Understanding Compulsive Eating and Brain Changes
Extensive drug histories result in compulsive appetite: functional identification of punishment-reactive neural network re-organization in the rostromedial tegmental nucleus
This research explores how extensive drug use histories might lead to compulsive eating behaviors by looking at specific brain changes, hoping to find new ways to help people with binge eating disorder.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11177917 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into why binge eating disorder and bulimia nervosa share similarities with drug addiction, including common behaviors, brain patterns, and genetic risks. Our work suggests that like drug addiction, compulsive eating might be driven by changes in the brain that make it hard to stop, even when there are negative consequences. By studying these brain changes in animal models, we hope to uncover the underlying reasons for compulsive behaviors in both eating disorders and addiction. This understanding could pave the way for new strategies to help individuals struggling with these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for anyone interested in the biological roots of binge eating disorder and how it might relate to addiction, as future treatments could emerge from these findings.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate direct treatment or participation opportunities will not find them within this specific basic science grant, as it focuses on understanding disease mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a deeper understanding of compulsive eating and addiction, potentially inspiring new and more effective treatments for binge eating disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary findings in animal models suggest that extensive drug histories can trigger compulsive food intake, providing a novel model for studying the shared mechanisms between eating disorders and addiction.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Mayo Clinic Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Suto, Nobuyoshi — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Suto, Nobuyoshi
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.