Investigating brain activity related to decision making in eating disorders
Avoidance-driven Decision Making and Learning in Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa
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 |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 78 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 39 Years |
| Sex | Female |
| Sponsor | University of California, San Diego Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (La Jolla, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT06566612 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include women aged 18-39 who meet DSM-V criteria for anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
Not a fit: Patients with psychotic illnesses, substance dependence, or significant physical or neurological conditions may not benefit from this study.
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 performed: While studies on brain activity in eating disorders exist, this specific focus on avoidance learning using fMRI is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
La Jolla, California
- 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
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.