Investigating brain activity related to decision making in eating disorders
Official title: Avoidance-driven Decision Making and Learning in Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa
Run by University of California, San Diego · NCT06566612 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to see how the brains of women with anorexia and bulimia react when making decisions about food compared to women without eating disorders.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 39 Years |
| Sex | Women only |
| Enrollment | 78 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of California, San Diego Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (La Jolla, California) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | July 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | July 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 1, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06566612 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include women aged 18-39 who meet DSM-V criteria for anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with psychotic illnesses, substance dependence, or significant physical or neurological conditions 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
This observational study aims to explore the brain regions involved in avoidance learning among adults with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa using advanced brain imaging techniques. It will include 78 women aged 18-39, divided into groups of those with eating disorders and healthy controls. Participants will undergo functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while performing computer tasks and completing self-report questionnaires to assess behavioral differences and brain activity related to avoidance learning. The study will evaluate how these factors correlate with symptoms of the disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying eating disorders, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While studies on brain activity in eating disorders exist, this specific focus on avoidance learning using fMRI is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Eating Disorder Group: * Between the ages of 18 and 39 years old * Meet DSM-V criteria for anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa Healthy Controls: * Between the ages of 18 and 39 years old * Have maintained 85% to 120% ideal body weight since menarche Exclusion Criteria: * Psychotic illness/other mental illness requiring hospitalization * Current dependence on drugs or alcohol defined by DSM IV criteria. Additionally, positive test results for drug use on the day of the scan, apart of marijuana, will result in cancelling or rescheduling the scan because acute use will impact MRI measures. * Physical conditions (e.g. diabetes mellitus, pregnancy) known to influence eating or weight * Neurological disorder, neurodevelopmental disorder, or history of head injury with \>30 min loss of consciousness * Any contraindication to undergoing an MRI * Primary obsessive compulsive disorder or primary major depressive disorder Additional Exclusion Criteria for ED Group: * If taking other psychotropic medication, any change in dosage in the 2 weeks before scanning Additional Exclusion Criteria for Healthy Control Group: * Meet criteria for the diagnosis of any psychiatric disorder currently * Any history of binge eating or purging behaviors, including self-induced vomiting, laxative or diuretic misuse * Use of any psychoactive or other medication known to affect mood or concentration in the last 3 months
Where it's running
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UCSD Eating Disorders Treatment and Research Program
La Jolla, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Christina E Wierenga, PhD
- Email: cwierenga@health.ucsd.edu
- Phone: 858-534-8047
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Eating Disorder Dynamic Intervention
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-
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This project will try to create 'digital twin' profiles that combine glucose, mood, and behavior data to track mental health patterns in adults with diabetes.
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Gastrointestinal symptoms during weight restoration in anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa with different diets
This project will test whether different nutritional strategies (flexitarian, vegetarian, or vegan) change gastrointestinal symptoms during multi-week inpatient weight rehabilitation for people with anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
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Using fMRI to study brain activity in patients with eating disorders
This study is testing how brain activity changes in people with anorexia or bulimia over a year to see if these changes relate to their symptoms getting better.
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.