Animal Models for Anorexia Nervosa-A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience and behavioral science
• Endocrinology
• Genetics

Background:

• Anorexia nervosa (AN) pathogenesis remains poorly understood, necessitating robust animal models for research.
• Animal models are crucial for investigating the underlying mechanisms and potential treatments for AN.
• Existing research highlights the need for a systematic overview of current animal models.

Approach:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed-Medline, Embase, and Web of Science databases.
• 108 original research papers were included, focusing on studies utilizing animal models of anorexia nervosa.
• The review analyzed parameters such as body weight, food intake, physical activity, and hormonal alterations.

Key Points:

• 106 studies used rodents, and 2 used monkeys, employing 18 different animal models.
• The activity-based anorexia model was most common (75 studies), involving food restriction and exercise.
• Genetic models, like the 'anx/anx' mice, offer valuable insights into AN mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• Animal models have significantly advanced the understanding of hunger, satiety, physical activity, and cognition in an underweight state.
• These models provide critical data for exploring the pathophysiology of anorexia nervosa.
• Further research using these models may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for anorexia nervosa.