Investigating how estrogen affects brain function in adolescents with eating disorders
The Role of Estrogen in the Neurobiology of Eating Disorders: A Study of Cognitive Flexibility and Reward in Eating Disorders
This study is looking at how estrogen levels might affect thinking and decision-making in teenagers with eating disorders, hoping to find new ways to help them feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10591474 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between estrogen levels and cognitive flexibility in adolescents suffering from eating disorders. It focuses on how low estrogen may impact the brain's reward system and cognitive processes, which are crucial for understanding and treating these disorders. By examining the effects of estrogen on brain function, the study aims to identify new treatment targets that could improve outcomes for affected individuals. Participants will undergo assessments to evaluate their cognitive flexibility and responses to rewards, providing valuable insights into the neurobiology of eating disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents aged 12-20 who are experiencing eating disorders characterized by extreme dietary restriction or excessive exercise.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 12-20 or those not diagnosed with eating disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for adolescents with eating disorders by targeting hormonal influences on brain function.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between hormonal changes and cognitive function in adolescents, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Eddy, Kamryn T — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Eddy, Kamryn T
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 below.