Investigating how oxytocin affects weight loss and heart health in obesity
Oxytocin Signaling in the Control of Cardiometabolic Function in Diet-Induced Obesity
This study is looking at how a hormone called oxytocin might help people with weight gain from their diet by making it easier to manage hunger and burn energy, while also checking if it can be good for heart health by lowering blood pressure and heart rate.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Puget Sound Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11098565 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of oxytocin, a hormone, in managing weight and improving heart health for individuals with diet-induced obesity. It examines how oxytocin can help overcome leptin resistance, a condition that makes it difficult for the body to regulate hunger and energy use. By targeting brown adipose tissue, the study aims to enhance energy expenditure while simultaneously reducing food intake. The research also looks into the potential cardiovascular benefits of oxytocin, such as lowering blood pressure and heart rate.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults struggling with obesity, particularly those who have developed leptin resistance or related cardiometabolic conditions.
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 treatments for obesity and related cardiovascular issues, improving overall health outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with oxytocin in animal models, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- VA Puget Sound Healthcare System — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blevins, James Ernest — VA Puget Sound Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Blevins, James Ernest
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.