the BDNF Val66Met allelic substitution in a rat model of anorexia nervosa (AN), known as activity-based anorexia (ABA). Contrary to reports of altered BDNF signaling in patients with AN and increased anorectic behaviour in a mouse model containing the same allelic variation, it showed that 66Met did not alter susceptibility to weight loss or aspects of energy balance, including feeding and exercise in the rat model. It highlights the need to consider species–specific differences when evaluating animal models of human pathologies. Abstract Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is abundantly expressed in brain regions involved in both homeostatic and hedonic feeding, and it circulates at reduced levels in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN). A single nucleotide polymorphism in the gene encoding for BDNF (Val66Met) has been associated with worse outcomes in patients with AN, and it is shown to promote anorectic behaviour in a mouse model of caloric restriction paired with social isolation stress. Previous animal models of the Val66Met polymorphism have been in mice because of the greater ease in modification of the mouse genome, however, the most widely-accepted animal model of AN, known as activity-based anorexia (ABA), is most commonly conducted in rats. Here, we examine ABA outcomes in a novel rat model of the BDNF Val66Met allelic variation (Val68Met), and we investigate the role of this polymorphism in feeding, food choice and sucrose preference, and energy expenditure. We demonstrate that the BDNF Val68Met polymorphism does not influence susceptibility to ABA or any aspect of feeding behaviour. The discrepancy between these results and previous reports in mice may relate to species–specific differences in stress reactivity.
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Watson D, Levin-Aspenson HF, Waszczuk MA, Conway CC, Dalgleish T, Dretsch MN, Eaton NR, Forbes MK, Forbush KT, Hobbs KA, Michelini G, Nelson BD, Sellbom M, Slade T, South SC, Sunderland M, Waldman I, Witthöft M, Wright AGC, Kotov R, Krueger RF. Validity and utility of Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP): III. Emotional dysfunction superspectrum. World Psychiatry 2022; 21:26-54. [PMID: 35015357 PMCID: PMC8751579 DOI: 10.1002/wps.20943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The Hierarchical Taxonomy of Psychopathology (HiTOP) is a quantitative nosological system that addresses shortcomings of traditional mental disorder diagnoses, including arbitrary boundaries between psychopathology and normality, frequent disorder co-occurrence, substantial heterogeneity within disorders, and diagnostic unreliability over time and across clinicians. This paper reviews evidence on the validity and utility of the internalizing and somatoform spectra of HiTOP, which together provide support for an emotional dysfunction superspectrum. These spectra are composed of homogeneous symptom and maladaptive trait dimensions currently subsumed within multiple diagnostic classes, including depressive, anxiety, trauma-related, eating, bipolar, and somatic symptom disorders, as well as sexual dysfunction and aspects of personality disorders. Dimensions falling within the emotional dysfunction superspectrum are broadly linked to individual differences in negative affect/neuroticism. Extensive evidence establishes that dimensions falling within the superspectrum share genetic diatheses, environmental risk factors, cognitive and affective difficulties, neural substrates and biomarkers, childhood temperamental antecedents, and treatment response. The structure of these validators mirrors the quantitative structure of the superspectrum, with some correlates more specific to internalizing or somatoform conditions, and others common to both, thereby underlining the hierarchical structure of the domain. Compared to traditional diagnoses, the internalizing and somatoform spectra demonstrated substantially improved utility: greater reliability, larger explanatory and predictive power, and greater clinical applicability. Validated measures are currently available to implement the HiTOP system in practice, which can make diagnostic classification more useful, both in research and in the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Watson
- Department of Psychology, University of Notre Dame, South Bend, IN, USA
| | | | - Monika A Waszczuk
- Department of Psychiatry, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | | | - Tim Dalgleish
- Medical Research Council, Cognition and Brain Sciences Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
| | - Michael N Dretsch
- US Army Medical Research Directorate - West, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, USA
| | - Nicholas R Eaton
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Miriam K Forbes
- Centre for Emotional Health, Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kelsie T Forbush
- Department of Psychology, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS, USA
| | - Kelsey A Hobbs
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Giorgia Michelini
- Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Brady D Nelson
- Department of Psychology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Martin Sellbom
- Department of Psychology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Tim Slade
- Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Susan C South
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Matthew Sunderland
- Matilda Centre for Research in Mental Health and Substance Use, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Irwin Waldman
- Department of Psychology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Michael Witthöft
- Department for Clinical Psychology, Psychotherapy, and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Mainz, Mainz, Germany
| | - Aidan G C Wright
- Department of Psychology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Roman Kotov
- Department of Psychiatry, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Robert F Krueger
- Department of Psychology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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17
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Tyszkiewicz-Nwafor M, Jowik K, Paszynska E, Dutkiewicz A, Słopien A, Dmitrzak-Weglarz M. Expression of immune-related proteins and their association with neuropeptides in adolescent patients with anorexia nervosa. Neuropeptides 2022; 91:102214. [PMID: 34861598 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2021.102214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a metabo-psychiatric disorder where alterations of cytokines, neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, and the interactions between these factors can play an important role. Thus, the primary goal of the presented study was a cross-sectional analysis of immune-related proteins in patients with AN. Moreover, the correlations between these molecules and selected neuropeptides were studied. Twenty-five adolescent inpatients girls in the acute stage of a restrictive type of AN were enrolled in the study within the first year of the disease. Additionally, thirty similar in age and height controls (CG) were also assessed. The levels of 24 immune-related proteins, including cytokines, chemokines, and proteases, were measured. Moreover, selected adipocytokines, gastrointestinal hormones, and centrally produced neuropeptides levels were determined. Finally, the correlations between these molecules were analyzed. The fasting levels of CXCL1, CXCL9, FGF2, GrB, IL1, IL6, IL8, MMP8, MMP9, CTSS were statistically lower in AN than in the CG. The concentrations of many immune-related proteins remain unchanged despite their metabolic and mental condition. Moreover, significant correlations were found between leptin and CXCL1, CXCL9, GrB, IL1, IL6, and MMP8. Leptin receptors were correlated with GrB, while resistin was associated with MMP9. Our findings suggest that the initial stage of restrictive AN among adolescents within the first year of the disease is not connected with a pro-inflammatory state. Some immune-related protein changes may be associated with altered neuropeptides, primarily leptin, its receptors, and resistin. Future research should clarify which changes are primary and secondary to weight loss and whether these changes normalize with increasing weight. This would aid in understanding the complex etiopathogenesis of AN and in the search for new methods of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Tyszkiewicz-Nwafor
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 27/33 Szpitalna St., 61-572 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Jowik
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 27/33 Szpitalna St., 61-572 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Elzbieta Paszynska
- Department of Integrated Dentistry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 70 Bukowska St., 60-812 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Agata Dutkiewicz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 27/33 Szpitalna St., 61-572 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Agnieszka Słopien
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 27/33 Szpitalna St., 61-572 Poznan, Poland.
| | - Monika Dmitrzak-Weglarz
- Psychiatric Genetics Unit, Department of Psychiatry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 8 Rokietnicka St., 60-806 Poznan, Poland.
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Jada K, Djossi SK, Khedr A, Neupane B, Proskuriakova E, Mostafa JA. The Pathophysiology of Anorexia Nervosa in Hypothalamic Endocrine Function and Bone Metabolism. Cureus 2021; 13:e20548. [PMID: 35103128 PMCID: PMC8776521 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.20548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a persistent psychiatric disorder that is marked by abnormal reduced weight and amenorrhea, which may be primary or secondary. AN affects multiple endocrine axes such as gonadal, thyroid, and adrenal axis, growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor-1, adipokines such as leptin, gut peptides like ghrelin, peptide YY, and amylin. As a result of these changes bone mineral density is reduced, which increases the risk of bone fracture in patients. In this review, we focus on substantial endocrine alterations in AN with a particular emphasis on the severe bone loss associated with this condition and current bone therapies. The disorder primarily affects girls and women, who are the focus of this review. Although the majority of AN-related endocrinopathies improve over time, long-term consequences such as short stature, osteoporosis, and infertility may occur. To avoid serious consequences, nutrition therapy in these patients requires a full understanding of bone complications, and new therapeutic options for treatment should be researched.
