Evaluation of asprosin levels in growth hormone-deficient children

Background: Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD) in children is a rare endocrine condition characterized by a low GH secretion that minimizes the secretion of growth factors such as Insulin-Like Growth Factor-I (IGF-I). Asprosin (ASP), a novel adipokine predominantly secreted by white adipose tissue, plays a crucial role in the liver's production of glucose. Elevated levels of ASP are observed in metabolic diseases. Aim and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the levels of ASP in pediatric patients with GHD. Material and Methods: This research included 40 subjects (children) with GHD and 50 healthy control subjects, with measurements conducted using ELISA kits for ASP. Results: We found the levels of ASP to be significantly higher in the patient group (mean 5.7, range 2.28-17.79 ng/ml) compared to the control group (mean 4.1, range 3.12-5.21 ng/ml) (p < 0.001). Conclusion: This finding suggests a potential link between GHD and altered ASP secretion. Elevated levels of ASP in GHD patients may contribute to metabolic dysregulation, insulin resistance, and other associated complications.