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Baenas I, Camacho-Barcia L, Miranda-Olivos R, Solé-Morata N, Misiolek A, Jiménez-Murcia S, Fernández-Aranda F. Probiotic and prebiotic interventions in eating disorders: A narrative review. EUROPEAN EATING DISORDERS REVIEW 2024; 32:1085-1104. [PMID: 38297469 DOI: 10.1002/erv.3069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2024]
Abstract
AIMS The review aimed to summarise and discuss findings focused on therapeutic probiotic and prebiotic interventions in eating disorders (ED). METHODS Using PubMed/MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science all published studies were retrieved until February 2023, following PRISMA guidelines. From the 111 initial studies, 5 met the inclusion criteria for this review. RESULTS All studies included in this narrative review were focused on anorexia nervosa (AN). Three longitudinal, randomised, controlled trials aimed to evaluate interventions with probiotics (Lactobacillus reuteri, yoghurt with Lactobacillus, and Streptococcus) in children and adolescents. These studies primarily emphasised medical outcomes and anthropometric measures following the administration of probiotics. However, the findings yielded mixed results in terms of short-term weight gain or alterations in specific immunological parameters. With a lower level of evidence, supplementation with synbiotics (probiotic + prebiotic) has been associated with improvements in microbiota diversity and attenuation of inflammatory responses. CONCLUSIONS Research on probiotics and prebiotics in ED is limited, primarily focussing on anorexia nervosa (AN). Their use in AN regarding medical and anthropometric outcomes needs further confirmation and future research should be warranted to assess their impact on psychological and ED symptomatology, where there is a notable gap in the existing literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Baenas
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Bellvitge University Hospital, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviours, Neuroscience Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Doctoral Program in Medicine and Translational Research, University of Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lucía Camacho-Barcia
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Bellvitge University Hospital, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviours, Neuroscience Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Romina Miranda-Olivos
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Bellvitge University Hospital, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviours, Neuroscience Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Doctoral Program in Medicine and Translational Research, University of Barcelona (UB), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Neus Solé-Morata
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Bellvitge University Hospital, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alejandra Misiolek
- Proyecto Autoestima Relaciones y Trastornos Alimenticios (ART), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Susana Jiménez-Murcia
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Bellvitge University Hospital, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviours, Neuroscience Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona (UB), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Psychology Services, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Fernando Fernández-Aranda
- Department of Clinical Psychology, Bellvitge University Hospital, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- Psychoneurobiology of Eating and Addictive Behaviours, Neuroscience Program, Bellvitge Biomedical Research Institute (IDIBELL), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
- CIBER Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition (CIBERobn), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona (UB), L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain
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2
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Schneider E, O'Riordan KJ, Clarke G, Cryan JF. Feeding gut microbes to nourish the brain: unravelling the diet-microbiota-gut-brain axis. Nat Metab 2024; 6:1454-1478. [PMID: 39174768 DOI: 10.1038/s42255-024-01108-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
The prevalence of brain disorders, including stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders and conditions with cognitive dysfunction, is rising. Poor dietary habits contribute substantially to this accelerating trend. Conversely, healthy dietary intake supports mood and cognitive performance. Recently, the communication between the microorganisms within the gastrointestinal tract and the brain along the gut-brain axis has gained prominence as a potential tractable target to modulate brain health. The composition and function of the gut microbiota is robustly influenced by dietary factors to alter gut-brain signalling. To reflect this interconnection between diet, gut microbiota and brain functioning, we propose that a diet-microbiota-gut-brain axis exists that underpins health and well-being. In this Review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the interplay between diet and gut microbiota composition and function and the implications for cognition and emotional functioning. Important diet-induced effects on the gut microbiota for the development, prevention and maintenance of neuropsychiatric disorders are described. The diet-microbiota-gut-brain axis represents an uncharted frontier for brain health diagnostics and therapeutics across the lifespan.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gerard Clarke
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioural Science, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - John F Cryan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
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3