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Anorexia Nervosa-What Has Changed in the State of Knowledge about Nutritional Rehabilitation for Patients over the Past 10 Years? A Review of Literature. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13113819. [PMID: 34836075 PMCID: PMC8619053 DOI: 10.3390/nu13113819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a psycho-metabolic disorder with a high risk of somatic complications such as refeeding syndrome (RFS) and carries the highest mortality rate of all psychiatric illnesses. To date, the consensus on the care for patients with AN has been based on recommendations for a combination of alimentation and psychotherapy. It is important to establish an initial caloric intake that will provide weight gain and minimize the risk of complications in the treatment of undernourished patients. Research over the past few years suggests that current treatment recommendations may be too stringent and should be updated. The aim of this paper is to systematize the current reports on nutritional rehabilitation in AN, to present the results of studies on the safe supplementation of patients and its potential impact on improving prognosis and the healing process. This review of literature, from 2011-2021, describes the changing trend in the nutritional protocols used and the research on their efficacy, safety, and long-term effects. In addition, it presents previous reports on the potential benefits of introducing vitamin, pro-and prebiotic and fatty acid supplementation.
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20
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Spriggs MJ, Douglass HM, Park RJ, Read T, Danby JL, de Magalhães FJC, Alderton KL, Williams TM, Blemings A, Lafrance A, Nicholls DE, Erritzoe D, Nutt DJ, Carhart-Harris RL. Study Protocol for "Psilocybin as a Treatment for Anorexia Nervosa: A Pilot Study". Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:735523. [PMID: 34744825 PMCID: PMC8563607 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.735523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a serious and life-threatening psychiatric condition. With a paucity of approved treatments, there is a desperate need for novel treatment avenues to be explored. Here, we present (1) an overview of the ways through which Public Patient Involvement (PPI) has informed a trial of psilocybin-assisted therapy for AN and (2) a protocol for a pilot study of psilocybin-assisted therapy in AN currently underway at Imperial College London. The study aims to assess the feasibility, brain mechanisms and preliminary outcomes of treating anorexia nervosa with psilocybin. Methods: (1) PPI: Across two online focus groups, eleven individuals with lived experience of AN were presented with an overview of the protocol. Their feedback not only identified solutions to possible barriers for future participants, but also helped the research team to better understand the concept of "recovery" from the perspective of those with lived experience. (2) Protocol: Twenty female participants [21-65 years old, body mass index (BMI) 15 kg/m2 or above] will receive three oral doses of psilocybin (up to 25 mg) over a 6-week period delivered in a therapeutic environment and enveloped by psychological preparation and integration. We will work with participant support networks (care teams and an identified support person) throughout and there will be an extended remote follow-up period of 12 months. Our two-fold primary outcomes are (1) psychopathology (Eating Disorder Examination) across the 6-month follow-up and (2) readiness and motivation to engage in recovery (Readiness and Motivation Questionnaire) across the 6-week trial period. Neurophysiological outcome measures will be: (1) functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) brain changes from baseline to 6-week endpoint and (2) post-acute changes in electroencephalography (EEG) activity, including an electrophysiological marker of neuronal plasticity. Discussion: The results of this pilot study will not only shed light on the acceptability, brain mechanisms, and impression of the potential efficacy of psilocybin as an adjunct treatment for AN but will be essential in shaping a subsequent Randomised Control Trial (RCT) that would test this treatment against a suitable control condition. Clinical Trial Registration: identifier: NCT04505189.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meg J. Spriggs
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah M. Douglass
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca J. Park
- OxBREaD Research Group, Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Read
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jennifer L. Danby
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Kirsty L. Alderton
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tim M. Williams
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Allan Blemings
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Adele Lafrance
- School of Rural and Northern Health, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | - Dasha E. Nicholls
- Division of Psychiatry, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David Erritzoe
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - David J. Nutt
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Robin L. Carhart-Harris
- Centre for Psychedelic Research, Department of Brain Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Borsdorf B, Dahmen B, Buehren K, Dempfle A, Egberts K, Ehrlich S, Fleischhaker C, Konrad K, Schwarte R, Timmesfeld N, Wewetzer C, Biemann R, Scharke W, Herpertz-Dahlmann B, Seitz J. BDNF levels in adolescent patients with anorexia nervosa increase continuously to supranormal levels 2.5 years after first hospitalization. J Psychiatry Neurosci 2021; 46:E568-E578. [PMID: 34654737 PMCID: PMC8526129 DOI: 10.1503/jpn.210049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) influences brain plasticity and feeding behaviour, and it has been linked to anorexia nervosa in numerous studies. Findings in mostly adult patients point to reduced serum BDNF levels in the acute stage of anorexia nervosa and rising levels with weight recovery. However, it is unclear whether this increase leads to normalization or supranormal levels, a difference that is potentially important for the etiology of anorexia nervosa and relapse. METHODS We measured serum BDNF at admission (n = 149), discharge (n = 130), 1-year follow-up (n = 116) and 2.5-year follow-up (n = 76) in adolescent female patients with anorexia nervosa hospitalized for the first time, and in healthy controls (n = 79). We analyzed associations with body mass index, eating disorder psychopathology and comorbidities. RESULTS Serum BDNF was only nominally lower at admission in patients with anorexia nervosa compared to healthy controls, but it increased continuously and reached supranormal levels at 2.5-year follow-up. BDNF was inversely associated with eating disorder psychopathology at discharge and positively associated with previous weight gain at 1-year follow-up. LIMITATIONS We compensated for attrition and batch effects using statistical measures. CONCLUSION In this largest longitudinal study to date, we found only nonsignificant reductions in BDNF in the acute stage of anorexia nervosa, possibly because of a shorter illness duration in adolescent patients. Supranormal levels of BDNF at 2.5-year follow-up could represent a pre-existing trait or a consequence of the illness. Because of the anorexigenic effect of BDNF, it might play an important predisposing role for relapse and should be explored further in studies that test causality.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jochen Seitz
- From the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital, RWTH University Aachen, Germany (Borsdorf, Dahmen, Buehren, Scharke, Herpertz-Dahlmann, Seitz); the kbo-Heckscher Klinikum, Academic Teaching Hospital, Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich, Germany (Buehren); the Institute of Medical Informatics and Statistics, Kiel University, Germany (Dempfle); the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, Wuerzburg, Germany (Egberts); the Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Division of Psychological and Social Medicine and Developmental Neurosciences, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Germany (Ehrlich); the Eating Disorders Research and Treatment Center, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU Dresden, Germany (Ehrlich); the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center Freiburg, Germany (Fleischhaker); the Child Neuropsychology Section, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital, RWTH University Aachen (Konrad); the JARA-Institute Molecular Neuroscience and Neuroimaging (INM-11), Juelich Research Centre, Germany (Konrad); the Oberberg Fachklinik Konraderhof, Cologne-Huerth, Germany (Schwarte); the Institute of Medical Biometry and Epidemiology, Philipps-University Marburg, Germany (Timmesfeld); the Department of Medical Informatics, Biometrics and Epidemiology, Ruhr University Bochum, Germany (Timmesfeld); the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Cologne City Hospitals, Germany (Wewetzer); the Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, University of Leipzig, Germany (Biemann); the Cognitive and Experimental Psychology, Institute of Psychology, RWTH Aachen University, Germany (Scharke)
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22
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Piotrkowicz M, Janoska-Jazdzik M, Koweszko T, Szulc A. The Influence of Psychotherapy on Peripheral Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Concentration Levels and Gene Methylation Status: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2021; 10:4424. [PMID: 34640441 PMCID: PMC8509187 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10194424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychotherapy is a well-established method of treating many mental disorders. It has been proven that psychotherapy leads to structural and functional changes in the brain; however, knowledge about the molecular and cellular mechanisms of these changes is limited. Neuroplasticity and one of its mediators, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), are potential research targets in this field. To define the role of BDNF concentration in serum, or in plasma, and BDNF promoter gene methylation in saliva or leucocytes, in psychotherapy, an extensive literature search was conducted in the PubMed and Web of Science databases. The literature review was conducted based on papers published up until May 2021 that included pre and post psychotherapy measurements of either BDNF concentration levels or promoter gene methylation status. Ten studies were indicated as eligible for analysis: eight studies that investigated peripheral BDNF concentration levels, one study that investigated methylation status, and one study that included an evaluation of both subject matters. Patients underwent cognitive behavioral therapy or interpersonal psychotherapy. Patients were diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, major depressive disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or post-traumatic stress disorder. There were only three of the nine studies that showed statistically significant increases in BDNF concentration levels after psychotherapy. The two studies that involved BDNF gene methylation status showed a decrease in methylation after dialectical behavioral therapy of borderline patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Piotrkowicz
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical University of Warsaw, Partyzantow 2/4, 05-802 Pruszkow, Poland; (M.J.-J.); (T.K.); (A.S.)
