How starvation affects brain development in teens with anorexia nervosa

Nutritional deficiency and dopamine: A neurodevelopmental study of starvation effects in adolescent anorexia nervosa

['FUNDING_R01'] · NEW YORK STATE PSYCHIATRIC INSTITUTE DBA RESEARCH FOUNDATION FOR MENTAL HYGIENE, INC · NIH-10534437

This study is looking at how not getting enough healthy fats and proteins in their diet affects the brain and mood of teenagers with anorexia nervosa, to help find better ways to support their recovery.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorNEW YORK STATE PSYCHIATRIC INSTITUTE DBA RESEARCH FOUNDATION FOR MENTAL HYGIENE, INC (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10534437 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of nutritional deficiencies, specifically focusing on dietary fats and amino acids, on the dopamine system in adolescents suffering from anorexia nervosa. It aims to understand how caloric restriction, a common behavior in this condition, affects brain development and mental health. By examining the relationship between diet and dopamine function, the study seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the psychological and physical symptoms of anorexia. The research will involve assessing dietary habits and brain function in affected teens to provide insights into potential interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12 to 20 who are diagnosed with anorexia nervosa.

Not a fit: Patients who are not diagnosed with anorexia nervosa or are outside the age range of 12 to 20 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies that address both the nutritional and psychological needs of adolescents with anorexia nervosa.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that nutritional interventions can positively influence mental health outcomes in adolescents, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Mental disorders, Mental health disorders, Psychiatric Disease, Psychiatric Disorder, psychological disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.