Understanding how brain stimulation can help treat restrictive eating in anorexia nervosa
Official title: Deciphering the Neural Mechanisms of Restrictive Eating in Anorexia Nervosa Using Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Funded at New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC · NIH-10704120 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain areas affect eating habits in people with anorexia nervosa, using a method called rTMS to see if stimulating these areas can help improve their relationship with food and lead to better treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $194,742 |
| NIH project number | 5K23MH128530-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10704120 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with anorexia nervosa and exhibit restrictive eating patterns.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have anorexia nervosa or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms behind restrictive eating behaviors in individuals with anorexia nervosa by using a technique called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). The study aims to explore how stimulating specific brain regions can influence eating behaviors and potentially lead to new treatment options. By examining brain activity related to food choices, the research seeks to identify effective interventions for those struggling with this severe eating disorder. Participants will undergo rTMS sessions while their brain activity is monitored to assess changes in behavior and neural responses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that effectively reduce restrictive eating behaviors in patients with anorexia nervosa.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using rTMS for various psychiatric conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application for anorexia nervosa.
Where this research is happening
-
New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Muratore, Alexandra Felicia — New York State Psychiatric Institute Dba Research Foundation for Mental Hygiene, INC
- Study coordinator: Muratore, Alexandra Felicia
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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.