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West ML, Hart S, Loughman A, Jacka FN, Staudacher HM, Abbaspour A, Phillipou A, Ruusunen A, Rocks T. Challenges and priorities for researching the gut microbiota in individuals living with anorexia nervosa. Int J Eat Disord 2023; 56:2001-2011. [PMID: 37548294 DOI: 10.1002/eat.24033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The gut microbiota is implicated in several symptoms and biological pathways relevant to anorexia nervosa (AN). Investigations into the role of the gut microbiota in AN are growing, with a specific interest in the changes that occur in response to treatment. Findings suggest that microbial species may be associated with some of the symptoms common in AN, such as depression and gastrointestinal disturbances (GID). Therefore, researchers believe the gut microbiota may have therapeutic relevance. Whilst research in this field is rapidly expanding, the unique considerations relevant to conducting gut microbiota research in individuals with AN must be addressed. METHOD We provide an overview of the published literature investigating the relationship between the gut microbiota and symptoms and behaviors present in AN, discuss important challenges in gut microbiota research, and offer recommendations for addressing these. We conclude by summarizing research design priorities for the field to move forward. RESULTS Several ways exist to reduce participant burden and accommodate challenges when researching the gut microbiota in individuals with AN. DISCUSSION Recommendations from this article are foreseen to encourage scientific rigor and thoughtful protocol planning for microbiota research in AN, including ways to reduce participant burden. Employing such methods will contribute to a better understanding of the role of the gut microbiota in AN pathophysiology and treatment. PUBLIC SIGNIFICANCE The field of gut microbiota research is rapidly expanding, including the role of the gut microbiota in anorexia nervosa. Thoughtful planning of future research will ensure appropriate data collection for meaningful interpretation while providing a positive experience for the participant. We present current challenges, recommendations for research design and priorities to facilitate the advancement of research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline L West
- Deakin University, IMPACT - The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Susan Hart
- Eating and Nutrition Research Group, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Cambelltown, Australia
- Nutrition Services, St Vincent's Health Network, Darlinghurst, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute, Eating Disorders and Body Image, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Amy Loughman
- Deakin University, IMPACT - The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Felice N Jacka
- Deakin University, IMPACT - The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Black Dog Institute, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
- James Cook University, Townsville, Queensland, Australia
| | - Heidi M Staudacher
- Deakin University, IMPACT - The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
| | - Afrouz Abbaspour
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutetet, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Andrea Phillipou
- Orygen, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Youth Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Mental Health, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Mental Health, Austin Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Anu Ruusunen
- Deakin University, IMPACT - The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
- Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
- Department of Psychiatry, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Tetyana Rocks
- Deakin University, IMPACT - The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, Food & Mood Centre, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Geelong, Australia
- Translational Health Research Institute, Eating Disorders and Body Image, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Penrith, New South Wales, Australia
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4
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Garcia-Gil M, Ceccarini MR, Stoppini F, Cataldi S, Mazzeschi C, Delvecchio E, Albi E, Gizzi G. Brain and gut microbiota disorders in the psychopathology of anorexia nervosa. Transl Neurosci 2022; 13:516-526. [PMID: 36660007 PMCID: PMC9824428 DOI: 10.1515/tnsci-2022-0267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Studies of pathophysiological mechanisms involved in eating disorders (EDs) have intensified over the past several years, revealing their unprecedented and unanticipated complexity. Results from many articles highlight critical aspects in each member of ED family. Notably, anorexia nervosa (AN) is a disorder due to undefined etiology, frequently associated with symptoms of depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsiveness, accompanied by endocrine alterations, altered immune response, increased inflammation, and dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. Hence, an advanced knowledge of how and why a multisystem involvement exists is of paramount importance to understand the pathogenetic mechanisms of AN. In this review, we describe the change in the brain structure/function focusing on hypothalamic endocrine disorders and the disequilibrium of gut microbiota in AN that might be responsible for the psychopathological complication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Garcia-Gil
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56127, Pisa, Italy,Department of Biology, Interdepartmental Research Center Nutrafood “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56127 Pisa, Italy,Department of Biology, CISUP, Center for Instrument Sharing of the University of Pisa, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Fabrizio Stoppini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | - Samuela Cataldi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | - Claudia Mazzeschi
- Department of Philosophy, Social Sciences and Education, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | - Elisa Delvecchio
