Anorexia nervosa appears to have both psychiatric and metabolic aspects, suggests a study in Nature Genetics. Analyzing genetic data from 16,992 individuals with anorexia nervosa and 55,525 control individuals from 17 countries, investigators identified eight gene variants associated with anorexia nervosa. These variants overlapped with those of other psychiatric disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, major depressive disorder and schizophrenia, as well as with metabolic characteristics, including how sugars and fats are processed, and with level of physical activity. The investigators suggest that researchers should consider metabolic as well as psychiatric aspects in developing new treatments for anorexia nervosa. (Monitor on Psychology)

Susie Bean Gives