Understanding how genes, environment, and behavior contribute to childhood obesity.
Official title: Elucidating Gene-Environment-Behavior Interactions to Uncover Causal Mechanisms for Obesity in Early Life
Funded at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-11037918 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genes, the environment, and kids' habits all work together to cause obesity in children aged 0-11, so we can find ways to help those at risk stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $596,553 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK138032-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037918 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who may be at risk for obesity due to genetic, environmental, or behavioral factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are outside the age range of 0-11 years or do not have risk factors associated with obesity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors that lead to obesity in children aged 0-11 years. By analyzing data from a biobank that includes biological samples and behavioral assessments, the study aims to develop predictive algorithms that can identify children at risk for obesity. The approach combines systems biology with insights from dietary intake and growth patterns to uncover causal mechanisms and potential interventions. This research seeks to provide a deeper understanding of how various factors influence childhood obesity and how these risks can be modified.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early identification of children at risk for obesity and inform targeted prevention strategies.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using similar integrative approaches to understand obesity risk, suggesting that this methodology could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Donovan, Sharon Marie — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Donovan, Sharon Marie
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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.