Understanding brain changes after bariatric surgery for obesity

Changes in Cerebrospinal Fluid Biomarkers After Bariatric Surgery

NA · Columbia University · NCT04350892

This study is trying to see how bariatric surgery affects brain chemicals that control appetite and weight in people with obesity.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment48 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorColumbia University (other)
Locations1 site (New York, New York)
Trial IDNCT04350892 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to explore the effectiveness of bariatric surgery in treating obesity by examining cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers related to brain activity. Participants undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy will have their CSF and blood analyzed before and after surgery, as well as compared to individuals on a very low-calorie diet. The study will focus on neuropeptides, hormones, and proteins that regulate appetite and body weight, with the goal of uncovering unique biomarkers associated with surgical weight loss. By understanding the central nervous system's response to these surgical interventions, the research seeks to explain the long-term success of bariatric surgery in weight management.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-65 with a BMI between 35 and 55 who are planning to undergo bariatric surgery.

Not a fit: Patients with significant medical conditions, recent weight changes, or those on medications affecting weight or glucose levels may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into why bariatric surgery is more effective than diet-induced weight loss, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies for obesity.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on bariatric surgery exist, this specific focus on cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers and their relationship to brain mechanisms in obesity is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18-65 years old
* BMI 35-55

Exclusion Criteria:

* No clinically significant medical conditions
* No use of tobacco
* No alcohol or drug abuse
* No recent weight change (+/-5%) within prior 6 months
* No medications that may affect body weight or blood glucose
* No diabetes medications, beta-blockers, opiates or glucocorticoids
* No pregnancy, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant during the study (diet group only)
* No lactose intolerance

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

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: Obesity, Bariatric Surgery, Gastric Bypass, Sleeve Gastrectomy, Weight Loss, Low Calorie Diet

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.