- The Physiology and Role of Appetite-regulating and Stress Hormones in the Etiology of Anorexia Nervosa
What is the purpose of this study?
Our goal is to learn more about the role of genetics in anorexia nervosa (AN), an eating disorder. Studies have shown that women whose close relatives have AN are more likely to develop the disorder themselves. This suggests that a person’s genetic code influences their risk of developing AN. The specific genes involved have not yet been identified.
AN is associated with abnormalities of hormones involved in regulation of hunger and fullness, as well as response to stress. We are investigating whether the genetic code for hormones involved in these pathways are different in females who develop AN compared to healthy females.
Who is eligible?
All participants must be female and over the age of 10.
You do not need to have anorexia to participate in this study. We are currently recruiting:
- healthy female volunteers who have never had an eating disorder
- girls and women who had anorexia in the past
- girls and women who currently have anorexia
What does the study involve?
Participants in the study come to Massachusetts General Hospital or an affiliated site for one study visit which lasts 90 minutes. The study involves a blood draw, questionnaires and a saliva collection.
This study can also be completed off-site, at a doctor’s office or a treatment center. When completed off-site, the visit will take approximately 30 minutes and include a saliva collection for DNA and questionnaires.
Is there any compensation for participating?
Participation in the study is at no cost. Volunteers may receive up to $25 compensation. We will reimburse you for any parking, travel and transportation costs.
I want to learn more about the study, who do I contact?
McKale Santin
Study Coordinator
Phone 617 643 2609
E-mail: msantin@partners.org
Our goal is to learn more about the role of genetics in anorexia nervosa (AN), an eating disorder. Studies have shown that women whose close relatives have AN are more likely to develop the disorder themselves. This suggests that a person’s genetic code influences their risk of developing AN. The specific genes involved have not yet been identified.
AN is associated with abnormalities of hormones involved in regulation of hunger and fullness, as well as response to stress. We are investigating whether the genetic code for hormones involved in these pathways are different in females who develop AN compared to healthy females.
Who is eligible?
All participants must be female and over the age of 10.
You do not need to have anorexia to participate in this study. We are currently recruiting:
- healthy female volunteers who have never had an eating disorder
- girls and women who had anorexia in the past
- girls and women who currently have anorexia
What does the study involve?
Participants in the study come to Massachusetts General Hospital or an affiliated site for one study visit which lasts 90 minutes. The study involves a blood draw, questionnaires and a saliva collection.
This study can also be completed off-site, at a doctor’s office or a treatment center. When completed off-site, the visit will take approximately 30 minutes and include a saliva collection for DNA and questionnaires.
Is there any compensation for participating?
Participation in the study is at no cost. Volunteers may receive up to $25 compensation. We will reimburse you for any parking, travel and transportation costs.
I want to learn more about the study, who do I contact?
McKale Santin
Study Coordinator
Phone 617 643 2609
E-mail: msantin@partners.org
Institution – MGH - Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
Principal Investigator – Elizabeth A Lawson, MD
Enrollment Information
For further information about enrolling a patient in this trial, contact the person below.
Name – McKale E Santin, CRC
Email – msantin@partners.org
Phone – 617 643 2609
