How hormones affect eating behavior and obesity

Rapid hormonal modulation of feeding circuit dynamics and its disruption in obesity

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11034092

This study looks at how eating a lot of carbs affects the brain's hunger signals and how this changes when someone is obese, hoping to understand how our gut and brain work together to make us feel full or hungry.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11034092 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how carbohydrate-rich diets influence the brain's feeding circuits and how these processes are altered in obesity. By studying the communication between the gut and the brain, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that regulate feelings of fullness and hunger. The approach involves using animal models to observe the effects of nutrient delivery on specific neurons in the hypothalamus that control appetite. The findings could provide insights into the biological factors contributing to obesity and potential interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or those interested in understanding the biological factors influencing their eating behaviors.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by obesity or those with eating disorders unrelated to hormonal regulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing obesity and improving dietary habits.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding gut-brain communication and its impact on appetite regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.