Brain reward changes that drive weight regain after weight loss
Accumbal adaptations that contribute to weight regain after weight loss
This work looks at changes in a brain reward area that may cause people with obesity to regain weight after losing it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11306071 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you've lost weight and worry about gaining it back, this research studies how the brain's reward center (the nucleus accumbens) changes during weight loss and regain. Scientists will use mice to record electrical signals from these brain cells and watch their activity with calcium imaging as animals gain, lose, and regain weight. They will also use genetic tools to manipulate specific nerve-cell types to see which changes promote renewed seeking of tasty foods. The team aims to identify lasting brain changes that could be targeted to help people keep weight off.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with obesity who have lost weight and repeatedly regain it would be the most relevant group for future trials based on this work.
Not a fit: People without obesity, those who are underweight, or whose weight changes are caused by unrelated medical conditions may not benefit from this line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to brain targets for new treatments that help prevent weight regain after weight loss.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have linked reward circuits to eating behavior, but this combination of electrophysiology, in vivo calcium imaging, and genetic manipulation across a full weight-loss/regain cycle is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kravitz, Alexxai V — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Kravitz, Alexxai V
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.