Understanding how the brain regulates eating behavior

Neural Mechanisms of Ingestive Behavior

NIH-funded research University of Louisville · NIH-11117139

This study is looking at how our brains help us notice and react to feelings related to eating, focusing on how certain brain areas work together to influence our food choices, which could help us understand what controls our hunger and how much we eat.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Louisville NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Louisville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11117139 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the neural mechanisms that influence how we sense and respond to internal signals related to eating. It focuses on the pathways in the brain that process sensory information from both taste and postoral signals, which are crucial for making food choices. By studying specific brain regions, particularly the amygdala and its connections to the parabrachial nucleus, the research aims to uncover how these pathways affect ingestive behavior. This could lead to a better understanding of the biological signals that regulate appetite and food intake.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals experiencing issues related to appetite regulation, such as those with eating disorders or obesity.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any issues with appetite regulation or eating behavior may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the regulation of eating behavior, potentially informing treatments for eating disorders and obesity.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding the role of brain pathways in regulating behavior, making this approach promising yet still exploring new territory.

Where this research is happening

Louisville, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.