Understanding how brain circuits influence eating behavior and obesity
Official title: Top Down Regulation of Feeding-related Behavior
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-11029446 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain brain cells help control our eating habits and decisions about food, which could help people understand how their brains influence hunger and weight management.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | December 20, 2024 |
| Project end | November 20, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $499,761 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK141837-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11029446 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults struggling with obesity or related eating disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing obesity or related cognitive issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between brain circuits and feeding behavior, particularly focusing on how specific neurons in the hypothalamus communicate with areas of the brain that control decision-making and habits. By examining the role of melanocortin peptides and their receptors, the study aims to uncover how these brain mechanisms affect cognitive functions related to food intake and obesity. Patients may benefit from insights into how their brain's processing of hunger and satiety cues can influence their eating habits and weight management.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating obesity by targeting brain circuits that regulate eating behavior.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the brain's role in regulating eating behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ross, Rachel a — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Ross, Rachel a
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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.