Peripheral Biomarkers of Anorexia Nervosa: A Meta-Analysis

source extracted confidence: high 2026-04-09
#humans #adrenocorticotropic-hormone #anorexia-nervosa #biomarkers #c-reactive-protein

Peripheral Biomarkers of Anorexia Nervosa: A Meta-Analysis

Wu et al., 2024 | Nutrients | Meta Analysis

Citation

Wu Ya-Ke, Watson Hunna J, ... Baker Jessica H. Peripheral Biomarkers of Anorexia Nervosa: A Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2024-Jun-30;16(13). doi:10.3390/nu16132095

Abstract

The pathogenesis of anorexia nervosa (AN) has been hypothesized to involve several biological systems. However, reliable biomarkers for AN have yet to be established. This study was aimed to identify statistically significant and clinically meaningful peripheral biomarkers associated with AN. A systematic literature search was conducted to identify studies published in English from inception until 30 June 2022. We conducted two-level random-effects meta-analyses to examine the difference between AN and comparison groups across 52 distinct biomarkers and found that acylated ghrelin, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), carboxy-terminal collagen crosslinks (CTX), cholesterol, cortisol, des-acyl ghrelin, ghrelin, growth hormone (GH), obestatin, and soluble leptin receptor levels were significantly higher in cases of AN compared with those in non-AN controls. Conversely, C-reactive protein (CRP), CD3 positive, CD8, creatinine, estradiol, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), free thyroxine, free triiodothyronine, glucose, insulin, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), leptin, luteinizing hormone, lymphocyte, and prolactin levels were significantly lower in AN compared with those in non-AN controls. Our findings indicate that peripheral biomarkers may be linked to the pathophysiology of AN, such as processes of adaptation to starvation. Scientific investigation into peripheral biomarkers may ultimately yield breakthroughs in personalized clinical care for AN.

Key Findings

Scientific investigation into peripheral biomarkers may ultimately yield breakthroughs in personalized clinical care for AN.

Outcomes Measured

  • cortisol levels
  • C-reactive protein

Population

Field Value
Population See abstract
Sample Size See abstract
Age Range See abstract
Condition See abstract

MeSH Terms

  • Humans
  • Adrenocorticotropic Hormone
  • Anorexia Nervosa
  • Biomarkers
  • C-Reactive Protein
  • Ghrelin
  • Hydrocortisone
  • Insulin-Like Growth Factor I
  • Leptin

Evidence Classification

  • Level: Meta Analysis
  • Publication Types: Journal Article, Meta-Analysis, Systematic Review
  • Vertical: collagen

Provenance

Source extracted via PubMed E-utilities API on 2026-04-09