Persistent alterations of serotonin and dopamine activity after recovery from anorexia and bulimia nervosa

Several lines of evidence suggest disturbances of serotonin (5-HT) and dopamine (DA) pathways play a role in the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN). Studies from several centers, using imaging with radioligands specific for 5HT and DA components, have found alterations of the 5HT1A and 5HT2A receptors, and DA D2/D3 receptors in AN and BN. In addition, some studies suggest relationships between these components and traits often found in individuals with AN and BN, such as harm avoidance and body image distortion. The 5HT and DA systems are highly complex. Thus, disturbances of these components may reflect dysregulation of these neuronal systems, rather than identify the exact etiology. In addition, these imaging technologies tend to be a one-time, static measure. Still, they inform about the activity of 5HT and DA in brain regions, and thus aid in the identification of circuits contributing to AN and BN. In summary, these new technologies offer the promise of understanding the relationship of behavior and neurocircuits contributing to ED.