Genetic study on eating disorders
Official title: Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative 2
Run by University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill · NCT06594913 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to understand the genetic and environmental causes of eating disorders by gathering information from 20,000 people with different eating disorders and healthy individuals.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 12 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 20000 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill Academic / other |
| Locations | 5 sites (Chapel Hill, North Carolina and 4 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 28, 2024 |
| Main results expected | September 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | September 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | July 8, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06594913 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include individuals aged 12-99 with a history of specified eating disorders or no history of disordered eating behaviors.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a history of subthreshold disordered eating behaviors may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The Eating Disorders Genetics Initiative 2 aims to enroll 20,000 participants with various eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder, as well as control subjects. The study focuses on increasing diversity and understanding the genetic and environmental factors associated with these conditions. Participants will complete questionnaires and provide saliva samples for genetic analysis, which will help researchers identify connections between different eating disorders and inform future treatment development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals with eating disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies focusing on the genetics of eating disorders have shown promise, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * A lifetime history of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, avoidant restrictive food intake disorders or no history of any disordered eating behavior, based on DSM-5 criteria algorithms * Age 12-99 years, depending on country. (US enrollment age is 18-99) Exclusion Criteria: * History of subthreshold disordered eating behaviors.
Where it's running
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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States Recruiting -
QIMR Berghofer
Brisbane, Queensland, Australia Recruiting -
Comenzar de Nuevo
Monterrey, Mexico Recruiting -
University of Otago
Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand Recruiting -
Karolinska Institutet
Stockholm, Sweden Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Cynthia Bulik, PhD — University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Laura M Thornton, PhD
- Email: laura_thornton@med.unc.edu
- Phone: 804-690-3079
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Eating Disorder Dynamic Intervention
A digital program is tested to help adults with eating disorders by sending real-time, personalized coping tips based on smartphone surveys and sensor data.
-
An AI chatbot to help teens and young adults with eating disorders manage anxiety about weight gain
This project will test an AI-powered chatbot that delivers exposure-based exercises to help adolescents and young adults in a partial hospitalization program reduce anxiety about weight gain.
-
Long-term observation of severe eating disorders
This study is tracking adolescents and adults with severe eating disorders over many years to see what factors affect their health and recovery.
-
New treatment program for adolescents with eating disorders
This study is testing a new treatment program for teenagers with serious eating disorders to see if it helps them feel better and recover over about 16 to 20 weeks.
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A platform for collecting health data on ME/CFS and Long Covid
This study is trying to collect health information from adults with ME/CFS and Long Covid to help researchers better understand these conditions and improve future treatments.
-
Long-term study on eating disorders
This study is trying to understand eating disorders like Anorexia and Bulimia by looking at patients over time to find clues that could help improve treatments.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.