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23
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A systematic review and meta-analysis of association between brain-derived neurotrophic factor and type 2 diabetes and glycemic profile. Sci Rep 2021; 11:13773. [PMID: 34215825 PMCID: PMC8253793 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93271-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Several epidemiologic studies have evaluated the relation between serum/plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels and glycemic parameters, but the findings were conflicting. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare circulating BDNF levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) or other glycemic disorders with healthy controls and to evaluate correlation between BDNF concentrations with glycemic profile. A systematic search up to July 2020 was conducted in reliable electronic databases (MEDLINE (Pubmed), EMBASE, Scopus) and Google scholar. Sixteen observational studies compared serum/plasma BDNF levels in diabetic patients (or individuals with glycemic disorders) vs. healthy controls or reported correlations between serum BDNF levels and glycemic parameters in adults were included in the review. Overall weighted mean difference (WMD) of circulating BDNF levels in 1306 patients with T2D (or other glycemic disorders) was 1.12 ng/mL lower than 1250 healthy subjects (WMD: − 1.12; 95%CI − 1.37, − 0.88, I2 = 98.7%, P < 0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that both diabetic patients and subjects with other glycemic disorders had lower serum/plasma BDNF levels than healthy controls (WMD: − 1.74; 95%CI − 2.15, − 1.33 and WMD: − 0.49; 95%CI − 0.82, − 0.16, respectively). No significant correlation was found between BDNF levels and glycemic parameters [fasting blood glucose (FBG) (Fisher’s Z = 0.05; 95%CI − 0.21, 0.11; n = 1400), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (Fisher’s Z = 0.12; 95%CI − 0.20, 0.44; n = 732) and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (Fisher’s Z = 0.04; 95%CI − 0.05, 0.12; n = 2222)]. We found that diabetic patients and subjects with glycemic disorders had lower circulating BDNF levels than healthy controls. However, there was no significant correlation between BDNF concentrations and glycemic parameters including FBG, HOMA-IR and HbA1c. Further prospective investigations are required to confirm these findings.
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24
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Alaaraj N, Soliman A, Hamed N, Alyafei F, De Sanctis V. Understanding the complex role of mTORC as an intracellular critical mediator of whole-body metabolism in anorexia nervosa: A mini review. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2021; 92:e2021170. [PMID: 33682848 PMCID: PMC7975969 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v92i1.11342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a kind of malnutrition resulting from chronic self-induced starvation. The reported associated endocrine changes (adaptive and non-adaptive) include hypothalamic amenorrhea, a nutritionally acquired growth hormone resistance with low insulin like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) secretion, relative hypercortisolemia, decreased leptin and insulin concentrations, and increased ghrelin, Peptide YY (PYY) and adiponectin secretion. The combined effect of malnutrition and endocrinopathy may have deleterious effects on multi-organs including bone, gonads, thyroid gland, and brain (neurocognition, anxiety, depression, and other psychopathologies). The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a kinase that in humans is encoded by the mTOR gene. Recent studies suggest an important role of mTOR complex in integration of nutrient and hormone signals to adjust energy homeostasis. In this review, we tried to elucidate the role/s of mTOR as critical mediator of the cellular response in anorexia nervosa. (www.actabiomedica.it)
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Affiliation(s)
- Nada Alaaraj
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Ashraf Soliman
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Noor Hamed
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Fawziya Alyafei
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology, Hamad General Hospital, Doha, Qatar.
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25
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Kogel V, Trinh S, Gasterich N, Beyer C, Seitz J. Long-Term Glucose Starvation Induces Inflammatory Responses and Phenotype Switch in Primary Cortical Rat Astrocytes. J Mol Neurosci 2021; 71:2368-2382. [PMID: 33580474 PMCID: PMC8585803 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-021-01800-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Astrocytes are the most abundant cell type in the brain and crucial to ensure the metabolic supply of neurons and their synapse formation. Overnutrition as present in patients suffering from obesity causes astrogliosis in the hypothalamus. Other diseases accompanied by malnutrition appear to have an impact on the brain and astrocyte function. In the eating disorder anorexia nervosa (AN), patients suffer from undernutrition and develop volume reductions of the cerebral cortex, associated with reduced astrocyte proliferation and cell count. Although an effect on astrocytes and their function has already been shown for overnutrition, their role in long-term undernutrition remains unclear. The present study used primary rat cerebral cortex astrocytes to investigate their response to chronic glucose starvation. Cells were grown with a medium containing a reduced glucose concentration (2 mM) for 15 days. Long-term glucose starvation increased the expression of a subset of pro-inflammatory genes and shifted the primary astrocyte population to the pro-inflammatory A1-like phenotype. Moreover, genes encoding for proteins involved in the unfolded protein response were elevated. Our findings demonstrate that astrocytes under chronic glucose starvation respond with an inflammatory reaction. With respect to the multiple functions of astrocytes, an association between elevated inflammatory responses due to chronic starvation and alterations found in the brain of patients suffering from undernutrition seems possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Kogel
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074, Aachen, Germany.
| | - Stefanie Trinh
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Natalie Gasterich
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Cordian Beyer
- Institute of Neuroanatomy, RWTH Aachen University, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jochen Seitz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University Hospital, RWTH Aachen University, 52074, Aachen, Germany
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26
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Is Serum BDNF Altered in Acute, Short- and Long-Term Recovered Restrictive Type Anorexia Nervosa? Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13020432. [PMID: 33572701 PMCID: PMC7910942 DOI: 10.3390/nu13020432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neurotrophin involved in the regulation of food intake and body weight, has been implicated in the development and maintenance of Anorexia nervosa (AN). The majority of previous studies reported lower BDNF levels in acutely underweight AN patients (acAN) and increasing levels after weight rehabilitation. Here, we investigated serum BDNF concentrations in the largest known AN sample to date, both before and after weight restoration therapy. Serum BDNF was measured in 259 female volunteers: 77 in-patient acAN participants of the restrictive type (47 reassessed after short-term weight rehabilitation), 62 individuals long-term recovered from AN, and 120 healthy controls. We validated our findings in a post-hoc mega-analysis in which we reanalyzed combined data from the current sample and those from our previous study on BDNF in AN (combined sample: 389 participants). All analyses carefully accounted for known determinants of BDNF (age, sex, storage time of blood samples). We further assessed relationships with relevant clinical variables (body-mass-index, physical activity, symptoms). Contrary to our hypotheses, we found zero significant differences in either cross-sectional or longitudinal comparisons and no significant relationships with clinical variables. Together, our study suggests that BDNF may not be a reliable state- or trait-marker in AN after all.
