Activities of respiratory chain complexes in isolated platelets in females with anorexia nervosa

Abstract

Objective: A broad spectrum of endocrine and biochemical disturbances was observed in patients with anorexia nervosa. In addition, metabolic changes may concern the efficiency of mitochondrial energy generating system. In our study we analyzed the activities of respiratory chain complexes in females with anorexia nervosa. Method: The activities of respiratory chain complexes I, II, IV, I + III, and citrate synthase serving as the control enzyme were measured spectrophotometrically in isolated platelets in 36 females with anorexia nervosa (BMI 15 ± 1.7) at the age 18-35 years and in 37 age related female controls (BMI 21 ± 2.2). Results: In females with anorexia nervosa, the activities of respiratory chain complexes I and II in isolated platelets were significantly higher in comparison with controls. No differences were found in the activities of complexes IV and I + III and citrate synthase. Conclusion: Our results suggest higher efficiency of some respiratory chain complexes in platelets in females with anorexia nervosa. © 2007 by Wiley Periodicals, Inc.