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Update on ANGI Study
Scientists and researchers have long understood the genetic implications involved in anorexia nervosa, furthering the understanding of this psychiatric illness as a biologically influenced disorder. Anorexia nervosa continues to be the most deadly of all psychiatric illnesses, with an estimated mortality rate at around 10 percent [1].
Countless individuals who are struggling with this potentially fatal disease continue to face obstacles connecting with necessary treatments for recovery, including lack of insurance coverage. Advancements in the field of eating disorder research are not only expanding understanding about this illness, but also establishing treatment methods that could be more effective in addressing anorexia nervosa.
The Anorexia Nervosa Genetics Initiative (ANGI) Study
In June of 2013, researchers from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, set out to complete the largest and most rigorous genetic investigation of eating disorders ever conducted.
Led by Cynthia Bulik, Ph.D., FAED, Founding Director of the UNC Center of Excellence for Eating Disorders, researchers came together from the United States, Australia, Sweden, and Denmark to collect clinical information from over 13,000 combined individuals with anorexia nervosa and those without an eating disorder [2]. Blood samples were collected from all participants in effort to detect genetic variations that contribute to anorexia.
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AIn this landmark study, researchers were able to complete a genome-wide analysis of DNA from 3,495 individuals diagnosed with anorexia nervosa and 10,982 unaffected individuals [3].
According to the National Human Genome Research Institute, researchers sought to examine and identify genetic variations in individuals with anorexia compared to those who were unaffected, in order to determine any regions of the human genome related to the disorder. Discovering this information has been important in working toward a greater understanding of anorexia, as well as toward a cure for treatment efforts.
Finding the Genetic Link to Eating Disorders
Almost four years later, the global effort of the ANGI study has resulted in powerful findings about anorexia, including understanding about particular genetic variations. Scientists revealed the discovery of a genome-wide significant locus for anorexia nervosa after completing the DNA analysis on over 13,000 participants.
In regards to these finds, Dr. Bulik shared, “We identified one genome-wide significant locus for anorexia nervosa on chromosome 12, in a region previously shown to be associated with type 1 diabetes and autoimmune disorders.”
Dr. Bulik also noted, “Anorexia nervosa was significantly genetically correlated with neuroticism and schizophrenia, supporting the idea that anorexia is indeed a psychiatric illness [3].”
These findings do indeed validate what scientists have hypothesized about the influencing factors associated with the development of anorexia, though in the ANGI study, researchers were able to identify a specific genome-wide locus for this eating disorder. Researchers also unexpectedly discovered potential metabolic underpinnings related to anorexia, highlighting not only psychiatric influences associated with this eating disorder, but metabolic factors as well.
Dr. Bulik explained the correlation between certain metabolic features and genetics, highlighting, “This finding encourages us to look more deeply at how metabolic factors increase the risk for anorexia nervosa.” This research study and findings were recently published in The American Journal of Psychiatry.
Implications for the Eating Disorder Community
As countless individuals continue to struggle with this disease, there remains hope for recovery and treatment. The research completed by Dr. Bulik and her outstanding team of researchers and scientists, along with the others working tirelessly in the field of eating disorder research, is contributing invaluable information and resources that are making all the difference for sufferers, their loved ones, and family members.
Studies such as the ANGI study have broadened awareness and understanding about an illness that continues to be stigmatize on levels that hurt the sufferer and often serve as obstacles to treatment. The ANGI study may very well be the beginning of further research of the disease as both a psychiatric and metabolic condition, which could ultimately lead to the refinement of current treatment options.
If you wanting to get involved or support the important work that is being accomplished by these amazing researchers, consider becoming involved in a clinical trial, if appropriate.
Many research trials for eating disorders require participants with eating disorders, as well as those that have been unaffected. You may also consider sharing information about various research studies in the eating disorder field in order to spread greater awareness and support the work that is being accomplished on behalf of those who are suffering.
About the Author: Crystal Karges, MS, RDN, IBCLC is a Contributing Writer for Eating Disorder Hope.
Crystal is a Masters-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a specialty focus in eating disorders, maternal/child health and wellness, and intuitive eating. Combining clinical experience with a love of social media and writing,
As a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, Crystal has dedicated her career to helping others establish a healthy relationship with food and body through her work with EDH and nutrition private practice.
References:
[1]: Arcelus J, et al. Mortality rates in patients with anorexia nervosa and other eating disorders. Archives of General Psychiatry, 68(7):724-731.[2]: ClinicalTrials.Gov, “Anorexia Nervosa Genetics initiative (ANGI)”, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01916538 Accessed 19 May 2017
[3]: “For anorexia nervosa, researchers implicate genetic locus on chromosome 12”, https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2017-05/uonc-fan051017.php Accessed 19 May 2017
The opinions and views of our guest contributors are shared to provide a broad perspective of eating disorders. These are not necessarily the views of Eating Disorder Hope, but an effort to offer discussion of various issues by different concerned individuals.
We at Eating Disorder Hope understand that eating disorders result from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. If you or a loved one are suffering from an eating disorder, please know that there is hope for you, and seek immediate professional help.
Published on July 2, 2017.
Reviewed By: Jacquelyn Ekern, MS, LPC on July 2, 2017.
Published on EatingDisorderHope.com
Baxter Ekern is the President of Eating Disorder Hope. He is responsible for the management and operations of Eating Disorder Hope. Baxter has been lending his services to Eating Disorder Hope for several years but came on board as the full-time president in November 2016.