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27
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Bumb JM, Bach P, Grosshans M, Wagner X, Koopmann A, Vollstädt-Klein S, Schuster R, Wiedemann K, Kiefer F. BDNF influences neural cue-reactivity to food stimuli and food craving in obesity. Eur Arch Psychiatry Clin Neurosci 2021; 271:963-974. [PMID: 33367955 PMCID: PMC8236045 DOI: 10.1007/s00406-020-01224-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 12/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
There is increasing evidence that brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) impacts on the development of obesity. We are the first to test the hypothesis that BDNF levels might be associated with neural reactivity to food cues in patients suffering from obesity and healthy controls. We assessed visual food cue-induced neural response in 19 obese patients and 20 matched controls using functional magnetic resonance imaging and analyzed the associations between BDNF levels, food cue-reactivity and food craving. Whole-brain analysis in both groups revealed that food cues elicited higher neural activation in clusters of mesolimbic brain areas including the insula (food > neutral). Patients suffering from obesity showed a significant positive correlation between plasma BDNF levels and visual food cue-reactivity in the bilateral insulae. In addition, patients suffering from obesity with positive food cue-induced insula activation also reported significantly higher food craving than those with low cue-reactivity-an effect that was absent in normal weight participants. The present findings implicate that BDNF levels in patients suffering from obesity might be involved in food craving and obesity in humans. This highlights the importance to consider BDNF pathways when investigating obesity and obesity treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Malte Bumb
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, Heidelberg University, J5, Mannheim, Germany. .,Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Patrick Bach
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, Heidelberg University, J5, Mannheim, Germany ,Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martin Grosshans
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, Heidelberg University, J5, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Xenija Wagner
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, Heidelberg University, J5, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Anne Koopmann
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, Heidelberg University, J5, Mannheim, Germany ,Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sabine Vollstädt-Klein
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, Heidelberg University, J5, Mannheim, Germany ,Mannheim Center for Translational Neurosciences (MCTN), Medical Faculty of Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
| | - Rilana Schuster
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, Heidelberg University, J5, Mannheim, Germany ,Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Klaus Wiedemann
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Medical Center, Martinistr, 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Falk Kiefer
- Department of Addictive Behavior and Addiction Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Central Institute of Mental Health, Heidelberg University, J5, Mannheim, Germany ,Feuerlein Center on Translational Addiction Medicine (FCTS), University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany ,Mannheim Center for Translational Neurosciences (MCTN), Medical Faculty of Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany
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28
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Chan G, Rosic T, Pasyk S, Dehghan M, Samaan Z. Exploring the Impact of Modifiable Factors on Serum BDNF in Psychiatric Patients and Community Controls. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2021; 17:545-554. [PMID: 33628025 PMCID: PMC7898784 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s295026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been a focus of psychiatric research for the past two decades. BDNF has been shown to impact neural function and development. Studies have investigated serum BDNF as a biomarker for psychiatric disorders such as depression and schizophrenia. In some studies, investigators attempt to control for variables such as smoking status, exercise, or diet. However, the relationship between these factors and BDNF is not clearly established. Furthermore, some studies have questioned whether a difference in the impact of BDNF exists between psychiatric and healthy populations. PURPOSE We aim to examine the association between serum BDNF levels and modifiable risk factors such as body mass index (BMI), smoking, exercise levels, and diet. Subsequently, we aim to examine whether the relationship between these risk factors and serum BDNF is different between psychiatric and control populations. PATIENTS AND METHODS We use cross-sectional data from an age- and sex-matched case-control study of participants with psychiatric inpatients and community controls without psychiatric diagnoses. Participants completed comprehensive assessments at study enrolment including sociodemographic information, smoking status, exercise, diet, and BMI. Serum BDNF levels were collected from participants. Linear regression analysis was performed to determine the association between modifiable factors and serum BDNF level. RESULTS A significant association was found between sedentary activity level and lower serum BDNF levels (Beta coefficient = -2.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] -4.70, -0.28, p = 0.028). Subgroup analysis demonstrated that this association held for psychiatric inpatients but not for community controls; it also held in females (Beta coefficient = -3.18, 95% CI -6.29, -0.07, p = 0.045) but not in males (Beta coefficient = -1.42, 95% CI -4.61, 1.78, p = 0.383). Antidepressant use had a significantly different association between male (Beta coefficient = 3.20, 95% CI 0.51, 5.88, p = 0.020) and female subgroups (Beta coefficient = -3.10, 95% CI -5.75, -0.46, p = 0.022). No significant association was found between other factors and serum BDNF. CONCLUSION Sedentary activity level may lead to lower serum BDNF levels in individuals with psychiatric diagnoses. Our findings support the notion that physical activity can provide a positive impact as part of treatment for psychiatric illness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galen Chan
- Michael G. DeGroote School of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tea Rosic
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Stanislav Pasyk
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mahshid Dehghan
- Population Health Research Institute, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zainab Samaan
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
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29
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Tolle V, Ramoz N, Epelbaum J. Is there a hypothalamic basis for anorexia nervosa? HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2021; 181:405-424. [PMID: 34238474 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-820683-6.00030-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The hypothalamus has long been known to control food intake and energy metabolism through a complex network of primary and secondary neurons and glial cells. Anorexia nervosa being a complex disorder characterized by abnormal feeding behavior and food aversion, it is thus quite surprising that not much is known concerning potential hypothalamic modifications in this disorder. In this chapter, we review the recent advances in the fields of genetics, epigenetics, structural and functional imaging, and brain connectivity, as well as neuroendocrine findings and emerging animal models, which have begun to unravel the importance of hypothalamic adaptive processes to our understanding of the pathology of eating disorders.
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Anorexia nervosa, zinc deficiency and the glutamate system: The ketamine option. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2020; 101:109921. [PMID: 32169564 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2020.109921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe, biological brain disorder with significant medical risks and a tenacious development over time. Unfortunately, few treatments show efficacy in people with AN although numerous therapies including pharmacological have been explored. Zinc deficiency has been implicated in AN and zinc is important in a large range of processes in the brain. In particular, it is an allosteric modulator of NMDA receptors - the maintenance of zinc levels within a normal, narrow range is essential for glutamatergic functioning. Chronic zinc deficiency increases neuronal stores of calcium and reduces direct modulation of NMDA receptors which collectively lead to overactivation and upregulation of NMDA receptors. This may facilitate pathologically high levels of glutamate, calcium influx and subsequent excitotoxicity, which can disrupt synaptogenesis and synaptic plasticity. While studies of zinc supplementation in AN have shown some promise, the efficacy of this treatment is limited. This may be due to AN illness chronicity and the significant changes already made, as well as a reduced potency of zinc to inhibit NMDA receptors in a pathological state. Thus, we propose that the safe (at low doses) yet more potent NMDA receptor antagonist, ketamine, may act to normalise a perturbed glutamatergic system and increase synaptogenesis in the short term. This 'kickstart' via ketamine could then allow zinc supplementation and other forms of treatment to enhance recovery in AN.
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Mancuso C, Izquierdo A, Slattery M, Becker KR, Plessow F, Thomas JJ, Eddy KT, Lawson EA, Misra M. Changes in appetite-regulating hormones following food intake are associated with changes in reported appetite and a measure of hedonic eating in girls and young women with anorexia nervosa. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2020; 113:104556. [PMID: 31918391 PMCID: PMC7080573 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.104556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Females with anorexia nervosa (AN) have higher ghrelin and peptide YY (PYY) and lower brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) levels than controls, and differ in their perception of hunger cues. Studies have not examined appetite-regulating hormones in the context of homeostatic and hedonic appetite in AN. OBJECTIVE To examine whether alterations in appetite-regulating hormones following a standardized meal are associated with homeostatic and hedonic appetite in young females with AN vs. controls. METHODS 68 females (36 AN, 32 controls) 10-22 years old were enrolled. Ghrelin, PYY and BDNF levels were assessed before, and 30, 60 and 120 min following a 400-kilocalorie standardized breakfast. Visual Analog Scales (VAS) assessing prospective food consumption, hunger, satiety, and hedonic appetite were administered before and 20 min after breakfast. A Cookie Taste Test (CTT) was conducted after a snack as a measure of hedonic eating behavior ∼3 h after breakfast. RESULTS AN had higher fasting ghrelin and PYY, and lower fasting BDNF (p = 0.001, 0.002 and 0.044 respectively) than controls. Following breakfast (over 120 min), ghrelin and PYY area under the curve (AUC) were higher, while BDNF AUC was lower in AN vs. controls (p = 0.007, 0.017 and 0.020 respectively). Among AN (but not controls), reductions in ghrelin and increases in PYY in the first 30-minutes following breakfast were associated with reductions in VAS scores for prospective food consumption. AN consumed fewer calories during the CTT vs. controls (p < 0.0001). In AN (particularly AN-restrictive subtype), BDNF AUC was positively associated with kilocalories consumed during the CTT CONCLUSIONS: In young females with AN, changes in ghrelin and PYY following food intake are associated with reductions in a prospective measure of food consumption, while reductions in BDNF are associated with reduced hedonic food intake. Further studies are necessary to better understand the complex interplay between appetite signals and eating behaviors in AN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Mancuso
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States
| | - Alyssa Izquierdo
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States
| | - Meghan Slattery
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States
| | - Kendra R Becker
- Eating Disorders Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States
| | - Franziska Plessow
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States
| | - Jennifer J Thomas
- Eating Disorders Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States
| | - Kamryn T Eddy
- Eating Disorders Clinical and Research Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States
| | - Elizabeth A Lawson
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States
| | - Madhusmita Misra
- Neuroendocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, United States; Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Massachusetts General Hospital for Children and Harvard Medical School, United States.
