Melatonin, the RANKL/RANK/OPG system, and bone metabolism in girls with anorexia nervosa.

Abstract

Our results indicate that the abnormalities of bone metabolism in girls with AN are associated with changes in the nocturnal levels of MEL with RANKL appearing to play an important role in this mechanism. The increased amplitude between the nocturnal and morning levels of MEL may adversely affect the bone tissue in girls with AN with the effect most likely resulting from influences on the OPG/RANKL balance. (Pol J Endocrinol 2010; 61 (1): 117-123).