How brain development affects appetite and obesity in children and teens

Neurodevelopment of executive function, appetite regulation, and obesity in children and adolescents

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF LOS ANGELES · NIH-11018559

This study is looking at how brain development and thinking skills relate to weight in kids and teens, and it wants to find out how things like what they eat and their surroundings affect their appetite and risk of becoming overweight, so we can help them stay healthy.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCHILDREN'S HOSPITAL OF LOS ANGELES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11018559 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between brain development, executive function, and obesity in children and adolescents. It aims to understand how factors like nutrition and environmental resources influence appetite regulation and obesity risk. Using advanced imaging techniques like MRI and innovative statistical methods, the study will analyze how these elements interact over time. By examining these connections, the research seeks to identify critical periods for intervention to promote healthier outcomes in youth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are children and adolescents aged 0-20, particularly those with concerns related to obesity or appetite regulation.

Not a fit: Patients who are outside the age range of 0-20 years or do not have issues related to obesity or appetite regulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing obesity and enhancing cognitive development in children and adolescents.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between brain development and obesity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.