Understanding how food cues increase cravings and contribute to obesity
Striatal glutamatergic plasticity and junk-food induced enhancements in cue-triggered food-craving
This study looks at how things like food smells and sights can make people with obesity crave food more and eat more, and it aims to understand how the brain helps create these cravings so we can find better ways to help manage weight.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11091567 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to food-related cues, such as smells or visual signals, affects cravings and eating behavior, particularly in individuals with obesity. It aims to explore the underlying neural mechanisms that enhance these cravings, focusing on the role of specific brain receptors involved in food-related responses. By using preclinical models, the study seeks to identify how these neurobehavioral responses can lead to increased food intake and weight gain. The ultimate goal is to develop new strategies for preventing and treating obesity by targeting these mechanisms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are struggling with obesity or related conditions such as type II diabetes.
Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or do not have obesity-related health issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new interventions that help individuals manage cravings and reduce obesity-related health risks.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neurobehavioral mechanisms of cravings, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ferrario, Carrie — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Ferrario, Carrie
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.