Neuroimaging study reveals those with anorexia have noticeable reductions in cortical thickness, subcortical volume, and cortical surface area. The reductions are between 2 to 4 times larger than abnormalities in brain size and shape in those with other mental illnesses.
The brains of those with anorexia have sizable reductions in three critical measures, including cortical thickness, subcortical volume, and cortical surface area.
Hyperactivity in a serotonin-dopamine circuit in the brain appears to be responsible for persistent anorexia in animal models. The DRD1 receptor appears to drive the hyperactivity. Deleting the DRD1 gene restored normal eating behaviors in animals.
Researchers identified a genetic correlation between blood biomarkers and a range of mental health disorders. The study provides evidence some substance measures within the blood may be involved in the cause of mental illnesses. For example, immune system proteins may be involved in the development of depression, schizophrenia, and anorexia.
From treating depression and other mental health disorders, to helping relieve chronic pain, researchers discuss the advantages and implications of psychedelic treatments.
Eating disorder behaviors are reinforced due to changes in the brain's reward response processes and alterations in the food intake control network.
Activity in the dorsal mid insular could drive different interpretations in bodily sensations in those with mental health disorders like depression, anorexia, and panic disorders.
Contrary to popular belief, people with eating disorders like bulimia nervosa do not lose control and binge eat in response to stressful events.
Promoting and maintaining a better gut microbial balance may help to protect against symptoms of anorexia in those with the eating disorder.
Study reveals how eating disorders in some women are inextricably linked to their culture and upbringing.
Those with body dysmorphic disorder and anorexia have abnormalities in activity and connectivity in visual and parietal brain networks. People with anorexia and body dysmorphia process images with high, low, or normal levels of detail. The abnormalities for low level of detail have the most direct relationship with disorder symptom severity and body perception.
Hunger fails to activate food reward circuits in people with anorexia.