NIH-funded research R01 grant

Couples-based weight loss with a mobile app

Official title: Optimizing a couples-based mHealth intervention for weight management

Funded at University of Connecticut Storrs · NIH-11381762 · Data updated 2026-11-12

A couple-focused weight loss program delivered through a mobile app that helps partners support each other to lose weight together.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Connecticut Storrs
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Storrs-Mansfield, United States)
Project startMay 15, 2022
Project endApril 30, 2027
Funding year2026
Award (this year)$651,714
NIH project number5R01DK132386-05
Project IDNIH-11381762 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Adults in a romantic relationship who share a home and want to lose weight.

Less likely to help

Couples not interested in using a mobile app or not willing to engage in a couple-based program.

What this research studies

This project uses a smartphones app to deliver a couples-based weight loss program and tests which dyadic components help couples lose weight most effectively. It builds on a core behavioral program and adds four joint strategies, such as planning together, sharing progress, supporting each other’s autonomy, and modifying home environments. The study uses a factorial design to determine which combination of these components works best when paired with standard weight loss lessons and self-monitoring. The aim is to find an efficient, evidence-based approach that leverages the couple’s dynamic to boost outcomes. If successful, it could lead to more effective, convenient weight management options for partners living together.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, couples could lose more weight together using a flexible mobile approach that fits their daily lives.

How similar studies have gone: Early dyadic weight loss efforts showed mixed but promising results; this study uses a rigorous design to improve on prior work.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Connecticut Storrs
    Storrs-Mansfield, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Gorin, Amy a — University of Connecticut Storrs
  • Study coordinator: Gorin, Amy a

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.