Investigating how diet affects brain inflammation related to obesity

Assessing the effect of diet on hypothalamic gliosis in humans

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-10897125

This study is looking at how eating high-calorie foods might affect brain inflammation that can impact weight control, and it's open to both adults and kids who want to help us understand more about obesity.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10897125 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to explore the relationship between diet and hypothalamic gliosis, a type of brain inflammation that may influence body weight regulation. By conducting a randomized clinical trial, researchers will assess the effects of high-calorie diets on hypothalamic gliosis in both adults and children. Using advanced imaging techniques like MRI, the study seeks to determine whether dietary changes can induce inflammation in the hypothalamus, which is crucial for understanding obesity mechanisms. Participants will be monitored for safety and feasibility throughout the trial.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals of all ages who are experiencing obesity or related metabolic conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or do not have metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary recommendations and interventions for preventing and treating obesity.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in animal models, but this study aims to provide controlled clinical evidence in humans.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.