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32
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Zamani M, Hosseini SV, Behrouj H, Erfani M, Dastghaib S, Ahmadi M, Shamsdin SA, Mokarram P. BDNF Val66Met genetic variation and its plasma level in patients with morbid obesity: A case-control study. Gene 2019; 705:51-54. [PMID: 31004714 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2019.04.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 03/23/2019] [Accepted: 04/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Obesity is a major public health concern worldwide. Genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors contribute to the multifactorial etiology of obesity. Evidence suggests an association between human Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) Val66Met single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) and obesity. Reduced plasma BDNF levels have also been reported in patients with eating disorders and obesity. We aimed to evaluate the BDNF Val66Met (rs6265) SNP and also plasma BDNF levels in morbidly obese patients compared with healthy normal controls in southern Iran. One hundred morbidly obese patients and one hundred eight healthy normal controls were enrolled. Blood-derived DNA samples were genotyped using the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method and confirmed by DNA sequencing. Plasma BDNF levels were evaluated using a commercially available sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit for human BDNF. Data analysis was performed by SPSS software, version 18.0. Genotype distribution was not significantly different between obese patients and controls. However, plasma BDNF levels were significantly lower in obese patients compared with controls. Interestingly, a significant association was found between BDNF Val66Met SNP and plasma BDNF levels. No relationship was observed between BDNF Val66Met SNP and all assessed demographic and clinical characteristics of obese patients. It seems that plasma BDNF levels were associated with both obesity and BDNF Val66Met SNP. However, this association was not found between BDNF Val66Met SNP and obesity. Further studies with larger sample sizes are needed for more detailed assessment of this genetic variation as a potential biomarker for obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mozhdeh Zamani
- Colorectal Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Hamid Behrouj
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mehran Erfani
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sanaz Dastghaib
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Ahmadi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyedeh Azra Shamsdin
- Gastroenterohepatology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Pooneh Mokarram
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Schalla MA, Stengel A. Activity Based Anorexia as an Animal Model for Anorexia Nervosa-A Systematic Review. Front Nutr 2019; 6:69. [PMID: 31165073 PMCID: PMC6536653 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2019.00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe eating disorder affecting around 1 per 100 persons. However, the knowledge about its underlying pathophysiology is limited. To address the need for a better understanding of AN, an animal model was established early on in the late 1960's: the activity-based anorexia (ABA) model in which rats have access to a running wheel combined with restricted food access leading to self-starving/body weight loss and hyperactivity. Both symptoms, separately or combined, can also be found in patients with AN. The aim of this systematic review was to compile the current knowledge about this animal model as well as to address gaps in knowledge. Using the data bases of PubMed, Embase and Web of science 102 publications were identified meeting the search criteria. Here, we show that the ABA model mimics core features of human AN and has been characterized with regards to brain alterations, hormonal changes as well as adaptations of the immune system. Moreover, pharmacological interventions in ABA animals and new developments, such as a chronic adaptation of the ABA model, will be highlighted. The chronic model might be well suited to display AN characteristics but should be further characterized. Lastly, limitations of the model will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha A Schalla
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Andreas Stengel
- Department for Psychosomatic Medicine, Charité Center for Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin Institute of Health, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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Støving RK. MECHANISMS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY: Anorexia nervosa and endocrinology: a clinical update. Eur J Endocrinol 2019; 180:R9-R27. [PMID: 30400050 PMCID: PMC6347284 DOI: 10.1530/eje-18-0596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa is a syndrome, that is collections of symptoms, which is not defined by its etiology. The severe cases are intractable. The syndrome is associated with multiple, profound endocrine alterations which may be adaptive, reactive or etiologic. Adaptive changes potentially may be inappropriate in clinical settings such as inpatient intensive re-nutrition or in a setting with somatic comorbidity. Electrolyte levels must be closely monitored during the refeeding process, and the need for weight gain must be balanced against potentially fatal refeeding complications. An important focus of clinical research should be to identify biomarkers associated with different stages of weight loss and re-nutrition combined with psychometric data. Besides well-established peripheral endocrine actions, several hormones also are released directly to different brain areas, where they may exert behavioral and psychogenic actions that could offer therapeutic targets. We need reliable biomarkers for predicting outcome and to ensure safe re-nutrition, however, first of all we need them to explore the metabolism in anorexia nervosa to open new avenues with therapeutic targets. A breakthrough in our understanding and treatment of this whimsical disease remains. Considering this, the aim of the present review is to provide an updated overview of the many endocrine changes in a clinical perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- René Klinkby Støving
- Nutrition Clinic, Center for Eating Disorders, Odense University Hospital
- Endocrine Elite Research Centre, Institute of Clinical Research, University of South Denmark, Faculty of Health Sciences
- Psychiatric Services in the Region of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
- Correspondence should be addressed to R K Støving;
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Tyszkiewicz-Nwafor M, Rybakowski F, Dmitrzak-Weglarz M, Skibinska M, Paszynska E, Dutkiewicz A, Słopien A. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Oxytocin Signaling in Association With Clinical Symptoms in Adolescent Inpatients With Anorexia Nervosa-A Longitudinal Study. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:1032. [PMID: 32184739 PMCID: PMC7058805 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.01032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), as well as oxytocin (OXY), are centrally secreted neuropeptides regulating a range of physiological processes, including food intake and metabolism. Moreover, numerous reports suggest their role in affective and cognitive symptoms of various psychiatric disorders. Thus, the study aimed to measure the serum level of BDNF and its receptor-tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) and OXY in the malnourished anorexia nervosa patients and following partial weight-recovery. The correlations between levels of these proteins with the primary symptoms of the anorexia nervosa (AN) were also analyzed. METHODOLOGY Eighty-four adolescent AN patients were recruited into the study, but only forty-two AN patients completed it. The control group comprises of thirty age- and height-matched girls (CG). Serum BDNF, TrkB, and OXY levels were measured in AN group in two time-points-at the beginning of the hospitalization in malnourished patients (AN-T1) and again after partial weight normalization, on the day of discharge (AN-T2). The severity of eating disorders, as well as depressive and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, were assessed at the same two-time points. RESULTS Body mass index (BMI) differed significantly between the AN-T1, AN-T2, and CG. BDNF levels for the AN-T2 increased significantly in comparison to the AN-T1, but at two-time points were significantly lower than in the CG. The OXY level did not change with weight gain and in both groups AN-T1 and AN-T2 were statistically significantly higher than in the CG. Statistically significant negative correlations between BDNF and the severity of eating disorders symptoms were found. Depressive and obsessive-compulsive symptoms did not show significant correlations with levels of studied proteins for either malnourished or partially weight recovered AN patients. CONCLUSIONS BDNF serum levels were decreased in the malnourished AN patients and tended to normalize with partial weight recovery. OXY serum levels were found to be increased in the malnourished AN patients and did not normalize with partial weight recovery, confirming previous reports about its role in the etiopathogenesis of AN. BDNF can be related to aberrant eating behaviors occurring in AN. Our results do not support the role of serum levels of BDNF, TrkB, or OXY in the modulation of depressive or obsessive-compulsive symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Tyszkiewicz-Nwafor
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Filip Rybakowski
- Department Psychiatry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | | | - Maria Skibinska
- Department of Psychiatric Genetics, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Elżbieta Paszynska
- Department of Integrated Dentistry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Agata Dutkiewicz
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Słopien
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznan, Poland
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Inflammatory Markers in Anorexia Nervosa: An Exploratory Study. Nutrients 2018; 10:nu10111573. [PMID: 30355978 PMCID: PMC6266841 DOI: 10.3390/nu10111573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 10/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation has been suggested to play a pathophysiological role in anorexia nervosa (AN). In this exploratory cross-sectional study, we measured serum concentrations of 40 inflammatory markers (including cytokines, chemokines, and adhesion molecules) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in people with AN (n = 27) and healthy controls (HCs) (n = 13). Many of these inflammatory markers had not been previously quantified in people with AN. Eating disorder (ED) and general psychopathology symptoms were assessed. Body mass index (BMI) and body composition data were obtained. Interleukin (IL)-6, IL-15, and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1 concentrations were significantly elevated and concentrations of BDNF, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-β, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-A were significantly lower in AN participants compared to HCs. Age, BMI, and percentage body fat mass were identified as potential confounding variables for several of these inflammatory markers. Of particular interest is that most of the quantified markers were unchanged in people with AN, despite them being severely underweight with evident body fat loss, and having clinically significant ED symptoms and severe depression and anxiety symptoms. Future research should examine the replicability of our findings and consider the effect of additional potential confounding variables, such as smoking and physical activity, on the relationship between AN and inflammation.
