Understanding how obesity affects brain circuits that control eating behavior
Official title: Defining the neural basis for persistent obesity
Funded at Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. · NIH-10910158 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells might change in people with obesity and how these changes could lead to overeating, so we can better understand what drives hunger and help those struggling with weight.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Piscataway, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $151,492 |
| NIH project number | 5K01DK134804-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10910158 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are struggling with obesity or related eating disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or do not have any eating disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms that contribute to persistent obesity by focusing on specific brain circuits involved in feeding behavior. The study aims to identify how certain neurons in the nucleus accumbens, a brain region linked to reward and motivation, are altered in individuals with obesity. By examining the activity of D1-receptor expressing neurons during food-seeking behavior, the research seeks to uncover the underlying changes that promote overeating. This could involve advanced techniques like CRISPR and electrophysiology to analyze brain function and connectivity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for obesity by targeting the brain circuits that drive excessive eating.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the brain's role in feeding behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
Piscataway, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Matikainen-Ankney, Bridget — Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j.
- Study coordinator: Matikainen-Ankney, Bridget
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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.