Role of Endogenous Opioids in the Pathophysiology of Obesity and Eating Disorders

• Published in: Advances in neurobiology Vol. 35; p. 329
• Main Authors: Zuniga, Sylvana Stephano, Flores, Marcela Rodriguez, Albu, Adriana
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 2024
• Subjects: Feeding and Eating Disorders - metabolism; Feeding and Eating Disorders - physiopathology; Feeding Behavior - physiology; Humans; Obesity - metabolism; Obesity - physiopathology; Opioid Peptides - metabolism; Obesity; Endogenous opioids; Normative eating; Eating disorders
• ISSN: 2190-5215
• DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-45493-6_17

This second chapter in our trilogy reviews and critically appraises the scientific evidence for the role of endogenous opioid system (EOS) activity in the onset and progression of both obesity and eating disorders. Defining features of normative eating and maladaptive eating behaviors are discussed as a foundation. We review the scientific literature pertaining to the predisposing risk factors and pathophysiology for obesity and eating disorders. Research targeting the association between obesity, disordered eating, and psychiatric comorbidities is reviewed. We conclude by discussing the involvement of endogenous opioids in neurobiological and behavior traits, and the clinical evidence for the role of the EOS in obesity and eating disorders.