Understanding how food intake affects the adolescent brain
The Neural Underpinnings of Disinhibited Eating Behavior in Adolescents With and Without Obesity
This study is trying to see how eating too much affects the brains of teenagers, especially those who are overweight, to better understand why some young people overeat.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 13 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Colorado, Denver Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Aurora, Colorado) |
| Trial ID | NCT04208256 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the relationship between brain responses to excess energy and overeating behaviors in adolescents, particularly focusing on those with and without obesity. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), researchers will assess how the adolescent brain processes food intake during a critical developmental period. The goal is to gain insights into feeding behaviors that contribute to pediatric obesity, which is a growing concern in public health.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adolescents aged 13-18 years who reside in Colorado.
Not a fit: Patients with metabolic disorders, eating disorders, or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to better understanding and interventions for preventing obesity in adolescents.
How similar studies have performed: While studies on brain responses to food intake exist, this specific focus on adolescents and their unique developmental challenges is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * male or female * 13-18 years-old * resident of Colorado Exclusion Criteria: * weigh less than 88 pounds or have a BMI% rank of \<10% for age and sex; * have a physician's diagnosis of metabolic syndrome or diabetes (Type 1 or 2); * have a physician's diagnosis of anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa; * currently taking anti-psychotic medications (not including anti-depressant or anti- anxiety medications); * have a non-MRI safe device (e.g. pacemaker or defibrillator) or metal in the body (e.g. metal pins, shrapnel); * experience symptoms of claustrophobia when in small or closed-off places; * are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
Where this trial is running
Aurora, Colorado
- University of Colorado — Aurora, Colorado, United States (Recruiting)
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.