Irisin and Insulin Interplay in Thyroid Disorders: A Pilot Study

Background: This research was performed to evaluate Irisin and Insulin concentrations in Thyroid patients. Material and methods: This investigation was performed as a cross-sectional study within the Biochemistry Department at KMC, Mangalore, and the Central Lab at KMCH-AT, Mangalore. Participants were classified into two cohorts: those having regular thyroid function as well as those having thyroid disorder, including both hypothyroid and hyperthyroid patients, with 28 individuals (n = 28) in each category based on thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels obtained during thyroid dysfunction screenings. Socio-demographic variables like height, weight, and body mass index were calculated, along with the assessment of hypertensive or hypotensive conditions. Insulin levels were quantified using an automated analyzer system. Statistical analyses were performed utilizing Easy-R (EZR) version 1.55, developed by Jichi Medical University in Saitama, Japan. The normal distribution of the parameters was evaluated through normality tests, with t-tests and Kruskal-Wallis tests applied as appropriate. Results: Irisin levels significantly declined in hypothyroid individuals while showing an insignificant rise in hyperthyroidism. Insulin levels significantly increased in hyperthyroid patients compared to normal and hypothyroid groups. A positive correlation between insulin and irisin was found in hypothyroidism, while a negative correlation was observed in hyperthyroidism. Conclusion: Preliminary findings of this study indicate a potential interdependence between Irisin and thyroid levels. Investigating the interaction between the thyroid profile and irisin can pave the way for considering irisin as a biomarker for novel treatment strategies in thyroid disorders and metabolic conditions.