Coping strategies and stress‐induced natural killer cell redistribution in women with eating disorders

Abstract

Background: Patients with eating disorders (ED) are very sensitive and responsive to psychosocial stress. Stress response includes changes in immune cell distribution and may be modulated by the capability to cope with stressors. Thus, the present study sought to analyze the association between coping strategies and immune response (natural killer [NK] cell redistribution following psychosocial stress) in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN) and healthy controls (HC).Method: Twenty-four AN patients, 29 BN patients, and 58 HC were studied. A multidimensional assessment tool, the COPE Inventory, was used to assess coping strategies.The number of NK cells was quantified in peripheral blood before and after the application of the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). Potentially mediating variables, such as weight status, severity of eating pathology, depression, anxiety, and impulsivity were controlled. Results:The three groups differed in intensity and direction of cell redistribution:The TSST was followed in BN patients by a significant decrease in the number of NK cells, whereas HC displayed a moderate decrease and AN a clear increase. Specific correlations between coping strategies and NK cell mobilization were found, especially in BN patients (positive for "planning" and negative for "substance abuse").Conclusion: Recognition and subsequent modification of the dysfunctional coping strategies used by patients with ED could contribute to improving their immune status, strengthening their resilience and increasing their ability to overcome the disease. K E Y W O R D Sanorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, leukocyte, natural killer cells, stress, Trier Social Stress Test

By what molecular mechanisms do social determinants impact cardiometabolic risk?

“…In women with eating disorders, NK cell redistribution was significantly altered after encountering an acute psychosocial stressor. However, when women engaged in coping strategies, the acute stress response of NK cells was blunted [ 194 ]. Reduced and altered stress response in NK cells has also been studied in the setting of psychosis and psychosis with childhood trauma [ 195 ]; changes in T cells were also reported.…”