Understanding how brain circuits control eating behaviors
Official title: Defining the functional organization of cerebellar output circuits that control feeding behavior
Funded at Scintillon Institute for Photobiology · NIH-10794943 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain help control our eating habits and cravings, which could help us understand more about appetite and metabolism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scintillon Institute for Photobiology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2021 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $542,778 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK124801-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10794943 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing eating disorders or obesity who are interested in understanding the neurological factors influencing their behaviors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-behavioral eating issues, such as those caused by metabolic disorders unrelated to brain function, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific brain circuits in the cerebellum influence feeding and food-seeking behaviors. By examining the deep cerebellar nuclei (DCN), the study aims to identify distinct pathways that affect food intake and metabolism. The researchers will use advanced techniques like viral tracing and genetic mapping to explore how these circuits interact with other brain regions involved in feeding. This work could provide insights into the neural mechanisms that regulate appetite and eating habits.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for eating disorders and obesity by targeting the brain circuits that control feeding behavior.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain circuits related to feeding behaviors, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Scintillon Institute for Photobiology
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Albert — Scintillon Institute for Photobiology
- Study coordinator: Chen, Albert
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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.