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Review
. 2016 Nov;29(6):383-8.
doi: 10.1097/YCO.0000000000000275.

Genetic epidemiology of eating disorders

Cynthia M Bulik  1 , Susan C Kleiman, Zeynep Yilmaz
Affiliations
Review

Genetic epidemiology of eating disorders

Cynthia M Bulik et al. Curr Opin Psychiatry. 2016 Nov.

Abstract

Purpose of review: We capture recent findings in the field of genetic epidemiology of eating disorders. As analytic techniques evolve for twin, population, and molecular genetic studies, new findings emerge at an accelerated pace. We present the current status of knowledge regarding the role of genetic and environmental factors that influence risk for eating disorders.

Recent findings: We focus on novel findings from twin studies, population studies using genetically informative designs, and molecular genetic studies. Over the past 2 years, research in this area has yielded insights into: comorbidity with other psychiatric and medical disorders and with metabolic traits; developmental factors associated with the emergence of eating disorders; and the molecular genetics of anorexia nervosa.

Summary: Insights from genetic epidemiology provide an important explanatory model for patients with eating disorders, family members, and clinicians. Understanding core biological determinants that explain the severity and persistence of the illnesses, their frequent co-occurrence with other conditions, and their familial patterns raises awareness and increases compassion for individuals living with these disorders. Large-scale genomic studies are currently underway. Ultimately, this domain of research may pave the way to greater understanding of the underlying neurobiology and inform the development of novel and effective interventions.

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References

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    1. Peterson CM, Baker JH, Thornton LM, Trace SE, Mazzeo SE, Neale MC, et al. Genetic and environmental components to self-induced vomiting. Int J Eat Disord. 2016;49:421–7. Swedish twin study suggesting that genetic and individual-specific environmental factors influence liability to the initiation of self-induced vomiting. Individual-specific environmental factors account for the progression to regular self-induced vomiting, highlighting the significance of environmental factors in the establishment of regular vomiting and the non-deterministic nature of genetic factors.

MeSH terms