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Placental miR-340 mediates vulnerability to activity based anorexia in mice. Nat Commun 2018; 9:1596. [PMID: 29686286 PMCID: PMC5913294 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-018-03836-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a devastating eating disorder characterized by self-starvation that mainly affects women. Its etiology is unknown, which impedes successful treatment options leading to a limited chance of full recovery. Here, we show that gestation is a vulnerable window that can influence the predisposition to AN. By screening placental microRNA expression of naive and prenatally stressed (PNS) fetuses and assessing vulnerability to activity-based anorexia (ABA), we identify miR-340 as a sexually dimorphic regulator involved in prenatal programming of ABA. PNS caused gene-body hypermethylation of placental miR-340, which is associated with reduced miR-340 expression and increased protein levels of several target transcripts, GR, Cry2 and H3F3b. MiR-340 is linked to the expression of several nutrient transporters both in mice and human placentas. Using placenta-specific lentiviral transgenes and embryo transfer, we demonstrate the key role miR-340 plays in the mechanism involved in early life programming of ABA. Anorexia nervosa is characterised by self-starvation but its etiology is not completely understood. Here the authors describe how prenatal stress can induce activity-based anorexia in the offspring during early adulthood by upregulating miR-340 expression in the placenta that affects expression of nutrient transporters.
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Structural Neuroimaging of Anorexia Nervosa: Future Directions in the Quest for Mechanisms Underlying Dynamic Alterations. Biol Psychiatry 2018; 83:224-234. [PMID: 28967386 PMCID: PMC6053269 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopsych.2017.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Revised: 07/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a serious eating disorder characterized by self-starvation and extreme weight loss. Pseudoatrophic brain changes are often readily visible in individual brain scans, and AN may be a valuable model disorder to study structural neuroplasticity. Structural magnetic resonance imaging studies have found reduced gray matter volume and cortical thinning in acutely underweight patients to normalize following successful treatment. However, some well-controlled studies have found regionally greater gray matter and persistence of structural alterations following long-term recovery. Findings from diffusion tensor imaging studies of white matter integrity and connectivity are also inconsistent. Furthermore, despite the severity of AN, the number of existing structural neuroimaging studies is still relatively low, and our knowledge of the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms for macrostructural brain changes is rudimentary. We critically review the current state of structural neuroimaging in AN and discuss the potential neurobiological basis of structural brain alterations in the disorder, highlighting impediments to progress, recent developments, and promising future directions. In particular, we argue for the utility of more standardized data collection, adopting a connectomics approach to understanding brain network architecture, employing advanced magnetic resonance imaging methods that quantify biomarkers of brain tissue microstructure, integrating data from multiple imaging modalities, strategic longitudinal observation during weight restoration, and large-scale data pooling. Our overarching objective is to motivate carefully controlled research of brain structure in eating disorders, which will ultimately help predict therapeutic response and improve treatment.
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Pałasz A, Janas-Kozik M, Borrow A, Arias-Carrión O, Worthington JJ. The potential role of the novel hypothalamic neuropeptides nesfatin-1, phoenixin, spexin and kisspeptin in the pathogenesis of anxiety and anorexia nervosa. Neurochem Int 2018; 113:120-136. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2017.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Revised: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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40
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Jáuregui-Lobera I, Martínez-Quiñones JV. Neuromodulation in eating disorders and obesity: a promising way of treatment? Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2018; 14:2817-2835. [PMID: 30464467 PMCID: PMC6208872 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s180231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuromodulation can affect the functioning of the central nervous system (CNS), and emotional/eating behavior is an exciting facet of that functioning. Therefore, it would be possible to offer an alternative (or complement) treatment to psychotropic medications and different psychological and nutritional approaches to both eating disorders (EDs) and obesity. Although there are a number of publications in these areas, a systematic review has not been conducted to date. Abstracts, letters, conference reports, dissertations, and reviews were excluded. Clinical trials and controlled human clinical trials were filtered and included in this study. Articles included were based on the population suffering from anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge ED, overweight, and obesity. No restrictions were placed on the sample size. Only trials investigating the effect of neuromodulation by means of deep brain stimulation (DBS), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) were included. The following databases were used to conduct the search: MEDLINE/ PubMed, PsycINFO, PsycArticles, and Cochrane (Search Trials, CENTRAL). Study selection was performed following the PRISMA process (PRISMA 2009 Checklist). The total number of participants in all the trials was 562 (DBS, 25; tDCS, 138; TMS, 399; range, 3-90; median, 23.5). As a result, 50% of the studies had samples of between 14 and 38 participants. Neuro-modulation in ED seems to have certain clinical potential, and therefore, this is a promising area for further research. Developments in ED neuromodulation will be linked to neuroimaging to identify potential stimulation targets and possible biomarkers of treatment response. To date, TMS and/or direct current stimulation (DCS) is not the first-line treatment yet, but it could become a preferred option of treatment in the future. Further studies should avoid small sample sizes and the use of different methodologies. Currently, neuromodulation techniques are in the experimental phase, and they are not an evidence-based treatment for ED.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ignacio Jáuregui-Lobera
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemical Engineering, University of Pablo de Olavide of Seville, Seville, Spain,
| | - José V Martínez-Quiñones
- Department of Neurosurgery, Mutua de Accidentes de Zaragoza (Servicio de Neurocirugía), Zaragoza, Spain
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Jiang J, Wang J, Li C. Potential Mechanisms Underlying the Therapeutic Effects of Electroconvulsive Therapy. Neurosci Bull 2017; 33:339-347. [PMID: 28032314 PMCID: PMC5567510 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-016-0094-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In spite of the extensive application of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), how it works remains unclear. So far, researchers have made great efforts in figuring out the mechanisms underlying the effect of ECT treatment via determining the levels of neurotransmitters and cytokines and using genetic and epigenetic tools, as well as structural and functional neuroimaging. To help address this question and provide implications for future research, relevant clinical trials and animal experiments are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangling Jiang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Jijun Wang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Brain Science and Technology Research Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Chunbo Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Psychotic Disorders, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Bio-X Institutes, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Brain Science and Technology Research Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
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Mishra A, Anand M, Umesh S. Neurobiology of eating disorders - an overview. Asian J Psychiatr 2017; 25:91-100. [PMID: 28262179 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajp.2016.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Revised: 09/03/2016] [Accepted: 10/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anand Mishra
- Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India.
