This record provides bibliographic details and links to the original research. An editorial study breakdown is not available.
What the researchers found
The LEAP-2/ghrelin ratio was significantly elevated in adult GH deficiency, with lower ghrelin levels possibly representing metabolic adaptation to prevent further weight gain.
Why it matters
Understanding how ghrelin and LEAP-2 interact in GH deficiency could reveal new treatment targets for metabolic complications of this condition.
The numbers in context
30 subjects; ghrelin lower in aGHD (p significant); LEAP-2/ghrelin ratio higher (p significant); BMI-ghrelin inverse correlation r2=0.15, p=0.047
How the study worked
Cross-sectional observational pilot study. 15 aGHD patients and 15 healthy controls. Measured fasting blood levels of ghrelin, LEAP-2, glucose, insulin, HOMA, cholesterol, triglycerides, and IGF-1.
Who was studied
15 adults with GH deficiency (median age 53, BMI 27.1) and 15 healthy controls (age 47, BMI 22.9)
What this study cannot tell us
Very small pilot study (30 total). Cross-sectional design cannot determine cause and effect. BMI differed between groups, which could confound results.
Read the original research
LEAP-2/ghrelin interplay in adult growth hormone deficiency: Cause or consequence? A pilot study.
IUBMB life, 73(7), 978-984
Citation
Vergani, Edoardo; Bruno, Carmine; Gavotti, Cesare; Aversa, Luigi Simone; Martire, Maria; Mancini, Antonio; Currò, Diego. (2021). LEAP-2/ghrelin interplay in adult growth hormone deficiency: Cause or consequence? A pilot study.. IUBMB life, 73(7), 978-984. https://doi.org/10.1002/iub.2504