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Exploring the Genetic Overlap Between Metabolic Traits and Anorexia Nervosa
Danielle M Adams1,2, Murray J Cairns1,2
1Centre for Complex Disease and Precision Medicine, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.
Biological Psychiatry Global Open Science
|February 12, 2026
Summary
This study explored the genetic links between anorexia nervosa (AN) and metabolic traits. Researchers found shared genetic regions, suggesting a biological connection influencing both AN and metabolic health.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Metabolic Health
- Eating Disorders
Background:
- Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a complex eating disorder with poorly understood biology.
- Genome-wide association studies suggest genetic links between metabolic traits and AN pathophysiology.
- Dysregulated metabolic traits are observed in AN and may persist after weight restoration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the shared genetic architecture between AN and six metabolic traits (BMI, HDL, leptin, insulin, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes).
- To identify specific genomic regions and genes contributing to the genetic correlation between AN and metabolic traits.
Main Methods:
- Utilized spatially localized genetic correlation and Bayesian colocalization analyses.
- Examined AN (n=72,517) against six metabolic traits (n=30,931-659,316).
Main Results:
- Identified 60 genomic regions with significant genetic correlation between AN liability and metabolic traits.
- Found three regions with strong evidence of colocalization, suggesting shared variants influencing high-density lipoprotein and body mass index.
Conclusions:
- Discovered independent genomic regions contributing to the overall genetic correlation between AN and metabolic traits.
- Identified specific shared genes that may elucidate the biological link between AN and metabolic factors.
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