Understanding brain circuits that influence eating behavior
Official title: Elucidating MCH neural circuitry underlying consummatory behavior
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11083103 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how specific brain cells influence our cravings and eating choices, even when we're not hungry, to help us better understand and treat obesity and eating disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $41,464 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DK135283-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083103 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or eating disorders who are interested in understanding the underlying neural mechanisms of their conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues related to eating behaviors or weight management may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural circuits involved in eating behaviors, particularly focusing on how certain brain cells, known as melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) neurons, affect our cravings and decisions to eat. By examining both the biological and psychological factors that drive consumption, the study aims to uncover the complex motivations behind eating, including those that occur even when we are not hungry. The approach involves advanced techniques to map and analyze the brain's circuitry related to appetite regulation and reward. This could lead to new insights into treating obesity and eating disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for obesity and eating disorders by targeting the brain circuits that influence eating behavior.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding neural circuits related to appetite and reward, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Furman, Katherine L — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Furman, Katherine L
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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.