AUSTRALIAN scientists are looking for volunteers either living with or having recovered from anorexia nervosa, to enrol in the world's largest and most rigorous genetic investigation into the illness.

The Anorexia Nervosa Genetics Initiative aims to identify the genes that play a role in causing the serious and potentially life-threatening illness, affecting an estimated 17,000 people from New South Wales.

According to lead Australian study investigator, Head of the Genetic Epidemiology group, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Professor Nicholas Martin, PhD, Brisbane, researchers are seeking volunteers to shed light on identifying the genes that predispose people to anorexia nervosa.

"New research reveals people living with anorexia nervosa have four-times more direct relatives with anorexia nervosa than those who have never had the illness," Prof Martin said.

"In particular, life-time anorexia nervosa is six times more common in mothers, four times more common in siblings and five times more common in the offspring of people living with the illness.

"Results of this research underscore the critical importance of identifying genes that lead to the pattern that we have seen in families."

Volunteers can be male or female of any age (children require parental consent) who:

• Currently have anorexia nervosa; or
• Have had anorexia nervosa at some stage in their lives.

To learn more, or to register for the study visit angi.qimr.edu.au, email angi@qimrberghofer.edu.au, or freecall ANGI on 1800 257 179.

If you, or a loved one is currently living with anorexia nervosa, The Butterfly Foundation's ED HOPE service offers support via phone (1800 33 4673), email (support@thebutterflyfoundation.org.au) or live chat (www.thebutterflyfoundation.org.au).