Understanding how environment shapes our genes and obesity risk
Novel imprint control regions (ICRs) responsive to environmental exposures
This research aims to discover new genetic markers that link environmental factors to obesity, especially in children and adolescents.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | North Carolina State University Raleigh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Raleigh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11129763 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people are affected by obesity, and scientists believe that environmental factors can change how our genes work, which then affects our risk of becoming obese. Currently, we don't have good tools to find these specific genetic changes, called epigenetic modifications, that are influenced by our surroundings. This project is developing a new screening tool to identify these important genetic markers. By understanding these connections, we hope to learn more about how our environment contributes to obesity and other health conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research focuses on understanding genetic changes related to obesity in age groups from 0-11 years old and adolescents, though it does not directly recruit patients for intervention.
Not a fit: Patients not at risk for obesity or those seeking immediate treatment options may not directly benefit from this foundational research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to better ways to identify individuals at risk for obesity and potentially develop new strategies for prevention.
How similar studies have performed: This project aims to develop a novel screening tool and identify largely unknown epigenetic regions, suggesting a new and untested approach in this specific area.
Where this research is happening
Raleigh, United States
- North Carolina State University Raleigh — Raleigh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hoyo, Cathrine — North Carolina State University Raleigh
- Study coordinator: Hoyo, Cathrine
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 below.