Investigating the brain's reward system in weight loss after bariatric surgery
PET-study on the Role of the Reward System in Weight Loss After Bariatric Surgery
This study is testing how the brain's reward system affects weight loss in people who had bariatric surgery to see why some don’t lose as much weight or regain it later.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Medical Center Groningen Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Leeuwarden) |
| Trial ID | NCT05359887 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study examines the role of the brain's reward system in patients who have undergone bariatric surgery and their subsequent weight loss outcomes. It focuses on measuring dopamine D2 receptor availability using positron emission tomography (PET) scans in individuals who had surgery 24-36 months prior. The study aims to understand why some patients fail to achieve significant weight loss or regain weight after surgery, potentially linking these outcomes to personality traits and eating behaviors. Participants will consume a standardized liquid meal as part of the assessment.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults who had bariatric surgery 24-36 months prior and are mentally capable of understanding the study's implications.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of certain psychiatric disorders, substance abuse, or specific medical conditions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved strategies for supporting weight loss in bariatric surgery patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown changes in dopamine receptor availability post-bariatric surgery, suggesting this approach has potential but may still be novel in this specific context.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Bariatric surgery 24-36 months prior to the study * Adult (over 18y old) * Mentally capable to understand the consequences of the procedure and make his or her own choice without coercion * Able to undergo PET and MRI, according to the investigator's assessment * Native speaking * Able to participate in follow-up * Written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of a DSM-IV axis 1 disorder * The use of drugs that bind to dopamine D2/3 receptors, including various classes of antipsychotics and antidepressants * History of stroke, brain tumor, Parkinson's Disease or dementia * History of head trauma with loss of consciousness * Alcohol or substance abuse in the last 6 months * Alcohol consumption 24h prior to PET scanning * Smoking or other forms of nicotine intake 12 hours prior to PET scanning * Use of anorectic drugs in the last 6 months * Current pregnancy * Medication for Diabetes Mellitus * Claustrophobia * The presence of implanted metal objects of the type which may concentrate radiofrequency fields or cause tissue damage from twisting in a magnetic field (such as certain implanted devices, shrapnel, ocular metal shavings) * Patients with a bodyweight \> 200kg will be excluded to ensure the maximum load of the camera bed of the PET-scanner (227 kg) is not exceeded.
Where this trial is running
Leeuwarden
- Mcl — Leeuwarden, Netherlands (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: D.L. Marinus Oterdoom, MD
- Email: d.l.m.oterdoom@umcg.nl
- Phone: +31503612837
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.