The Neurobiology of Anorexia Nervosa

Abstract

This article will provide an overview of research findings on the neurobiology of anorexia nervosa (AN), including studies of neurotransmitter function, genetics, brain imaging, and neuropsychology. Such studies are aimed at elucidating the underlying neuroanatomical and pathophysiological bases of AN. Despite widely held beliefs, there is no convincing evidence that cultural factors alone cause AN. Indeed, over the past few years research into the role of the brain in eating disorders has been very fruitful. This is despite the clear realization that many earlier identified abnormalities have been found to be directly due to the effects of semi-starvation and/or the extreme eating practices of AN. Sorting out what is trait- and what is state-related has been a challenging focus of neurobiological research in AN.