Exploring the Effects of Obesity and Bariatric Surgery on the Brain Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Launched by NATIONAL TAIWAN UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL · Nov 24, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how obesity and bariatric surgery (a type of weight-loss surgery) affect the brain, using a technique called Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The researchers want to understand how these factors might change brain structure and function, which could help improve treatments for obesity. They will look at brain scans from 200 obese patients who are planning to have bariatric surgery, comparing their scans before and six months after the surgery. They will also gather information on eating behaviors and hormones that influence hunger. To better understand the results, the study will include 60 healthy individuals of normal weight as a control group.

To participate in the trial, you must be at least 20 years old and have a body mass index (BMI) of 37.5 or higher, or a BMI of 27 or higher with related health issues like diabetes or high blood pressure. If you’re healthy and have a normal weight (BMI between 18.5 and 24), you can also join as a control participant. Participants will undergo MRI scans, answer questions about their eating habits, and provide blood samples. This study aims to shed light on how bariatric surgery might change brain activity related to eating and hunger, potentially leading to better obesity treatments in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• • A. Bariatric Surgery Participants
• Inclusion Criteria (Eligibility for Study Participation):
• • Aged 20 years or older.
• • Body mass index (BMI) ≥ 37.5, or BMI ≥ 27 with obesity-related comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, or obstructive sleep apnea.
• • Scheduled to undergo bariatric surgery for obesity treatment.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Presence of neurological or psychiatric disorders.
• • Use of neurological or psychiatric medications.
• • Diagnosis of cancer or major gastrointestinal diseases.
• • History of major abdominal surgery.
• • Presence of metallic implants in the body.
• • Claustrophobia.
• • Currently pregnant.
• • B. Healthy Normal-Weight Participants
• Inclusion Criteria (Eligibility for Study Participation):
• • Aged 20 to 65 years.
• • BMI between 18.5 and 24.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Presence of neurological or psychiatric disorders.
• • Use of neurological or psychiatric medications.
• • Diagnosis of cancer or major gastrointestinal diseases.
• • History of major abdominal surgery.
• • Presence of metallic implants in the body.
• • Claustrophobia.
• • Currently pregnant.