Translational Perspectives on Binge-Eating: Insights from Animal Models

Binge-eating is a behavior that is both recognized in both binge-eating disorder and binge-subtypes of restrictive eating disorders. Binge-eating is distinct from obesity, although the two frequently co-occur. The purpose of this review is to examine animal models of binge like behavior independent of obesity as a phenotype and to examine recent findings. Current research indicates three major precipitants of binge-like behavior in rodents, namely limited access to palatable food, limited access to food following stress, and cue-induced overconsumption. These models have enabled mechanistic studies, which highlight the role of several key brain regions and circuits in binge-eating. Taken together, these studies highlight the important role that preclinical models play in elucidating the mechanisms underlying binge-eating and to develop therapeutic interventions.