The recent discovery of a hormone called LEAP2 in anorexia nervosa patients has opened up exciting possibilities for understanding and treating this complex disorder. This hormone, produced by the liver and intestines, works against ghrelin, the hormone that signals hunger to the brain. The study, conducted by Dr. Virginie Tolle and her team, found that patients with anorexia nervosa had 20% higher levels of LEAP2 in their blood when they were first hospitalised, compared to their levels after four months of hospital treatment. This difference was particularly apparent in patients who relapsed six months after being discharged from hospital.
What makes this finding even more intriguing is the link between LEAP2 and impulse control. Patients who had higher scores of impulse control after four months of hospital treatment had relatively less of the ghrelin hormone compared to levels of LEAP2 in their blood. This suggests that LEAP2 may play a role in the connection between the digestive system and the brain, and how this goes wrong in anorexia nervosa.
The study also involved mice, which were fed normally, then their food was restricted to 50% for 15 days, before normal feeding was restored. Impulsivity was tested by giving mice the choice between a small food reward that was delivered immediately, or a larger reward that was delivered after a time delay. Researchers found that the mice were more impulsive when their food was restricted and their impulsivity was only partially restored by refeeding. Higher levels of LEAP2 were also linked to higher impulsivity when the mice were being refed.
This research has significant implications for the treatment of anorexia nervosa. By understanding the role of LEAP2 in the disorder, we may be able to develop more effective treatments. For example, testing levels of LEAP2 could predict who is likely to relapse, meaning treatment and care can be tailored to provide the right level of support. Additionally, learning more about this molecule and how it relates to anorexia nervosa might lead to the development of a pharmacological treatment for patients in the future.
The study also highlights the importance of considering both metabolic and psychiatric origins of anorexia nervosa. Recent research has shown that there is a genetic link between anorexia nervosa and metabolic traits such as blood glucose and insulin resistance. This suggests that anorexia nervosa may be a disorder with both metabolic and psychiatric origins, rather than just a psychiatric condition. By understanding the complex factors that contribute to anorexia nervosa, we will gain a better understanding of this disorder and ultimately find new personalised treatment strategies for patients.
In conclusion, the discovery of the LEAP2 hormone in anorexia nervosa patients has opened up exciting possibilities for understanding and treating this complex disorder. By understanding the role of LEAP2 in the disorder, we may be able to develop more effective treatments and improve the lives of those affected by this devastating condition.
