Investigating brain function in anorexia and bulimia nervosa
Incentive Processing and Learning in Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa
This study is trying to see how the brains of women with anorexia and bulimia respond to rewards compared to healthy women, using brain scans while they do tasks and eat a meal.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 252 (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 | NCT05056597 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore the brain areas involved in 'liking', 'wanting', and learning in adults with anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa using advanced brain imaging techniques. It will involve 252 women aged 18-39, including those with different types of eating disorders and healthy controls. Participants will undergo functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while engaging in computer tasks, a test meal, and completing self-report questionnaires and interviews. The study will assess neural differences in reward processing and how these relate to clinical symptoms over time.
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 other significant medical conditions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying eating disorders, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results in understanding brain function in eating disorders, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
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 AN-R, AN-BP, or BN Healthy Control Group: * Between the ages of 18 and 39 years old * Have maintained 85% to 120% ideal body weight since menarche Exclusion Criteria: All Groups: * 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 Wierenga
- 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.