| | - Manu Anand
- Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
| | - Shreekantiah Umesh
- K.S. Mani Centre for Cognitive Neurosciences, Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi, Jharkhand, India
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Hinney A, Kesselmeier M, Jall S, Volckmar AL, Föcker M, Antel J, Heid IM, Winkler TW, Grant SFA, Guo Y, Bergen AW, Kaye W, Berrettini W, Hakonarson H, Herpertz-Dahlmann B, de Zwaan M, Herzog W, Ehrlich S, Zipfel S, Egberts KM, Adan R, Brandys M, van Elburg A, Boraska Perica V, Franklin CS, Tschöp MH, Zeggini E, Bulik CM, Collier D, Scherag A, Müller TD, Hebebrand J. Evidence for three genetic loci involved in both anorexia nervosa risk and variation of body mass index. Mol Psychiatry 2017; 22:192-201. [PMID: 27184124 PMCID: PMC5114162 DOI: 10.1038/mp.2016.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Revised: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The maintenance of normal body weight is disrupted in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) for prolonged periods of time. Prior to the onset of AN, premorbid body mass index (BMI) spans the entire range from underweight to obese. After recovery, patients have reduced rates of overweight and obesity. As such, loci involved in body weight regulation may also be relevant for AN and vice versa. Our primary analysis comprised a cross-trait analysis of the 1000 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with the lowest P-values in a genome-wide association meta-analysis (GWAMA) of AN (GCAN) for evidence of association in the largest published GWAMA for BMI (GIANT). Subsequently we performed sex-stratified analyses for these 1000 SNPs. Functional ex vivo studies on four genes ensued. Lastly, a look-up of GWAMA-derived BMI-related loci was performed in the AN GWAMA. We detected significant associations (P-values <5 × 10-5, Bonferroni-corrected P<0.05) for nine SNP alleles at three independent loci. Interestingly, all AN susceptibility alleles were consistently associated with increased BMI. None of the genes (chr. 10: CTBP2, chr. 19: CCNE1, chr. 2: CARF and NBEAL1; the latter is a region with high linkage disequilibrium) nearest to these SNPs has previously been associated with AN or obesity. Sex-stratified analyses revealed that the strongest BMI signal originated predominantly from females (chr. 10 rs1561589; Poverall: 2.47 × 10-06/Pfemales: 3.45 × 10-07/Pmales: 0.043). Functional ex vivo studies in mice revealed reduced hypothalamic expression of Ctbp2 and Nbeal1 after fasting. Hypothalamic expression of Ctbp2 was increased in diet-induced obese (DIO) mice as compared with age-matched lean controls. We observed no evidence for associations for the look-up of BMI-related loci in the AN GWAMA. A cross-trait analysis of AN and BMI loci revealed variants at three chromosomal loci with potential joint impact. The chromosome 10 locus is particularly promising given that the association with obesity was primarily driven by females. In addition, the detected altered hypothalamic expression patterns of Ctbp2 and Nbeal1 as a result of fasting and DIO implicate these genes in weight regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Hinney
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - M Kesselmeier
- Clinical Epidemiology, Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - S Jall
- Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Helmholtz Diabetes Center & German Diabetes Center (DZD), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
- Division of Metabolic Diseases, Department of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - A-L Volckmar
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - M Föcker
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - J Antel
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - I M Heid
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - T W Winkler
- Department of Genetic Epidemiology, University of Regensburg, Regensburg, Germany
| | - S F A Grant
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Divisions of Genetics and Endocrinology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- The Center for Applied Genomics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Y Guo
- The Center for Applied Genomics, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - W Kaye
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - W Berrettini
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - H Hakonarson
- The Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pediatrics, The Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - B Herpertz-Dahlmann
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital of the RWTH Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - M de Zwaan
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - W Herzog
- Department of Internal Medicine II, General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - S Ehrlich
- Translational Developmental Neuroscience Section, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, TU-Dresden, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Dresden University of Technology, Dresden, Germany
| | - S Zipfel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical University Hospital, Tübingen, Germany
| | - K M Egberts
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - R Adan
- Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, Department of Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Altrecht Eating Disorders Rintveld, Zeist, The Netherlands
| | - M Brandys
- Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, Department of Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Altrecht Eating Disorders Rintveld, Zeist, The Netherlands
| | - A van Elburg
- Brain Center Rudolf Magnus, Department of Translational Neuroscience, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - V Boraska Perica
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
- University of Split School of Medicine, Split, Croatia
| | - C S Franklin
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - M H Tschöp
- Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Helmholtz Diabetes Center & German Diabetes Center (DZD), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
- Division of Metabolic Diseases, Department of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - E Zeggini
- Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute, Wellcome Trust Genome Campus, Hinxton, Cambridge, UK
| | - C M Bulik
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Nutrition, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - D Collier
- Social, Genetic and Developmental Psychiatry Centre, Institute of Psychiatry, King's College London, London, UK
- Eli Lilly and Company Ltd, Surrey, UK
| | - A Scherag
- Clinical Epidemiology, Integrated Research and Treatment Center, Center for Sepsis Control and Care (CSCC), Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - T D Müller
- Institute for Diabetes and Obesity, Helmholtz Diabetes Center & German Diabetes Center (DZD), Helmholtz Zentrum München, Neuherberg, Germany
- Division of Metabolic Diseases, Department of Medicine, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - J Hebebrand
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Psychosomatics, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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Ho EV, Klenotich SJ, McMurray MS, Dulawa SC. Activity-Based Anorexia Alters the Expression of BDNF Transcripts in the Mesocorticolimbic Reward Circuit. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0166756. [PMID: 27861553 PMCID: PMC5115804 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0166756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2016] [Accepted: 11/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a complex eating disorder with severe dysregulation of appetitive behavior. The activity-based anorexia (ABA) paradigm is an animal model in which rodents exposed to both running wheels and scheduled feeding develop aspects of AN including paradoxical hypophagia, dramatic weight loss, and hyperactivity, while animals exposed to only one condition maintain normal body weight. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), an activity-dependent modulator of neuronal plasticity, is reduced in the serum of AN patients, and is a known regulator of feeding and weight maintenance. We assessed the effects of scheduled feeding, running wheel access, or both on the expression of BDNF transcripts within the mesocorticolimbic pathway. We also assessed the expression of neuronal cell adhesion molecule 1 (NCAM1) to explore the specificity of effects on BDNF within the mesocorticolimbic pathway. Scheduled feeding increased the levels of both transcripts in the hippocampus (HPC), increased NCAM1 mRNA expression in the ventral tegmental area (VTA), and decreased BDNF mRNA levels in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). In addition, wheel running increased BDNF mRNA expression in the VTA. No changes in either transcript were observed in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Furthermore, no changes in either transcript were induced by the combined scheduled feeding and wheel access condition. These data indicate that scheduled feeding or wheel running alter BDNF and NCAM1 expression levels in specific regions of the mesocorticolimbic pathway. These findings contribute to our current knowledge of the molecular alterations induced by ABA and may help elucidate possible mechanisms of AN pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily V. Ho
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
| | - Stephanie J. Klenotich
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Matthew S. McMurray
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Stephanie C Dulawa
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Kim BY, Lee SH, Graham PL, Angelucci F, Lucia A, Pareja-Galeano H, Leyhe T, Turana Y, Lee IR, Yoon JH, Shin JI. Peripheral Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels in Alzheimer's Disease and Mild Cognitive Impairment: a Comprehensive Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Mol Neurobiol 2016; 54:7297-7311. [PMID: 27815832 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-016-0192-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is becoming a growing global problem, and there is an urgent need to identify reliable blood biomarkers of the risk and progression of this condition. A potential candidate is the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which modulates major trophic effects in the brain. However, findings are apparently inconsistent regarding peripheral blood BDNF levels in AD patients vs. healthy people. We thus performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of the studies that have examined peripheral BDNF levels in patients with AD or mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and healthy controls. We searched articles through PubMed, EMBASE, and hand searching. Over a total pool of 2061 potential articles, 26 met all inclusion criteria (including a total of 1584 AD patients, 556 MCI patients, and 1294 controls). A meta-analysis of BDNF levels between early AD and controls showed statistically significantly higher levels (SMD [95 % CI]: 0.72 [0.31, 1.13]) with no heterogeneity. AD patients with a low (<20) mini-mental state examination (MMSE) score had lower peripheral BDNF levels compared with controls (SMD [95 % CI]: -0.33 [-0.60, -0.05]). However, we found no statistically significant difference in blood (serum/plasma) BDNF levels between all AD patients and controls (standard mean difference, SMD [95 % CI]: -0.16 [-0.4, 0.07]), and there was heterogeneity among studies (P < 0.0001, I 2 = 85.8 %). There were no differences in blood BDNF levels among AD or MCI patients vs. controls by subgroup analyses according to age, sex, and drug use. In conclusion, this meta-analysis shows that peripheral blood BDNF levels seem to be increased in early AD and decreased in AD patients with low MMSE scores respectively compared with their age- and sex-matched healthy referents. At present, however, this could not be concluded from individual studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bo Yi Kim
- College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Seon Heui Lee
- Department of Nursing Science, College of Nursing, Gachon University, Incheon, South Korea
| | - Petra L Graham
- Department of Statistics, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Francesco Angelucci
- Department of Clinical and Behavioural Neurology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Alejandro Lucia
- Research Institute of Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), European University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Helios Pareja-Galeano
- Research Institute of Hospital 12 de Octubre (i+12), European University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Thomas Leyhe
- Center of Old Age Psychiatry, Psychiatric University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Yuda Turana
- Department of Neurology, Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - I Re Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50 Yonsei-Ro, Seoul, 120-752, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji Hye Yoon
- College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jae Il Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 50 Yonsei-Ro, Seoul, 120-752, Republic of Korea.
