ABSTRACT
Objectives of review. The aim of this paper is to review the major genetic studies of eating disorders (EDs) conducted within the last two years.
Summary of recent findings. Twin studies have highlighted the importance of both genetic and environmental factors in ED etiology. In addition, these studies have indicated that some specific ED-related attitudes are significantly associated with environmental factors. These findings have important implications for prevention. In addition, linkage and association studies have further specified several important candidate genes and their relevance to ED behavior and attitudes.
Future directions. The studies published over the last two years highlight the importance of measuring EDs at the symptom level, as risk factors appear to be somewhat symptom specific. In addition, studies using samples that include various age cohorts have indicated that there are distinct genetic and environmental risk factors for EDs within different age groups. Thus, future studies should continue to use members of different cohorts in their samples. In addition, longitudinal designs will continue to be of value.
