Investigating how cesarean delivery affects obesity risk through hormone levels

Avoiding Cesarean-induced Obesity Through Hormone Rescue

NIH-funded research University of Delaware · NIH-11062450

This study is looking at how being born by cesarean section might change hormone levels in newborns, which could lead to weight gain and obesity later in life, using prairie voles to help understand these effects for both animals and humans.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Delaware NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11062450 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of cesarean section (CS) deliveries on hormone levels in newborns and how these changes may lead to increased obesity later in life. By studying prairie voles, a rodent model, the researchers aim to understand the physiological effects of CS on energy regulation and metabolism. The study will assess how altered hormone signaling at birth influences weight gain and fat distribution as the voles develop. The findings could provide insights into the long-term health implications of cesarean deliveries for both animals and humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include newborns delivered via cesarean section and their families.

Not a fit: Patients who were not delivered via cesarean section are unlikely to benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to strategies that mitigate obesity risks associated with cesarean deliveries in newborns.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated a connection between birth mode and obesity risk, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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.