Animal model of eating disorders
Inoue, K.; Iwasaki, S.; Muramatsu, T.; Yamauchi, T.; Kiriike, N.
Nihon Shinkei Seishin Yakurigaku Zasshi 26(2): 89-92
2006
ISSN/ISBN: 1340-2544 PMID: 16722466 Document Number: 602205
Patients with eating disorders are increasing in number. Some neurocircuits concerned with feeding behavior might be dysfunctional in these patients with repeated expression of disorganized eating behavior like long-lasting dieting. These neuronal, or endocrinological dysfunctions might even be enhanced by psychological stress. To understand the biological bases of eating disorders is necessary to establish effective treatment. According to the clinical features of the patients, we have conducted some rat studies. We have found that space restriction stress enhances rebound hyperphagia induced by time-restricted scheduled feeding, and propose the phenomenon as a possible rat model of binge eating. We can speculate some part of the biological bases of human eating disorders, and effective prevention and treatment through such animal models.