Exploring how brain stimulation affects feelings of fullness in healthy people

Validation of a Novel Cerebellar-striatal Satiety Circuit in Humans

NA · Brigham and Women's Hospital · NCT06105164

This study is testing how brain stimulation can change feelings of fullness in healthy people to better understand appetite control.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorBrigham and Women's Hospital (other)
Locations2 sites (Belmont, Massachusetts and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06105164 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the role of the cerebellar-striatal circuit in appetite regulation using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in healthy individuals. Participants will undergo screening, MRI scans, and food intake assessments to evaluate how brain stimulation influences their response to food cues. The study aims to enhance understanding of how the cerebellum contributes to feelings of satiety and eating behavior. By manipulating brain activity, researchers hope to uncover new insights into appetite control mechanisms.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy individuals aged 18 to 65 with a BMI between 20-35 kg/m2.

Not a fit: Patients with current or past eating disorders, significant medical conditions, or those on weight loss medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing obesity and appetite-related disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using TMS is established, the specific focus on the cerebellar-striatal circuit in relation to satiety is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Healthy individuals aged 18 to 65
* BMI of 20-35.0 kg/m2
* Normal or corrected-to-normal vision
* Good general health
* Ability to understand and willingness to sign written informed consent document

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current and/or past medical conditions
* Current and/or past eating disorder
* On a restricted diet and/or taking weight loss medication(s)
* History of bariatric surgery
* Weight fluctuation \>3% in past 3 months
* Recent history of illicit recreational drug abuse
* Current nicotine use
* Intellectual disability
* Conditions that might result in increased risks of side effects or complications from TMS or MRI

Where this trial is running

Belmont, Massachusetts and 1 other locations

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Appetitive Behavior, Obesity

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.