Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative 2 (EDGI2)
Official title: 1/3 Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative 2 (EDGI2)
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11309155 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A large international study to understand the genetics of eating disorders, including binge eating, to help Americans with these conditions in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | May 13, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,832,091 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH136149-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11309155 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, ARFID, or related traits who are willing to participate online and provide DNA samples; especially those with severe and enduring AN.
✕Less likely to help
People who are not interested in genetic research or who cannot provide consent or DNA samples may not benefit.
What this research studies
EDGI2 is a collaborative, global effort to enroll about 20,000 people with eating disorders and matched controls, collecting DNA and health information through an online platform. The project uses genome-wide analyses to identify genetic factors and subgroups within anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, ARFID, and related traits. Researchers will explore how biology and behavior connect, aiming to reveal clinically meaningful patterns that could guide future treatments. Results from this study could lead to more personalized approaches for people living with eating disorders in the U.S.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the project could pave the way for genetics-informed prevention and personalized therapies for eating disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Prior EDGI work was highly successful and EDGI2 aims to expand and refine those findings with larger, diverse populations.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bulik, Cynthia M — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Bulik, Cynthia M
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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This project tests a new, identity-affirming treatment approach designed to help sexual minority adults with eating disorders by addressing stigma-related stress and coping skills.
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Restrictive eating disorders and brain white matter development in youths
Researchers will study how restrictive eating disorders affect brain white matter development in young people using brain scans and related data.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.