Understanding how a specific brain region affects eating behavior in older adults
Official title: Role of the parasubthalamic nucleus (PSTN) in the central regulation of feeding behavior
Funded at Williams College · NIH-11043682 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific part of the brain called the parasubthalamic nucleus affects hunger and eating habits in older adults, to help understand how it can influence issues like not eating enough or overeating.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Williams College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Williamstown, United States) |
| Project start | April 16, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $427,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R15DK142148-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043682 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who may experience appetite-related issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without appetite regulation problems may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the parasubthalamic nucleus (PSTN) in regulating appetite and feeding behavior, particularly in older adults. By examining the neural connections and activity patterns of this brain region, the study aims to uncover how it influences hunger and appetite suppression. The research will involve analyzing how different stimuli affect the PSTN and its impact on eating behaviors, which can be crucial for addressing issues like undernourishment and obesity in the elderly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for appetite regulation, helping older adults maintain a healthy weight and improve their nutritional status.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of the PSTN in appetite regulation is relatively understudied, similar research on other brain regions has shown promising results in understanding feeding behavior.
Where this research is happening
-
Williams College
Williamstown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carter, Matthew E — Williams College
- Study coordinator: Carter, Matthew E
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.