Impact of Eating Disorders on Biological Ageing

The research department of St Patrick’s Mental Health Services are currently investigating the effect of eating disorders on the ageing process. The effects of prolonged dietary restriction on the telomeres and mitochondriae within our cells may mediate these adverse outcomes.

The research department of St Patrick’s Mental Health Services are currently investigating the effect of eating disorders on the ageing process.

Objective measures of ageing include the examination of structures within the cells in our bodies called telomeres and mitochondriae. These cellular structures can be investigated by analysing blood samples. The effects of prolonged dietary restriction on these structures within our cells may mediate these adverse outcomes.

The study, Impact of Eating Disorders on Biological Ageing started recruiting in August 2018. The main purpose of the study is to compare blood samples between patients with eating disorders and healthy controls and to explore the effect of duration and severity of illness on these structures within our cells. Recruitment for this study is due to be completed in June 2019 and blood samples will then be analysed.

The results of this study will provide further information on the biological effects on eating disorders on the body and guide treatment plans for patients.

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