Understanding how certain brain cells affect anorexia behavior in mice
Official title: Elucidating the mechanisms employed by Agouti-related peptide neurons to decrease activity-based anorexia behavior in mice
Funded at Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-11051875 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in mice might affect behaviors like not eating enough and being overly active, which are common in people with anorexia nervosa, to help find new ways to treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 8, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $168,282 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH136654-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11051875 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with anorexia nervosa, particularly those exhibiting hyperactivity and reduced food intake.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have anorexia nervosa or related eating disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific neurons in the brain that may influence behaviors associated with anorexia nervosa, particularly focusing on activity-based anorexia in mice. By studying these neurons, researchers aim to uncover the biological mechanisms that lead to reduced food intake and increased hyperactivity, which are common in individuals with anorexia. The study utilizes a rodent model to explore how these brain cells affect hunger and activity levels, potentially providing insights into the disorder's underlying causes. The findings could help identify new treatment targets for those suffering from anorexia nervosa.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating anorexia nervosa and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the neurobiological factors related to anorexia through animal models, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sutton Hickey, Ames K — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Sutton Hickey, Ames K
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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.