Understanding how a hormone affects eating behavior

Control of feeding behavior by melanin-concentrating hormone

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-11063258

This study is looking at how a hormone called melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) affects how much and how often we eat, with the hope of finding new ways to help people manage obesity.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11063258 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) in controlling meal size and frequency, which are crucial factors in obesity management. By examining how MCH influences the balance between appetite stimulation and satiation, the study aims to uncover new treatment strategies for obesity. The approach involves advanced techniques to monitor the activity of MCH neurons in animal models, providing insights into their function in feeding behavior. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could lead to novel therapies targeting eating behaviors.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals struggling with obesity or those interested in understanding appetite regulation.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues related to obesity or eating behaviors may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help manage obesity by regulating eating behaviors.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding hormonal influences on appetite, 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 2026-06-09 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.