Anorexia And Genetics
Are There Genetic Factors In Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia and genetics have been linked since researchers discovered a susceptibility gene on chromosome 1 that contributes to eating disorders like anorexia. Genetics, and the function of serotonin levels are thought to play a significant role in the development of anorexia.

Research was conducted over a ten year period, and included the participation of Dr. Craig Johnson from the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). He says (of anorexia) -- "genetics load the gun and environment pulls the trigger".

What does that mean? Eating disorder specialists have come to realize that some people are prone, or have a predisposition, to developing anorexia.

But, just because someone is "prone" to an eating disorder doesn't mean that they will definitely get one.

Still, you can't help but notice that studies have shown that when you combine a genetic vulnerability with environmental factors, such as neglect, growing up in an abusive home, pressure from society to be thin, perfectionism or any number of things, you have a potential recipe for disaster.

Anorexia And Genetics - Chromosome 1

During the ongoing studies into anorexia and genetics, researchers used genetic linkage analysis to compare DNS samples from two or more family members who had a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, restricting type. (See the definition of anorexia for the two types of anorexia).

Strong evidence of a susceptibility gene was found on chromosome 1. This is the largest human chromosome, and it's estimated to have more than 4,000 genes. There are approximately 900 diseases related to this chromosome, including Alzheimer disease, breast cancer, and now anorexia.

Personality traits have also been studied to identify their contribution to the development of anorexia nervosa. Perfectionism, drive-for-thinness, and obsessiveness/compulsivity all have a relationship to chromosome 1.

The Function Of Serotonin In Anorexia And Genetics

In simple terms, the function of serotonin is to send messages from one nerve cell to another all throughout the brain and body. It also helps us to control emotions. Extreme variations in serotonin levels can even impair our judgment and perception.

Serotonin also affects how we respond to feelings and situations such as anxiety, anger, depression, hunger and sleep. People who are extremely depressed are known to have a serotonin deficiency. People with high anxiety usually have high levels of serotonin.

In cases of severe calorie restriction, anorexics typically feel a sense of calm or control. This can be due to the fact that their "food phobia" creates anxiety, and therefore raises serotonin levels. The act of self-starvation then lowers these levels, which triggers the calming feelings in the brain. It's a vicious circle.

Researchers at Maudsley Hospital in London England discovered that variations in the serotonin gene receptors are twice as likely to occur in people with anorexia. It is responsible, in part, for regulating our appetite.

There are definitely some strong links between anorexia and genetics, but it does not mean that there is a cure, or even a definite cause of eating disorders. However, it does point clinicians in the right direction, and proves that further studies are warranted.

Read about other possible anorexia causes.

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