Potential diagnostic role of serum asprosin in Graves’ disease with subgroup analysis of subclinical hyperthyroidism

A Case–Control Study

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Asprosin is a recently identified adipokine predominantly released by white adipose tissue and plays a role in gluconeogenesis during fasting. Evidence indicates that adipokines may be involved in endocrine and metabolic control; however, their significance in thyroid dysfunction is still unclear.

Objective: This study aimed to assess circulating asprosin levels in patients with Graves' disease (GD) and subclinical hyperthyroidism (SCH), as well as determine its potential diagnostic use as a biomarker for thyroid disorders.

Methods: This age-, sex-, and BMI-matched case–control study included 40 patients with Graves’ disease (GD), 40 with subclinical hyperthyroidism (SCH), and 80 healthy controls aged 22–59 years. Serum levels of asprosin, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), total thyroxine (T4), thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor antibodies (TRAb), and lipid profile parameters were measured using standardized automated assays.

Results: Serum asprosin levels were significantly lower in patients with Graves’ disease and subclinical hyperthyroidism compared with healthy controls (p < 0.001 for both). Both GD and SCH groups also exhibited significantly reduced levels of TSH and lipid profile parameters, alongside significantly elevated total T4 and TRAb levels (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Reduced serum asprosin in Graves’ disease may reflect hyperthyroidism-related metabolic changes and could serve as a potential biomarker, pending further research.