How obesity affects glucose transport and metabolism in the brain

The impact of obesity on cerebral glucose transport and metabolism

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10813776

This study is looking at how being overweight might affect the brain's ability to use sugar for energy, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how obesity can impact brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-10813776 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between obesity and brain metabolism, specifically focusing on how obesity may reduce the brain's ability to transport glucose across the blood-brain barrier. Using advanced neuroimaging techniques and metabolic assessments, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind this association, including the role of fatty acids in glucose transport. The research includes both human participants and animal models to provide a comprehensive understanding of the effects of obesity on brain function.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who are obese or have a body mass index (BMI) indicating obesity.

Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or do not have related metabolic conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how obesity impacts brain health and may inform strategies for preventing or treating cognitive decline in obese individuals.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between obesity and reduced brain metabolism, suggesting that this study builds on established findings but explores new mechanisms.

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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
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.