Animal models of eating disorders

Abstract

Eating disorders (EDs) include a range of chronic and disabling pathologies characterized by persistent maladaptive eating habits and/or behaviors aimed at controlling body shape and size, with important consequences on physical health. Different animal models of EDs have been developed to investigate pharmacological, environmental, and genetic determinants that contribute to the development and maintenance of these disorders as well as for the identification of potential therapeutic targets. In this chapter, we will provide an overview of the most useful animal models of EDs, focusing mainly on those used to study anorexia nervosa and binge eating disorder.