Eating disorders linked to genetic mutation

Eating disorder sufferers could have a genetic mutation which makes them more susceptible to the condition, scientists have found.

Two gene mutations have been identified that are associated with an increased risk of developing conditions such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia.

By studying the genetics of two families severely affected by eating disorders, scientists from the University of Iowa and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centre identified mutations in two genes which interact in the same signalling pathway in the brain.