Evaluation of Betatrophin, Chemerin, and Kisspeptin Levels in Acromegaly Patients.

Abstract

Background: Acromegaly is a chronic disorder characterized by excessive growth hormone (GH) secretion from pituitary somatotroph cells, resulting in metabolic complications and increased morbidity. Elevated levels of GH and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) contribute to various metabolic and morphological abnormalities. Betatrophin, produced in the liver and adipose tissue, plays a significant role in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism. Chemerin, an adipokine, influences insulin sensitivity, lipid metabolism, and inflammation. Additionally, kisspeptin, a neuropeptide, stimulates the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the levels of betatrophin, chemerin, and kisspeptin in acromegaly patients and their potential relationship with dyslipidemia and diabetes.

Methods: This study included 40 patients diagnosed with acromegaly and 40 healthy controls. GH and IGF-1 levels were measured, and venous blood samples were analyzed for betatrophin, chemerin, and kisspeptin levels using ELISA.

Results: The analysis revealed no significant difference in betatrophin levels between acromegaly patients and controls (p>0.05). However, significantly lower levels of chemerin and kisspeptin were observed in patients with acromegaly (p<0.001). Furthermore, a significant correlation was identified between IGF-1 and kisspeptin levels, indicating a potential pathway for future research in diagnostics and therapy.

Conclusion: This study highlights the altered levels of chemerin and kisspeptin in acromegaly patients, suggesting their involvement in metabolic dysregulation associated with the condition. Further investigation into the correlation between IGF-1 and kisspeptin could provide insights into developing targeted therapeutic strategies.