I recently listened to and absolutely loved the new “rabbit hole” segment on our member site! This type of content really sets SSRP apart; it was truly fascinating and got my wheels turning. I have a client whose daughter has been struggling with anorexia, .
I am not a physician but, I consult for a number of them (including her doctor) so I wanted to ask the experts on here if my thinking was correct. Please correct me wherever I am wrong, I am here to learn and grateful for this opportunity to be a part of your community. Any insights you guys can share would be greatly appreciated.
I am including the list of possibilities I can up with. These peptides, through their specific mechanisms of action on cellular pathways related to appetite, mood, and obsessive behavior, present a promising avenue for managing anorexia nervosa. Integrating these peptides into a holistic treatment plan could offer significant benefits in addressing the complex physiological and psychological challenges of this disorder. I think there may be some additional benefit to targeting the ghrelin pathway, leptin levels and NPY but I thought I would suggest starting with these.
Kisspeptin
Mechanism of Action:
Kisspeptin is a peptide crucial for regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which is essential for reproductive function. It binds to the G-protein-coupled receptor GPR54, leading to the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which subsequently stimulates the secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland.
Benefits in Anorexia:
1. Hormonal Regulation: Kisspeptin’s role in stimulating GnRH release can help restore hormonal balance disrupted by anorexia, which often leads to amenorrhea and other reproductive issues.
2. Appetite Stimulation:Some studies suggest that kisspeptin can influence appetite regulation by modulating neurons in the hypothalamus, potentially increasing food intake and counteracting the restrictive eating behaviors seen in anorexia.
Vasopressin
Mechanism of Action:
Vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), acts primarily through V1 and V2 receptors. V1 receptors are involved in vasoconstriction, while V2 receptors promote water reabsorption in the kidneys. Additionally, vasopressin impacts social behaviors and stress response through its action in the brain.
Benefits in Anorexia:
1. Mood Regulation:Vasopressin’s effects on social behavior and stress response can be beneficial in managing the anxiety and obsessive-compulsive behaviors often associated with anorexia.
2. Hydration and Electrolyte Balance: By promoting water reabsorption in the kidneys, vasopressin can help maintain proper hydration and electrolyte balance, which is crucial for individuals with anorexia who may suffer from dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Oxytocin
Mechanism of Action:
Oxytocin is a peptide hormone that acts through the oxytocin receptor, a G-protein-coupled receptor found in various brain regions, including the hypothalamus and amygdala. It is known for its role in social bonding, reducing anxiety, and modulating reward pathways.
Benefits in Anorexia:
1.Reducing Anxiety and Stress: Oxytocin’s anxiolytic properties can help reduce the high levels of anxiety and stress common in individuals with anorexia, improving overall mood and well-being.
2. Modulating Reward Pathways: By influencing the reward circuitry in the brain, oxytocin can help address the altered reward responses to food and eating behaviors seen in anorexia.
3. Improving Social Interactions: Enhanced social bonding and reduced social anxiety facilitated by oxytocin can provide psychological support and improve the patient’s engagement in social activities and therapy.
Research Citations
– Kisspeptin’s role in appetite regulation: Skorupskaite, K., George, J. T., & Anderson, R. A. (2014). The Kisspeptin-GnRH Pathway in Human Reproductive Health and Disease. Human Reproduction Update, 20(4), 485-500.
– Vasopressin and social behavior: Meyer-Lindenberg, A., Domes, G., Kirsch, P., & Heinrichs, M. (2011). Oxytocin and Vasopressin in the Human Brain: Social Neuropeptides for Translational Medicine. Nature Reviews Neuroscience, 12(9), 524-538.
– Oxytocin’s effects on anxiety and reward pathways: Neumann, I. D., & Landgraf, R. (2012). Balance of Brain Oxytocin and Vasopressin: Implications for Anxiety, Depression, and Social Behaviors. Trends in Neurosciences, 35(11), 649-659.
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