Investigating brain circuits that influence overeating of tasty foods
A leptin-responsive lateral hypothalamus to ventrolateral periaqueductal gray circuit for palatable food overconsumption
['FUNDING_R01'] · VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV · NIH-11062357
This study is looking at how certain brain connections affect our cravings for tasty foods, which can lead to weight gain, and it aims to find new ways to help people manage their eating habits and avoid gaining weight back after dieting.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BLACKSBURG, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11062357 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain brain circuits contribute to the overconsumption of palatable foods, which is a significant factor in obesity. The study examines the role of leptin, a hormone that helps regulate appetite, and how its effectiveness can diminish over time, leading to a relapse in unhealthy eating habits. By exploring the neural pathways involved, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for preventing obesity relapse after dieting. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for managing cravings and overeating.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or those who have previously attempted to lose weight but have relapsed into overeating.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues with overeating or obesity may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing obesity relapse by targeting specific brain circuits involved in food cravings.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of brain circuits in appetite regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
BLACKSBURG, UNITED STATES
- VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV — BLACKSBURG, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHIN, SORA — VIRGINIA POLYTECHNIC INST AND ST UNIV
- Study coordinator: SHIN, SORA
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.