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Intriguing links between animal behavior and anorexia nervosa
1Eating Disorders Research Group, Institute of Psychiatry, London.
The International Journal of Eating Disorders
|May 1, 1997
Summary
This review explores animal models for anorexia nervosa, highlighting thin sow syndrome in pigs as a potential model. Genetic factors influencing body composition in animals may offer insights into anorexia nervosa.
Area of Science:
- Comparative Medicine
- Animal Models of Human Disease
- Genetics
Background:
- Anorexia nervosa is a complex eating disorder with limited understanding of its underlying biological mechanisms.
- Animal models are crucial for investigating the pathophysiology and potential treatments of human diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing literature on potential animal models for anorexia nervosa.
- To identify animal conditions that share similarities with human anorexia nervosa.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of MedLine, PSYCHLIT, and CAB Abstracts.
- Inclusion of keywords such as "body composition," "thin sow syndrome," and "halothane gene."
- Consultation with experts in animal husbandry and body composition.
Main Results:
- Thin sow syndrome in pigs exhibits characteristics analogous to anorexia nervosa.
- Leanness and stress susceptibility in pigs are linked to ryanodine gene mutations.
- Animal body composition is highly heritable, with specific gene loci influencing its components.
Conclusions:
- Animal body composition research provides valuable insights into anorexia nervosa.
- Several candidate genes warrant further investigation for their potential role in anorexia nervosa.