Identifying genes linked to obesity caused by diet in adolescents
Systems genetics to identify neuronal genes for diet-induced obesity
This study looks at how genes might affect the chances of teens becoming obese when they eat a lot of fatty foods, using rats to help figure out which genetic traits are linked to body fat, so we can better understand why some young people gain weight more easily than others and find ways to help those at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10646341 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how genetic factors influence the risk of obesity in adolescents, particularly in response to high-fat diets. By using a specific rat model, the study aims to map genetic traits associated with body fat and understand how these traits interact with dietary habits. The goal is to uncover the biological mechanisms that lead to obesity, which could help in developing targeted interventions for at-risk youth. The findings may provide insights into why some individuals gain weight while others do not when exposed to similar dietary conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents who are experiencing obesity or are at risk of becoming obese due to dietary habits.
Not a fit: Patients who are not adolescents or those who do not have concerns related to obesity may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized dietary recommendations and interventions for adolescents at risk of obesity.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic factors related to obesity, making this approach promising but still requiring further exploration.
Where this research is happening
Winston-Salem, United States
- Wake Forest University Health Sciences — Winston-Salem, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Solberg Woods, Leah Catherine — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Solberg Woods, Leah Catherine
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.