Brain Regulation of Appetite in Twins

Summary

Scientists are examining the genetic and environmental influences on appetite and weight gain. The main purpose of this study is to look at how genetic and environmental factors may influence how the brain regulates appetite and food intake. Understanding how the brain regulates appetite and food intake may eventually lead to new ways to help people avoid obesity or lose weight.

Conditions

• Obesity
• Appetite

Interventions

DEVICE

Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Measure brain activity.

RADIATION

Dual Energy X-ray absorptiometry

Body composition measurements.

OTHER

Questionnaires

Questionnaires related to: health, weight, sleep, mood, dietary habits, attitudes towards eating, how you describe yourself.

OTHER

Mood and Appetite Ratings

Answer questions about how you are feeling at the moment.

OTHER

Test Meals

Breakfast, a snack, and lunch provided during study visit.

OTHER

Computer Tests

Perform a series of computer tests to determine reaction time.

PROCEDURE

Intravenous Catheter (IV) placement

Blood samples collected throughout regular intervals during the study visit day to measure levels of hormones involved in regulating appetite and body weight. We will also determine if twins are fraternal or identical and will examine DNA to see if participants carry two genes that affect appetite or body weight, the FTO gene and the MC4R gene.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

  collaborator OTHER

• Columbia University

  collaborator OTHER

• University of Washington

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Ellen Schur, MD, MS · University of Washington

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

50 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2010-08-31

Primary Completion

2015-08-31

Completion

2015-08-31

Countries

• United States

Study Locations