A dynamic research team from McGill University, in collaboration with French scientists, has made a groundbreaking discovery that could change the lives of millions suffering from anorexia nervosa. Published in Nature Communications, this study uncovers the neurological roots of the disorder and proposes a promising treatment.
The Discovery
The team identified that a lack of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter in the brain’s striatum (a region linked to reward processing), may trigger the compulsive behaviors seen in anorexia. This discovery led them to test donepezil, a drug known to boost acetylcholine levels, on mice. Remarkably, the drug reversed anorexia-like behaviors in the animals.
Promising Results
Dr. Salah El Mestikawy, the lead author, revealed that donepezil could potentially offer the first mechanism-based treatment for anorexia nervosa. Ongoing studies in Toronto and Montreal, led by Dr. Leora Pinhas, are already showing promising results. Out of 10 severe anorexia patients treated with low doses of donepezil, three are in full remission, and seven have shown significant improvement.
Next Steps
To confirm these findings, double-blind clinical trials are set to commence this year at Columbia University, Denver University, and Hôpital Sainte-Anne in Paris. However, Dr. El Mestikawy warns that it could take years before the treatment becomes widely available due to the lengthy process of clinical trials and regulatory approval.
Beyond Anorexia
Donepezil, despite its side effects, holds potential beyond anorexia. The researchers are collaborating with French scientists to develop a safer compound. They believe donepezil could also help treat other compulsive disorders like OCD and addictions, paving the way for future research collaborations globally.
In summary, this groundbreaking research not only offers new hope for treating anorexia nervosa but also opens the door to potential treatments for other compulsive disorders.
For more details, you can read the full article on Nature Communications.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-07-team-neurological-mechanism-underlying-common.html
