The course aims at illustrating the neurobiological basis of human eating behaviour, describing the role of different brain circuits in the healthy eating and in cases of altered eating behaviour. After an introduction to the main mechanisms that influence eating behaviour, the course will examine some of the characteristics of clinical populations with eating disorders. Part of the course will focus on the research techniques used to study the neurobiological basis of eating behaviour and the latest scientific researches aimed at promoting innovative treatment strategies.
Course Prerequisites
Basic knowledge of neurobiological correlates of behaviour and main cognitive functions (emotions, attention, reward mechanisms). Basic knowledge of the research instruments and techniques of cognitive neuroscience.
Teaching Methods
Frontal lectures, discussion and group work, individual presentations of scientific papers.
Assessment Methods
Written exam. A maximum of 3 bonus points can be accumulated through the individual presentation of a scientific paper during the course.
Texts
Slides and scientific articles will be made available during the course. Relevant papers: Giuliani, N. R., Merchant, J. S., Cosme, D., & Berkman, E. T. (2018). Neural predictors of eating behavior and dietary change. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1428(1), 208–220. https://doi.org/10.1111/nyas.13637 Brooks, S.J., Rask-Andersen, M., Benedict, C. et al. A debate on current eating disorder diagnoses in light of neurobiological findings: is it time for a spectrum model?. BMC Psychiatry 12, 76 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-244X-12-76
Contents
Introduction to nutritional neuroscience. Modulators of eating behaviour and neural correlates (emotions, impulsivity, individual differences, inhibitory control, gender differences). Brain-based-approach to eating disorders. Neurostimulation and cognitive treatments.
