Serum levels of phoenixin and nesfatin in patients with iron, vitamin B12 or vitamin D deficiency: a comparative study

Abstract

Objective Micronutrient deficiencies are recognized as critical factors contributing to the global burden of disease. Phoenixin-14 and nesfatin-1 newly discovered neuropeptides which have been related to various physiological processes and potential therapeutic applications. This study was conducted to test whether circulating concentrations of nesfatin-1 and phoenixin-14 were altered in individuals with iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D and combined deficiencies. Method Our study group consists of 33 patients with iron deficiency, 30 patients with vitamin B12 deficiency, 33 patients with vitamin D deficiency, 32 patients with combined deficiency, 24 patients who received vitamin D supplementation and 32 control subjects. Serum nesfatin-1 and phoenixin-14 concentrations were determined measured by Enzyme-Linked ImmunoSorbent Assay method. Results Serum phoenixin-14 values were significantly lower in subjects with iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D and combined deficiency compared with the healthy group. After vitamin D supplementation, serum phoenixin-14 levels did not differ significantly with the healthy group. Serum nesfatin-1 concentrations were significantly lower in subjects with iron, vitamin B12 and combined deficiency compared with the healthy group. There was no significant difference in nesfatin-1 values between those with vitamin D deficiency, those taking vitamin D3 supplements and the healthy controls. Conclusion Significant differences in phoenixin-14 and nesfatin-1 levels between iron, vitamin D, vitamin B12 deficiency and the healthy control group supports that these molecules related to the pathogenesis of micronutrient deficiencies. Phoenixin-14 and nesfatin-1 may be considered potential biomarkers of micronutrient deficiencies.