Researchers Receive $3.7 Million Grant to Study Testosterone and Binge Eating Risk in Women

A collaborative team of clinical scientists from Michigan State University and Texas A&M University has secured a $3.7 million grant from the National Institute of Mental Health. The funding is dedicated to investigating how testosterone impacts binge eating risk in women.

Addressing Gaps in Women's Health

Binge eating is estimated to affect approximately one in six women and is frequently linked to substantial medical complications. Despite its prevalence, researchers note that significant gaps remain in understanding the underlying biological contributors to the condition.

According to Kristen Culbert, a co-lead of the study and research specialist in the Michigan State University Department of Psychology, the team is grateful for the funding. Culbert emphasized the importance of pursuing rigorous science in an area of women's health that remains notably understudied.

Examining Hormonal Interplay

The investigation is co-led by Kelly Klump, an MSU Research Foundation Distinguished Professor, alongside Shaunna Clark, an associate professor in the Texas A&M Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Investigators stated this project represents the first effort to specifically examine the effects of testosterone on binge eating risk among women.

Previous work originating from the Klump laboratory established that ovarian hormones, specifically estrogen and progesterone, play a role in modulating binge eating risk. However, testosterone—another major hormone influencing the brain and behavior—has not been thoroughly explored regarding its relationship with binge eating and broader mental health outcomes in women.

The multiyear project will evaluate testosterone independently as well as in combination with estradiol and progesterone. This design aims to offer a clearer picture of how gonadal hormones may interact to influence vulnerability.

Methodology and Individual Vulnerability

Researchers do not anticipate that testosterone will affect every study participant uniformly. Dr. Klump noted that vulnerability is likely concentrated in individuals who possess other predisposing risk factors.

• Combining new hormone measures with longitudinal data
• Utilizing resources available through the Michigan State University Twin Registry
• Investigating the complex interplay among hormones, genetics, and binge eating

By leveraging the existing infrastructure of the Michigan State University Twin Registry, the research team can analyze large-scale data regarding hormones, genetics, and eating behaviors without requiring years of independent participant recruitment.

Implications for Prevention and Treatment

Investigators hope that the findings will establish a foundation for more tailored and effective approaches to prevention and treatment. Understanding the biological pathways involved in the persistence of binge eating is viewed as a critical step toward improving future clinical care.