Understanding how the brainstem controls feelings of hunger and fullness

Deconstructing brainstem circuits for visceral senses

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · SCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE · NIH-11082494

This study is looking at how the brain helps control our hunger and digestion by responding to signals from our stomach, which could help people understand their eating habits better, especially those dealing with obesity or anorexia.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11082494 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how the brainstem processes signals from the digestive system to regulate appetite and metabolic functions. By analyzing the neural circuits involved, the study aims to uncover how the brain interprets cues related to food intake and bodily needs. The approach includes advanced techniques to visualize and manipulate brain activity in response to gastrointestinal signals, which could lead to insights into conditions like obesity and anorexia. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how their bodies regulate hunger and digestion.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing issues with appetite regulation, such as obesity, anorexia, or related metabolic disorders.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to appetite regulation or those not experiencing metabolic dysregulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for obesity, diabetes, and anorexia by improving our understanding of appetite regulation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain circuits related to appetite, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, 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.