Patient-derived Stem Cell Models of Anorexia Nervosa

Experimental and genetic data, as well as brain imaging, support a role of the hypothalamic Arcuate nucleus neurons and their communication with surrounding microglia in anorectic conditions, but it has until recently not been possible to explore these cells at a molecular level in anorexia nervosa (AN) patients. This attributed to the obvious lack of valid tissue and non-invasive imaging techniques of high enough resolution. Stem cell models have evolved as a useful tool for the exploration of other neuropsychiatric disorders with a comparably high genetic contribution as AN. The investigators will here use patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to profile Arc neurons and peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) derived microglia in AN, thus defining molecules to explore as drug targets.

Inclusion Criteria anorexia nervosa: * female * 18-45 years of age * AN restrictive diagnosis as main diagnosis * more than 5 years duration Exclusion Criteria anorexia nervosa: \- Inclusion Criteria healthy control: * female * 18-45 years of age * BMI 18,5 - 25 Exclusion Criteria healthy control: * own or family member with eating disorder diagnosis * own or family member with autism diagnosis