How brain signals related to fullness affect obesity risk in adolescents

Relation of individual differences in fMRI-Assessed Satiation Signaling to Obesity Risk and Future Weight Gain

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL · NIH-11089502

This study is looking at how differences in brain signals that tell us when we're full might affect the chances of gaining weight in teenagers, especially those with a family history of obesity, by using brain scans and tracking their eating habits over time.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF NORTH CAROLINA CHAPEL HILL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHAPEL HILL, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11089502 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how individual differences in brain signaling related to feeling full can influence the risk of obesity and future weight gain in adolescents. By using advanced brain imaging techniques (fMRI), the study aims to understand the relationship between satiation signaling and eating behaviors in healthy-weight adolescents, particularly those at higher risk due to family history of obesity. Participants will undergo a series of assessments, including brain scans and measurements of body fat and food intake, to explore how these factors interact over time. The goal is to determine whether weaker signals of fullness lead to overeating and weight gain or if they are a result of overeating.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are healthy-weight adolescents aged 13-16, especially those with a family history of obesity.

Not a fit: Patients who are already classified as obese or have significant metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing obesity by targeting brain signaling related to fullness.

How similar studies have performed: While research has shown correlations between satiation signaling and obesity, this study aims to explore these relationships in a novel way, making it a potentially groundbreaking approach.

Where this research is happening

CHAPEL HILL, 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 →

Conditions: adult onset diabetes, Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus

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.