Understanding how obesity causes high blood pressure

Neuronal Mechanisms of Obesity-Induced Hypertension

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · IOWA CITY VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11098489

This study is looking at how being overweight can affect blood pressure by exploring how the brain controls certain nerves that influence it, and it aims to find new ways to help people with high blood pressure who are also dealing with obesity.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorIOWA CITY VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11098489 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the connection between obesity and hypertension, particularly focusing on how the brain regulates sympathetic nerve activity that leads to increased blood pressure. By studying specific brain mechanisms and signaling pathways, such as the role of leptin and mTORC1, the research aims to uncover the cellular and molecular processes that contribute to cardiovascular risks associated with obesity. The findings could help identify new therapeutic targets for managing hypertension in obese individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are obese and experiencing hypertension or are at risk for cardiovascular diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or do not have hypertension may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for hypertension in patients with obesity, potentially reducing the risk of serious cardiovascular events.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the brain's role in obesity-related hypertension, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.