How genes, environment, and behavior shape obesity risk in early childhood
Elucidating Gene-Environment-Behavior Interactions to Uncover Causal Mechanisms for Obesity in Early Life
Researchers are building computer tools that combine genetics, gut microbes, diet, growth, and behavior to predict which infants and young children may be at higher risk of obesity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11248840 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses DNA, epigenetic markers, and gut microbiome data together with growth records, body composition, diet information, and parent-reported temperament and eating behavior to build integrated computer models. The team will analyze samples and longitudinal data from the existing SK2 cohort of about 468 children followed across early childhood. Advanced systems-biology and computational methods will be used to identify how modifiable factors (like diet and behavior) and non-modifiable factors (like genetics) interact to influence weight gain. The goal is to produce predictive risk indices that could flag children who might benefit from early prevention efforts.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are infants and children (roughly 0–11 years old) with available growth and diet records and biological samples (DNA or stool), or families willing to provide such information.
Not a fit: Children outside early childhood or those without any available biological samples, growth history, or diet/behavior information are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could help identify children at risk for obesity earlier so families and clinicians can target prevention strategies sooner.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have linked genetics and the gut microbiome to childhood weight, but combining multi-omics with behavior across early life for prediction is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Champaign, United States
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Donovan, Sharon Marie — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Donovan, Sharon Marie
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 below.