Understanding brain circuits that influence food-related impulsive behavior

Neural circuits mediating food impulsive behavior

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-11088698

This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain influence impulsive eating behaviors in people with obesity and binge-eating disorder, hoping to find new ways to help those who struggle with making healthy food choices.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11088698 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how specific brain circuits affect impulsive behaviors related to food, particularly in individuals with obesity and binge-eating disorder. It focuses on two types of impulsivity: impulsive actions, where individuals fail to suppress inappropriate behaviors, and impulsive choices, where decisions are made without considering consequences. By examining the role of the hippocampus and nucleus accumbens in these behaviors, the research aims to uncover the neural mechanisms that drive impulsivity towards palatable foods. This could lead to better understanding and treatment options for those struggling with food-related impulsivity.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who struggle with obesity or binge-eating disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues with impulsive eating behaviors or who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating obesity and binge-eating disorder by targeting the underlying neural circuits involved in impulsive behavior.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neural mechanisms of impulsivity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.