Obituary for Bart Hoebel

Abstract

Presents an obituary of Bart Hoebel (1935-2011). His central interest was in brain mechanisms that control appetite and body weight and understanding central nervous system mechanisms dealing with motivation, reward, and aversion. This led to a broad array of research projects, resulting in significant findings regarding obesity and eating disorders, addiction, and depression. Hoebel's interest in reward mechanisms led to many lines of inquiry, resulting in significant findings in the areas of eating disorders, obesity, addiction, alcohol consumption, and depression. He pioneered research into the dopamine and opioid brain mechanisms involved in mediating the rewards of consummatory behavior. He believed strongly in the idea that food is addictive and helped create a new field of research which will increase our understanding of the current rise in dietary obesity and binge eating disorders. Hoebel had strong impact on his students and influenced fellow researchers. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)