Investigating how drug histories affect appetite and brain function

Extensive drug histories result in compulsive appetite: functional identification of punishment-reactive neural network re-organization in the rostromedial tegmental nucleus

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11135098

This study looks at how drug use might affect the brain and lead to binge-eating and bulimia, using rats to see if their past drug experiences can cause similar eating urges, which could help us understand these eating disorders better.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11135098 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between binge-eating disorder (BED), bulimia nervosa (BN), and drug addiction by examining how extensive drug use influences brain changes that lead to compulsive eating behaviors. Using an animal model, the study investigates how histories of drug use, such as cocaine and alcohol, can trigger similar compulsive appetites in rats, suggesting a shared neurobiological mechanism. The research aims to identify the brain networks involved in these behaviors, which could help in understanding the underlying causes of these eating disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with binge-eating disorder or bulimia nervosa, particularly those with a history of substance use.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have eating disorders or a history of drug use may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for individuals suffering from binge-eating disorder and bulimia nervosa.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobiological links between addiction and compulsive behaviors, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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.
Conditions Binge eating disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.