- Department of Philosophy, Social Sciences and Education, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Albi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy
| | - Giulia Gizzi
- Department of Philosophy, Social Sciences and Education, University of Perugia, 06126 Perugia, Italy
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5
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Terry SM, Barnett JA, Gibson DL. A critical analysis of eating disorders and the gut microbiome. J Eat Disord 2022; 10:154. [PMID: 36329546 PMCID: PMC9635068 DOI: 10.1186/s40337-022-00681-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The gut microbiota, also known as our "second brain" is an exciting frontier of research across a multitude of health domains. Gut microbes have been implicated in feeding behaviour and obesity, as well as mental health disorders including anxiety and depression, however their role in the development and maintenance of eating disorders (EDs) has only recently been considered. EDs are complex mental health conditions, shaped by a complicated interplay of factors. Perhaps due to an incomplete understanding of the etiology of EDs, treatment remains inadequate with affected individuals likely to face many relapses. The gut microbiota may be a missing piece in understanding the etiology of eating disorders, however more robust scientific inquiry is needed in the field before concrete conclusions can be made. In this spotlight paper, we critically evaluate what is known about the bi-directional relationship between gut microbes and biological processes that are implicated in the development and maintenance of EDs, including physiological functioning, hormones, neurotransmitters, the central nervous system, and the immune system. We outline limitations of current research, propose concrete steps to move the field forward and, hypothesize potential clinical implications of this research. Our gut is inhabited by millions of bacteria which have more recently been referred to as "our second brain". In fact, these microbes are thought to play a role in ED behaviour, associated anxiety and depression, and even affect our weight. Recent research has dove into this field with promising findings that have the potential to be applied clinically to improve ED recovery. The present paper discusses what is known about the gut microbiome in relation to EDs and the promising implications that leveraging this knowledge, through fecal microbiome transplants, probiotics, and microbiome-directed supplemental foods, could have on ED treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney M Terry
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC, Canada
| | - Jacqueline A Barnett
- Department of Biology, I.K. Barber Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada
| | - Deanna L Gibson
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC, Canada. .,Department of Biology, I.K. Barber Faculty of Science, University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada.
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6
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Kotlyarov S. Role of Short-Chain Fatty Acids Produced by Gut Microbiota in Innate Lung Immunity and Pathogenesis of the Heterogeneous Course of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:4768. [PMID: 35563159 PMCID: PMC9099629 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a widespread socially significant disease. The development of COPD involves the innate immune system. Interestingly, the regulation of the innate lung immune system is related to the gut microbiota. This connection is due to the production by gut microorganisms of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as acetate, propionate, and butyrate. Nutritional disturbances and changes in the structure of the intestinal microbiota lead to a decrease in SCFAs production and their effect on pulmonary immunity. The presence of a metabolic and immune axis linking the lungs and gut plays an important role in the pathogenesis of COPD. In addition, the nature of nutrition and SCFAs may participate in the development of the clinically heterogeneous course of COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislav Kotlyarov
- Department of Nursing, Ryazan State Medical University, 390026 Ryazan, Russia
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7
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Giel KE, Bulik CM, Fernandez-Aranda F, Hay P, Keski-Rahkonen A, Schag K, Schmidt U, Zipfel S. Binge eating disorder. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2022; 8:16. [PMID: 35301358 PMCID: PMC9793802 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-022-00344-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Binge eating disorder (BED) is characterized by regular binge eating episodes during which individuals ingest comparably large amounts of food and experience loss of control over their eating behaviour. The worldwide prevalence of BED for the years 2018-2020 is estimated to be 0.6-1.8% in adult women and 0.3-0.7% in adult men. BED is commonly associated with obesity and with somatic and mental health comorbidities. People with BED experience considerable burden and impairments in quality of life, and, at the same time, BED often goes undetected and untreated. The aetiology of BED is complex, including genetic and environmental factors as well as neuroendocrinological and neurobiological contributions. Neurobiological findings highlight impairments in reward processing, inhibitory control and emotion regulation in people with BED, and these neurobiological domains are targets for emerging treatment approaches. Psychotherapy is the first-line treatment for BED. Recognition and research on BED has increased since its inclusion into DSM-5; however, continuing efforts are needed to understand underlying mechanisms of BED and to improve prevention and treatment outcomes for this disorder. These efforts should also include screening, identification and implementation of evidence-based interventions in routine clinical practice settings such as primary care and mental health outpatient clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin E Giel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany.
- Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders (KOMET), Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Cynthia M Bulik
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Nutrition, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Fernando Fernandez-Aranda
- Department of Psychiatry, Bellvitge University Hospital-IDIBELL, Barcelona, Spain
- Ciber Fisiopatología Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBERObn), Instituto Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Phillipa Hay
- Translational Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Camden and Campbelltown Hospitals, SWSLHD, Campbelltown, NSW, Australia
| | | | - Kathrin Schag
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders (KOMET), Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Schmidt
- Section of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychological Medicine, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
- South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Stephan Zipfel
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Medical University Hospital Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
- Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders (KOMET), Tübingen, Germany
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8
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Kotlyarov S, Kotlyarova A. Anti-Inflammatory Function of Fatty Acids and Involvement of Their Metabolites in the Resolution of Inflammation in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222312803. [PMID: 34884621 PMCID: PMC8657960 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222312803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipid metabolism plays an important role in many lung functions. Disorders of lipid metabolism are part of the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Lipids are involved in numerous cross-linkages with inflammation. Recent studies strongly support the involvement of fatty acids as participants in inflammation. They are involved in the initiation and resolution of inflammation, including acting as a substrate for the formation of lipid mediators of inflammation resolution. Specialized pro-inflammatory mediators (SPMs) belonging to the classes of lipoxins, resolvins, maresins, and protectins, which are formed enzymatically from unsaturated fatty acids, are now described. Disorders of their production and function are part of the pathogenesis of COPD. SPMs are currently the subject of active research in order to find new drugs. Short-chain fatty acids are another important participant in metabolic and immune processes, and their role in the pathogenesis of COPD is of great clinical interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanislav Kotlyarov
- Department of Nursing, Ryazan State Medical University, 390026 Ryazan, Russia
- Correspondence:
| | - Anna Kotlyarova
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacy, Ryazan State Medical University, 390026 Ryazan, Russia;
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9
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Zhang J, Dulawa SC. The Utility of Animal Models for Studying the Metabo-Psychiatric Origins of Anorexia Nervosa. Front Psychiatry 2021; 12:711181. [PMID: 34721100 PMCID: PMC8551379 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2021.711181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a severe eating disorder that primarily affects young women and girls, and is characterized by abnormal restrictive feeding and a dangerously low body-mass index. AN has one of the highest mortality rates of any psychiatric disorder, and no approved pharmacological treatments exist. Current psychological and behavioral treatments are largely ineffective, and relapse is common. Relatively little basic research has examined biological mechanisms that underlie AN compared to other major neuropsychiatric disorders. A recent large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) revealed that the genetic architecture of AN has strong metabolic as well as psychiatric origins, suggesting that AN should be reconceptualized as a metabo-psychiatric disorder. Therefore, identifying the metabo-psychiatric mechanisms that contribute to AN may be essential for developing effective treatments. This review focuses on animal models for studying the metabo-psychiatric mechanisms that may contribute to AN, with a focus on the activity-based anorexia (ABA) paradigm. We also highlight recent work using modern circuit-dissecting neuroscience techniques to uncover metabolic mechanisms that regulate ABA, and encourage further work to ultimately identify novel treatment strategies for AN.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Stephanie C Dulawa
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
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