Abstract
Anorexia nervosa (AN) causes the highest number of deaths among all psychiatric disorders. Reduction in food intake and hyperactivity/increased anxiety observed in AN are also the core features of the activity-based anorexia animal model (ABA). Our aim was to assess how the acute ABA protocol mimics common AN complications, including gonadal and cardiovascular dysfunctions, depending on gender, age, and initial body weight, to form a comprehensive description of ABA as a reliable research tool. Wheel running, body weight, and food intake of adolescent female and male rats were monitored. Electrocardiography, heart rate variability, systolic blood pressure, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurements were performed. Immediately after euthanasia, tissue fragments and blood were collected for further analysis. Uterine weight was 2 times lower in ABA female rats, and ovarian tissue exhibited a reduced number of antral follicles and decreased expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors. Cardiovascular measurements revealed autonomic decompensation with prolongation of QRS complex and QT interval. The ABA model is a reliable research tool for presenting the breakdown of adaptation mechanisms observed in severe AN. Cardiac and hormonal features of ABA with underlying altered neuroendocrine pathways create a valid phenotype of a human disease.
Highlights
IntroductionThe concept of an activity-based anorexia (ABA) model ( referred to as exerciseinduced anorexia or food restriction-induced hyperactivity) goes back to 1967, when
The activity-based anorexia model induced the most substantial weight loss compared with the Wh and restricted feeding (RF) groups
Even a general superficial look at the activity-based anorexia model reveals a fascinating phenomenon when animals voluntarily make a self-destructive choice between food consumption and physical activity
Summary
The concept of an activity-based anorexia (ABA) model ( referred to as exerciseinduced anorexia or food restriction-induced hyperactivity) goes back to 1967, when. A reduction of food intake/loss of appetite and hyperactivity/increasing anxiety as observed in human anorexia nervosa (AN) are the core features of the ABA model. Numerous biological complications directly attributable to weight loss and malnutrition can be observed in AN patients. These complications affect almost every organ system and account for approximately half of all deaths in anorexia nervosa [2], with cardiac complications being the most common cause of death [3,4]. No medications are approved to treat anorexia nervosa, and restoration to a healthy weight (or BMI), as the primary therapeutic goal, is generally pursued through psychotherapy and nutrition rehabilitation [6]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
