Understanding the genetics of eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia

Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative (EDGI)

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10656465

The Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative (EDGI) is looking for people with anorexia, bulimia, or binge-eating disorder to help us understand how genetics and life experiences might affect these conditions, so we can learn more about what makes them happen and how to treat them better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10656465 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

The Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative (EDGI) aims to explore the genetic factors contributing to major eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. By analyzing genetic data and environmental influences, the research seeks to identify shared vulnerabilities and specific traits associated with these disorders. Participants will undergo detailed assessments of their eating behaviors, mental health, and treatment responses, allowing researchers to gather comprehensive data from a diverse group of individuals across multiple countries. This initiative will enhance our understanding of how genetics and environment interact in the development and progression of eating disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include individuals diagnosed with anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, or binge-eating disorder, particularly those from diverse ancestral backgrounds.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a diagnosis of an eating disorder or those with unrelated psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for individuals suffering from eating disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors in eating disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
Conditions Behavior Disordersbehavioral disorderMental disordersMental health disordersPsychiatric Disease
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.