A new study, 'A biobehavioural model of the night eating syndrome,' is now available. According to a study from the United States, "This paper will propose a biobehavioral mechanism for the Night Eating Syndrome (NES), a disorder characterized by a delayed circadian rhythm of food intake and neuroendocrine function. Food intake consists of at least 25% of daily caloric intake after the evening meal and/or at least two nighttime awakenings with ingestions per week."

"This will be explored by reviewing neuroimaging of brain serotonin transporters (SERT) and treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SERT binding is elevated in the midbrain of night eaters, causing dysregulation of the circadian rhythm of both food intake and neuroendocrine function. The administration of SSRIs blocks the reuptake of serotonin and restores the circadian rhythm of both food intake and neuroendocrine function. This hypothesis implies that reduction of SERT activity should increase postsynaptic serotonin transmission and relieve NES. This is precisely the effect of SSRIs. NES is a function of elevated SERT, and blocking of SERT with an SSRI resolves NES," wrote A.J. Stunkard and colleagues, University of Pennsylvania (see also Life Sciences).

The researchers concluded: "This model of NES attests to the validity of the diagnosis of NES and the criteria by which it is identified, and it provides an explanation of the mechanism."

Stunkard and colleagues published the results of their research in Obesity Reviews (A biobehavioural model of the night eating syndrome. Obesity Reviews, 2009;10 Suppl 2():69-77).

For additional information, contact A.J. Stunkard, University of Pennsylvania, Center for Weight and Eating Disorders, Dept. of Psychiatry, Center for Weight and Eating Disorders, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-3309 USA..

The publisher of the journal Obesity Reviews can be contacted at: Blackwell Publishing Inc., 350 Main St., Malden, MA 02148, USA.