Effects of Bariatric Surgery and Lifestyle Changes on Fat and Liver Health

Change of Adipose Tissues and Triglyceride in Obese Patients With Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease After Bariatric Surgery or Life-style Intervention

Not applicable Interventional Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT03875625

This study is testing how bariatric surgery and lifestyle changes affect fat and liver health in people with obesity and related metabolic issues.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorChinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong, Shatin)
Trial IDNCT03875625 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to quantify changes in adipose tissues, liver triglycerides, and cholesterol levels following lifestyle interventions or bariatric surgery in patients with obesity and related metabolic disorders. It will investigate the role of brown adipose tissue as a potential biomarker for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and explore the relationship between brown fat, obesity, and NAFLD. The research will involve measuring various adipose tissue types and assessing liver inflammation and fibrosis through biopsies.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with a BMI of 25 or higher, particularly those with metabolic syndrome or morbid obesity.

Not a fit: Patients with other hepatic diseases or those on medications affecting liver fat may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into effective treatments for obesity and NAFLD, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown associations between obesity and NAFLD, but the specific role of brown adipose tissue as a biomarker is still being explored, making this approach novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* BMI ≥ 25-30 kg/m2
* BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 with Metabolic syndrome
* BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2 for morbid obesity

Exclusion Criteria:

* Other kind of hepatic diseases
* Under medications known to affect liver fat
* Waist circumference ≥ 150 cm
* Weight ≥ 250 kg
* MRI contraindications

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong, Shatin

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver DiseaseObesity, MorbidBrown FatMetabolic DiseaseDiabetes MellitusInsulin ResistanceAbdominal Subcutaneous FatMRI
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.