A Pragmatic Study of the Gut Microbiota Across Varying Weight Presentations in Adolescents with Anorexia Nervosa and Atypical Anorexia Nervosa
Abstract
Abstract Background: Eating disorders (EDs) including anorexia nervosa (AN) and atypical anorexia nervosa (AAN) are characterized by restriction of energy intake and associated nutritional disturbances, which can substantially alter the intestinal microbial environment. Using a pragmatic sampling design, we compared gut microbial composition and function between adolescent females receiving treatment for AN or AAN and healthy controls (HCs). We further examined whether stratification by percentage treatment goal weight (%TGW) could provide additional clinical context for interpreting microbial variation during treatment.
Methods:: Stool samples were collected from female adolescents with EDs (n = 61) and age-matched HCs (n = 18; 11–17 years). Microbial diversity and composition were assessed using 16S rRNA gene (V3–V4) sequencing, and fecal short-chain (SCFA) and branched-chain fatty acid (BCFA) concentrations were measured by gas chromatography. Secondary analyses compared these microbial outcomes among ED participants stratified by %TGW (90%, n = 20) and HCs.
Results:: Microbial community diversity and composition were altered in the ED cohort compared to HCs, as indicated by reduced α-diversity (e.g. evenness), altered β-diversity (i.e. Aitchison, Bray-Curtis), and greater inter-individual microbial variability (β-dispersion). Differential abundance analysis identified differences in several low-abundance genera, including higher Ruminococcus gnavus group and lower…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cohort study, done in people. Its evidence level is 3 of 5 (Moderate · trial / cohort / secondary analysis). Trials without a large randomized design, cohorts and secondary analyses give moderate evidence. Reported size: 61 participants or records.
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