How body fat and endocannabinoids affect the taste of fat and obesity
Official title: Regulation of Fat Taste by Adiposity and Endocannabinoids: Implications for Obesity
Funded at Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. · NIH-10735901 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our body's natural system for processing cannabis affects how we taste and enjoy fatty foods, especially for people who are dealing with obesity, to find ways to help reduce cravings for high-fat snacks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Piscataway, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $193,452 |
| NIH project number | 5R21DC020366-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10735901 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are classified as obese and may struggle with cravings for fatty foods.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are underweight or have no issues with fat intake may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the endocannabinoid system influences the detection and enjoyment of fatty foods, particularly in individuals with obesity. By examining the biological mechanisms behind fat taste perception, the study aims to identify ways to reduce the desire for high-fat foods. The approach includes experiments that assess how these taste and reward systems function differently in obese individuals compared to those with normal weight. The ultimate goal is to develop therapeutic strategies that can help manage fat intake and combat obesity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help reduce cravings for unhealthy fatty foods, potentially aiding in weight management and obesity prevention.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the endocannabinoid system in appetite regulation, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
Piscataway, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Breslin, Paul a. S — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
- Study coordinator: Breslin, Paul a. S
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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.