Scientists scan brains to uncover why eating disorders drive avoidance
NCT ID NCT06566612
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study uses brain scans (fMRI) and computer tasks to understand how women with anorexia or bulimia nervosa learn to avoid certain situations. Researchers will compare brain activity in 78 women—26 with anorexia, 26 with bulimia, and 26 healthy controls—to see if avoidance learning differs. The goal is to uncover brain patterns linked to these eating disorders, which could guide future treatments.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
What this could lead to
If successful, this study could reveal how the brain processes avoidance in eating disorders, pointing toward new psychological or brain-based treatments.
What could go wrong
This is an observational brain-imaging study, not a treatment trial. It is small (78 participants) and early-stage, so findings may not apply broadly or lead directly to therapies.
Disclaimer
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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UCSD Eating Disorders Treatment and Research Program
RECRUITINGLa Jolla, California, 92121, United States
Contact
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••