Understanding how genetic factors influence childhood obesity
Official title: Characterizing the Human Imprint Regulatory Regions Associated with Childhood Obesity
Funded at North Carolina State University Raleigh · NIH-10662238 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in our DNA might affect the risk of childhood obesity, and it aims to create a helpful tool to better understand how things in our environment can influence kids' weight.
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 start | September 6, 2019 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $567,801 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD098857-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10662238 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are at risk for obesity or are already experiencing weight-related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients outside the age range of 0-11 years or those without obesity-related concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of epigenetic mechanisms in childhood obesity by identifying specific regulatory regions in DNA that may influence obesity risk. The study aims to create a comprehensive screening tool to measure these epigenetic modifications, which could help clarify how environmental factors contribute to obesity outcomes in children. By focusing on imprinted genes, the research seeks to establish a detailed map of the human 'imprintome' that could provide insights into the biological processes underlying obesity. This approach addresses current limitations in understanding how genetic and environmental factors interact over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for childhood obesity by identifying genetic markers associated with the condition.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding epigenetic influences on obesity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
North Carolina State University Raleigh
Raleigh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Skaar, David — North Carolina State University Raleigh
- Study coordinator: Skaar, David
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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.