Investigating brain changes in anorexia nervosa and their impact on treatment outcomes

The ENIGMA - Eating Disorders Initiative: A Global Neuroimaging Study of Anorexia and Factors Affecting Clinical Outcomes

['FUNDING_U01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-11072087

This study is looking at how anorexia nervosa affects the brain to help us understand why some treatments work better than others, and it’s for anyone interested in improving care for people with this eating disorder.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_U01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11072087 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the neurobiological mechanisms behind anorexia nervosa (AN), a severe eating disorder with high mortality rates. By utilizing advanced neuroimaging techniques, the study aims to identify brain alterations associated with AN and how these changes affect treatment responses and long-term outcomes. The research will involve collaboration among global experts to gather data on clinical measures, risk factors, and brain abnormalities, ultimately seeking to improve understanding and treatment of this condition.

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 or related eating disorders.

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 and better outcomes for individuals suffering from anorexia nervosa.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain mechanisms in eating disorders, but this initiative aims to expand on those findings with a global perspective.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 →

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.