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Phillips KE, Jimerson DC, Pillai A, Wolfe BE. Plasma BDNF levels following weight recovery in anorexia nervosa. Physiol Behav 2016; 165:300-3. [PMID: 27542517 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2016.08.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Revised: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Preclinical studies have implicated brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the regulation of eating behavior and body weight. As reviewed in this report, prior studies of BDNF levels in anorexia nervosa have yielded variable results, perhaps reflecting effects of malnutrition and psychiatric comorbidity. The goal of the current report was to assess plasma BDNF as a biomarker in weight-recovered individuals with a history of anorexia nervosa (ANWR). METHODS Study groups included women meeting criteria for ANWR and healthy female controls. Participants were in a normal weight range, free of current major psychiatric disorder, and free of medication. Self-ratings included eating disorder symptoms, depression and anxiety. Plasma BDNF levels were measured by enzyme linked immunoassay. RESULTS Plasma BDNF levels were not significantly different for ANWR and control groups. Plasma BDNF levels were inversely correlated with anxiety ratings in controls (p<0.02) but not in the ANWR group. DISCUSSION This report provides new evidence that circulating BDNF concentrations do not differ in healthy controls and ANWR free of psychiatric comorbidity. Additionally, the data provide new information on the relationship between plasma BDNF and anxiety in these two study groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn E Phillips
- Fairfield University, 1073 N. Benson Rd., Fairfield, CT 06824, United States.
| | - David C Jimerson
- Harvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., Boston, MA 02215, United States.
| | - Anilkumar Pillai
- Augusta University, 1120 15th St., Augusta, GA 30912, United States.
| | - Barbara E Wolfe
- University of Rhode Island, College of Nursing, 39 Butterfield Rd., White Hall, Kingston, RI 02881, United States.
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McClelland J, Kekic M, Bozhilova N, Nestler S, Dew T, Van den Eynde F, David AS, Rubia K, Campbell IC, Schmidt U. A Randomised Controlled Trial of Neuronavigated Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) in Anorexia Nervosa. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0148606. [PMID: 27008620 PMCID: PMC4805273 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0148606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Anorexia nervosa (AN) is associated with morbid fear of fatness, extreme food restriction and altered self-regulation. Neuroimaging data implicate fronto-striatal circuitry, including the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Methods In this double-blind parallel group study, we investigated the effects of one session of sham-controlled high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to the left DLPFC (l-DLPFC) in 60 individuals with AN. A food exposure task was administered before and after the procedure to elicit AN-related symptoms. Outcomes The primary outcome measure was ‘core AN symptoms’, a variable which combined several subjective AN-related experiences. The effects of rTMS on other measures of psychopathology (e.g. mood), temporal discounting (TD; intertemporal choice behaviour) and on salivary cortisol concentrations were also investigated. Safety, tolerability and acceptability were assessed. Results Fourty-nine participants completed the study. Whilst there were no interaction effects of rTMS on core AN symptoms, there was a trend for group differences (p = 0.056): after controlling for pre-rTMS scores, individuals who received real rTMS had reduced symptoms post-rTMS and at 24-hour follow-up, relative to those who received sham stimulation. Other psychopathology was not altered differentially following real/sham rTMS. In relation to TD, there was an interaction trend (p = 0.060): real versus sham rTMS resulted in reduced rates of TD (more reflective choice behaviour). Salivary cortisol concentrations were unchanged by stimulation. rTMS was safe, well–tolerated and was considered an acceptable intervention. Conclusions This study provides modest evidence that rTMS to the l-DLPFC transiently reduces core symptoms of AN and encourages prudent decision making. Importantly, individuals with AN considered rTMS to be a viable treatment option. These findings require replication in multiple-session studies to evaluate therapeutic efficacy. Trial Registration www.Controlled-Trials.comISRCTN22851337
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica McClelland
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Maria Kekic
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Natali Bozhilova
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Steffen Nestler
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tracy Dew
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, King’s College Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Frederique Van den Eynde
- Neuromodulation Research Clinic, Douglas Mental Health University Institute, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Anthony S. David
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katya Rubia
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Iain C. Campbell
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ulrike Schmidt
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) Treatment in Enduring Anorexia Nervosa: A Case Series. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2015; 24:157-63. [DOI: 10.1002/erv.2414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Revised: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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49
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Gervasini G, Gamero-Villarroel C. Discussing the putative role of obesity-associated genes in the etiopathogenesis of eating disorders. Pharmacogenomics 2015; 16:1287-1305. [DOI: 10.2217/pgs.15.77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to the identification of mutations clearly related to Mendelian forms of obesity; genome-wide association studies and follow-up studies have in the last years pinpointed several loci associated with BMI. These genetic alterations are located in or near genes expressed in the hypothalamus that are involved in the regulation of eating behavior. Accordingly, it seems plausible that these SNPs, or others located in related genes, could also help develop aberrant conduct patterns that favor the establishment of eating disorders should other susceptibility factors or personality dimensions be present. However, and somewhat surprisingly, with few exceptions such as BDNF, the great majority of the genes governing these pathways remain untested in patients with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa or binge-eating disorder. In the present work, we review the few existing studies, but also indications and biological concepts that point to these genes in the CNS as good candidates for association studies with eating disorder patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermo Gervasini
- Department of Medical & Surgical Therapeutics, Division of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Extremadura, Av. Elvas s/n, E-06005, Badajoz, Spain
| | - Carmen Gamero-Villarroel
- Department of Medical & Surgical Therapeutics, Division of Pharmacology, Medical School, University of Extremadura, Av. Elvas s/n, E-06005, Badajoz, Spain
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50
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Eddy KT, Lawson EA, Meade C, Meenaghan E, Horton SE, Misra M, Klibanski A, Miller KK. Appetite regulatory hormones in women with anorexia nervosa: binge-eating/purging versus restricting type. J Clin Psychiatry 2015; 76:19-24. [PMID: 25098834 PMCID: PMC4408926 DOI: 10.4088/jcp.13m08753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2013] [Accepted: 02/04/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric illness characterized by low weight, disordered eating, and hallmark neuroendocrine dysfunction. Behavioral phenotypes are defined by predominant restriction or bingeing/purging; binge-eating/purging type anorexia nervosa is associated with poorer outcome. The pathophysiology underlying anorexia nervosa types is unknown, but altered hormones, known to be involved in eating behaviors, may play a role. METHOD To examine the role of anorexigenic hormones in anorexia nervosa subtypes, we examined serum levels of peptide YY (PYY; total and active [3-36] forms), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and leptin as primary outcomes in women with DSM-5 restricting type anorexia nervosa (n = 50), binge-eating/purging type anorexia nervosa (n = 25), and healthy controls (n = 22). In addition, women completed validated secondary outcome measures of eating disorder psychopathology (Eating Disorder Examination-Questionnaire) and depression and anxiety symptoms (Hamilton Rating Scales for Depression [HDRS] and Anxiety [HARS]). The study samples were collected from May 22, 2004, to February 7, 2012. RESULTS Mean PYY 3-36 and leptin levels were lower and BDNF levels higher in binge-eating/purging type anorexia nervosa than in restricting type anorexia nervosa (all P values < .05). After controlling for body mass index, differences in PYY and PYY 3-36 between anorexia nervosa types were significant (P < .05) and differences in BDNF were at the trend level (P < .10). PYY 3-36 was positively (r = 0.27, P = .02) and leptin was negatively (r = -0.51, P < .0001) associated with dietary restraint; BDNF was positively associated with frequency of purging (r = 0.21, P = .04); and leptin was negatively associated with frequency of bingeing (r = -0.29, P = .007) and purging (r = -0.31, P = .004). CONCLUSIONS Among women with anorexia nervosa, the anorexigenic hormones PYY, BDNF, and leptin are differentially regulated between the restricting and binge/purge types. Whether these hormone pathways play etiologic roles with regard to anorexia nervosa behavioral types or are compensatory merits further study.
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