Brain Regulation of Appetite in Twins (BRAT)

University of Washington

Status

Completed

Conditions

Obesity

Appetite

Treatments

Procedure: Intravenous Catheter (IV) placement

Other: Test Meals

Other: Questionnaires

Other: Mood and Appetite Ratings

Device: Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Radiation: Dual Energy X-ray absorptiometry

Other: Computer Tests

Study type

Observational

Funder types

Other

Identifiers

NCT02483663

38970

Details and patient eligibility

About

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.

Enrollment

122 patients

Sex

All

Ages

18 to 50 years old

Volunteers

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

Ability and willingness to come with their twin to the University of Washington (Seattle)
Additional Criteria for Aim 1 random sample only: Member of randomly selected MZ pair or
Additional criteria for Aim 2 random sample only: One member of MZ or same-sex DZ pair with BMI of at least 30 kg/m^2
Additional criteria for Aim 3 sample only: Member of randomly selected MZ pair, and not BMI discordant ≥ 5 kg/m^2

Exclusion criteria

History of weight loss surgery or active participation in weight loss program
Major medical problem (e.g., diabetes, cancer)
Current use of weight loss medications or other medications known to alter appetite
Pregnancy or menopause
MRI contraindication (i.e., implanted metal, claustrophobia)
Lifetime eating disorder
Current smoking
Current heavy alcohol use (≥2 drinks per day for females and ≥ 3 drinks per day for males)
Self-reported weight >330 pounds at time of phone screening. MRI cannot accommodate all shapes or weights. Inability to have MRI does not exclude subject from participating in other study procedures.
BMI < 18.5 or > 45 kg/m^2
Allergies to study foods or inability to taste
Twins were raised apart
Co-twin not eligible or not willing to participate