Genetic epidemiology, endophenotypes, and eating disorder classification.
OBJECTIVE
To explore how genetic epidemiology has informed the identification of endophenotypes and how endophenotypes may inform future classification of eating disorders.


METHODS
Literature review and synthesis.


RESULTS
Although a number of endo- and subphenotypes have been suggested for eating disorders, few reach the rigorous definitions developed for candidate endophenotypes.


CONCLUSIONS
Further study of endophenotypes and subphenotypes for eating disorders may assist with developing a more homogenous classification system that more closely reflects underlying biological mechanisms, and provides a clearer focus for the development of coherent models and treatments.
Bulik
Cynthia M
CM
Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7160, USA. cbulik@med.unc.edu
Hebebrand
Johannes
J
Keski-Rahkonen
Anna
A
Klump
Kelly L
KL
Reichborn-Kjennerud
Ted
T
Mazzeo
Suzanne E
SE
Wade
Tracey D
TD
D000856:Anorexia Nervosa / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics; D052018:Bulimia Nervosa / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics; D001068:Feeding and Eating Disorders / Q000145:classification / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000235:genetics*; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006801:Humans; D010641:Phenotype