Exploring how sex differences and gut bacteria affect eating behaviors
Official title: Sex differences in hedonic feeding: the role of the gut microbiome
Funded at Furman University · NIH-10653326 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might affect why we eat certain foods for pleasure, especially tasty, high-fat ones, and it wants to see if there are differences between men and women in these eating habits, particularly to help understand obesity in women.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Furman University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Greenville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $416,456 |
| NIH project number | 1R15DK136098-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10653326 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults, especially women, who are interested in understanding the factors influencing their eating behaviors and obesity risk.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or do not have an interest in dietary behaviors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the gut microbiome influences eating behaviors, particularly hedonic feeding, which is eating for pleasure rather than hunger. It focuses on understanding the differences between males and females in their food intake patterns, especially regarding high-fat, palatable foods. By analyzing fecal microbiome diversity, the study aims to uncover the biological factors that contribute to obesity, particularly in women. The research employs a combination of dietary assessments and microbiome analysis to explore these connections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating obesity, particularly among women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between the gut microbiome and eating behaviors, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Furman University
Greenville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Freeman, Linnea Ruth — Furman University
- Study coordinator: Freeman, Linnea Ruth
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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.