Eating disorders: neuroendocrine changes and potential treatments (review)

Background: Eating disorders (EDs) are a group of conditions with an unknown etiology, which is why a comprehensive therapy program is not yet available. The high prevalence and mortality rates underline the interest and necessity of studying this disorder. Recently, accumulating data suggests potential options for hormonal therapy, both conducted on animals and humans. The aim of the study: The exploration of potential hormonal therapy for the treatment of EDs, analysis and synthesis of current approaches to treating hormonal and psychophysiological disturbances in EDs, as well as a review of research conducted on model objects. Materials and methods: In this study a comprehensive literature review to gather relevant articles and research papers was conducted. Various bibliographic databases, including Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus and etc. were utilized. The search was performed using a combination of key words related to the topic of EDs: eating disorders, hormonal disturbances in EDs, model organisms for studying EDs, and specific queries related to hormones, receptors, and animal models. Results: Current study presents the main hormonal disturbances involved in the development and maintenance of EDs. Various animal models of EDs are presented, along with the use of agonists of key hormones in animal subjects. Additionally, investigations of the medications relamorelin and metreleptin in humans were also included. Conclusion: The effectiveness of hormonal therapy in humans indicates significant improvement in overall condition within relatively short periods. However, such studies are conducted on insufficient sample sizes for representativeness and require comprehensive double-blind placebo-controlled trials to confirm the efficacy and safety of this therapy.