Brain Processes Involved in Control and Decision-Making in Women with Bulimia Nervosa Using MRI Scans Effects of Fasting and Eating on Brain Function and Symptoms in Bulimia Nervosa

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how brain functions related to control and decision-making might be affected by eating in women with bulimia nervosa BN. The study aims to understand if abnormal predictions and value-based decisions about control contribute to ongoing binge eating, purging, and restriction behaviors. This research uses brain imaging and computational methods to explore how eating influences these control processes in BN. Participants undergo two brain scan sessions using functional magnetic resonance imaging fMRI. One session occurs after fasting for 16 hours, and the other after consuming a standardized meal. Participants are randomly assigned to the order they receive these sessions. The study also uses computational modeling and real-time mobile assessments to analyze brain activity and behavior related to cognitive control and effort valuation. During the study, researchers measure brain activation linked to prediction errors and the subjective value of cognitive effort shortly after fasting and after eating. Behavioral responses on control tasks and symptom severity related to binge eating, purging, and dietary restriction are assessed at baseline and six months later. The study includes safety monitoring and aims to better understand brain mechanisms in BN through these detailed evaluations over time.

Changes in Inhibition and Valuation After Eating