Understanding brain factors that predict recovery from anorexia nervosa

Neural predictors of outcome during relapse prevention treatment for anorexia nervosa

NIH-funded research New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC · NIH-10582173

This study is looking at how brain activity can help predict whether people with anorexia nervosa, who have recently gained weight, will do well in a special treatment program that helps change eating habits, so they can get the best support possible.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10582173 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how brain activity and connectivity can predict treatment outcomes for individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) who have recently normalized their weight. By utilizing fMRI technology, the study aims to identify neural predictors that may indicate the likelihood of relapse during a specialized treatment program called REACH+. This program focuses on changing habitual behaviors related to food intake through cognitive and behavioral therapies. The findings could help tailor more effective treatment strategies for patients struggling with AN.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who have been hospitalized for anorexia nervosa and have achieved weight normalization.

Not a fit: Patients who are under 21 years old or those who have not been hospitalized for anorexia nervosa may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment approaches that reduce relapse rates in patients with anorexia nervosa.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research in other psychiatric conditions has successfully identified neural predictors of treatment response, suggesting potential for similar success in this study.

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.
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.