Brain signals in the reward center linked to loss-of-control eating
Investigating the role of nucleus accumbens delta signaling in loss of control
Using a responsive implanted brain device to interrupt harmful signals in the reward center and reduce loss-of-control binge eating in adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11289323 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work uses a small implanted device placed in the nucleus accumbens, a brain area tied to reward, to record low-frequency (delta) signals linked to craving and loss of control. When those signals are detected the device delivers brief stimulation intended to stop or reduce the urge to binge. Two people have already had bilateral implants and shown less loss-of-control, and the team is enrolling a few more as part of an early feasibility effort. Researchers will analyze brain recordings and behavior around cravings and stimulation to learn which signals predict episodes and how stimulation changes them.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults (typically age 21+) with moderate-to-severe binge eating disorder who experience frequent loss-of-control episodes and are willing to consider brain surgery and implanted-device follow-up.
Not a fit: People who are unwilling or medically ineligible for brain implantation, who have other primary eating disorders, or who have only mild/infrequent bingeing are unlikely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reduce how often or how intensely loss-of-control binge episodes occur by detecting and interrupting the brain activity that triggers them.
How similar studies have performed: Responsive neurostimulation is an established therapy for epilepsy and has shown early promising results in a very small number of people with loss-of-control eating, but using delta-guided stimulation for binge eating is experimental and early-stage.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Halpern, Casey Harrison — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Halpern, Casey Harrison
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.