How early life stress affects eating behaviors and obesity

The Role of Early Life Stress in Feeding Behaviors

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA · NIH-11049145

This study is looking at how stress in early life affects the brain's control over eating, especially how it might lead to overeating and obesity, so we can better understand why some people develop unhealthy eating habits.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMEDICAL UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH CAROLINA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11049145 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of early life stress on brain circuits that control feeding behaviors, particularly in relation to obesity. By studying the activity of specific neurons in the brain, the researchers aim to understand how stress during early development can lead to changes in eating patterns and increased risk of obesity. The study will utilize advanced imaging techniques to observe neuronal activity and its relationship with behaviors like binge eating. Ultimately, the goal is to uncover the mechanisms that link early life stress to unhealthy eating habits.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who have experienced early life stress and exhibit abnormal feeding behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of early life stress or who are over 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating obesity, particularly in individuals who have experienced early life stress.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between early life stress and feeding behaviors, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

CHARLESTON, 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.