Evaluation of the Levels of Adiponectin, Ghrelin, and Resistin in Alcohol Dependent Male Patients

Objective: There are numerous theories about the etiology of alcohol dependence, at the present time. The most widely accepted hypothesis is a multidimensional approach which includes biological, psychological, and sociological factors playing roles in the etiology and deeming alcohol dependence a disorder. In recent years, the biological factors have been the focus of investigation and various biological parameters have been studied. Since alcohol dependence does not develop in all individuals consuming alcohol, its clinical course varies, and the features of recovery and recurrence of alcohol dependence cannot be predicted; therefore, it is important to investigate the risk factors and possible biological parameters of dependence (5,6). A number of hormones that play various roles in the body have become the subject of research. Hormones affecting food intake may have an effect on alcohol consumption. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the hormones (adiponectin, ghrelin, and resistin) affecting food intake have an effect on alcohol consumption and the hypothesis that they could be indicators for alcohol dependence. Methods: One hundred and seven male patients were included in the study, who were hospitalized at the AMATEM Unit of Ankara Numune Training and Research Hospital for treatment. They were clinically evaluated and diagnosed with alcohol dependence according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) criteria. Fasting blood samples were collected at 08:00 AM on the first day of hospitalization, which was also the day the patients gave up drinking (day 0), and then on the following 7th day to measure adiponectin, ghrelin, and resistin levels. Eighty-three healthy male volunteers, who had not consumed any alcohol for at least ten days, did not meet diagnostic criteria for alcohol dependence or abuse based on the DSM-IV criteria, and were compatible with patient group, were included in this study. Blood samples were taken from the control group once to determine levels of adiponectin, ghrelin, and resistin. Results: There was a statistically significant difference between the alcohol dependent patient group and the healthy control group in terms of adiponectin, ghrelin, and resistin levels. On the first day, the adiponectin and ghrelin levels of the patient group were significantly higher compared to the control group and significantly lower on the seventh day. Resistin levels were signific