World's Largest Anorexia Nervosa Study Calls for Volunteers

The Anorexia Nervosa Genetics Initiative (ANGI) aims to identify the genes that play a role in causing the serious and potentially life-threatening illness, affecting an estimated 53,000 Australians.1,2
According to lead Australian study investigator, Head of the Genetic Epidemiology group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Professor Nicholas Martin, PhD: “New research reveals people living with anorexia nervosa have four-times more direct relatives with anorexia nervosa than those who have never had the illness.3 In particular, life-time anorexia nervosa is six times more common in mothers, four times more common in siblings and five times more common in the offspring of people living with the illness.3
“Results of this research underscore the critical importance of identifying genes that lead to the pattern that we have seen in families,” Prof Martin said.
“For decades studies have shown a strong genetic link to the illness. However, we’ve been unable to pinpoint particular genes or determine where the genetic link lies, to date,” said visiting ANGI lead investigator, Distinguished Professor of Eating Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, USA, Dr Cynthia Bulik.  “As such, we urge any Australian who is living with, or has lived with anorexia nervosa, to join our very important scientific journey of discovery,” Dr Bulik said.
“Participating in ANGI is easy and free. Volunteers simply complete a 10-minute online, confidential survey and roll up their sleeves to provide a very small blood sample. “It costs nothing apart from a little time, but could make a genuine contribution to solving this devastating illness,” said Dr Bulik.
Volunteers can be male or female of any age (children require parental consent) who:
? Currently have anorexia nervosa; or
? Have had anorexia nervosa at some stage in their lives.
To learn more, or to register for the study:
? Visit angi.qimr.edu.au
? Email angi@qimrberghofer.edu.au
? Freecall ANGI on 1800 257 179.
ANGI researchers will analyse DNA samples through a process known as ‘genome-wide association’, comparing the DNA of people who have never had an eating disorder to those who currently have, or have had, anorexia nervosa. Comparative analysis not only serves to identify and discover genes that predispose people to eating disorders, but to also pinpoint genes responsible for depression, anxiety, alcoholism and other common mental health illnesses.4
ANGI is being conducted in four centres worldwide including a combined Australia and New Zealand site, Denmark, Sweden and the US. Australia plans to contribute more than a quarter of the total 13,000 DNA samples required for the initiative.
Dr Sarah Maguire, Director, Centre for Eating and Dieting Disorders, Sydney, says encouraging people who have, or have had, anorexia nervosa to participate in the initiative will help transform current knowledge of anorexia nervosa causes.
“ANGI will enable us to work towards a greater understanding of, and ultimately a cure for, the illness.
“We know the causes of anorexia nervosa are varied and complex5 and include a combination of environmental, social and cultural factors.6 However, genetic predisposition is a known cause and should be a key area of focus,” said Dr Maguire.
For more information, or to register for ANGI, visit angi.qimr.edu.au.