RenaSci has successfully developed and validated a new rat model of binge-eating disorder. Rats are given free access to normal rat diet and irregular access to chocolate for limited periods (2 h). After 3-4 weeks, robust binge-eating develops.

We have tested lisdexamfetamine, the first and only drug approved by the FDA for the specific treatment of binge-eating disorder, in our rodent model. Lisdexamfetamine preferentially reduced intake of highly palatable food in rats trained to binge-eat.

The development of binge-eating in rats given irregular, intermittent access to chocolate; and the effect of acute administration of lisdexamfetamine on food intake during a binge episode (left to right)

We have also developed a food-associated conflict test to measure compulsivity in binge-eating rats, and a delay-discounting model to evaluate impulsivity and intolerance of delayed reward in binge-eating rats. Both models have been validated with lisdexamfetamine and can be used to evaluate the compulsivity and impulsivity components of binge-eating disorder psychopathology.