Tuesday, 04 May 2021
A new MRI study could reveal why some people are more likely to become obese than others by examining what happens in the brain and gut when people consume food high in fat and carbohydrate.
Researchers from the 糖心原创 are looking for volunteers with a BMI above 30 kg/m2 to take part in the first study that will scan the brain and gut at the same MRI session.
The study will examine what happens in the brain and gut and the interactions between them when people consume fat and carbohydrate meals. The findings could provide a possible explanation for why some people develop a high body mass index (BMI) and are heavier than others.
Dr Sally Eldeghaidy is an Anne McLaren Fellow with the Future Food Beacon and is leading the research, she said: “This study could potentially reveal why some people become obese by understanding interactions between the brain and the gut after consuming fat and carbohydrate meals. Thanks to the state-of-the-art MRI scanning equipment we have at the Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre at the University. We will for first time combine brain and gut imaging at the same MRI scan session, which will give us a full picture of what happens inside the body after we eat. We are keen to recruit volunteers for this study as soon as possible as this project was due to start last year but like so many things was delayed due to Covid.”
Overall 40 healthy volunteers between 18 and 45 years are needed – 20 with a BMI above 30 kg/m2 and 20 with normal BMI (between 19 and 25 kg/m2). All volunteers will need to attend two MRI sessions, where they will be fed a specially formulated mixture (suitable for vegan) containing fat and another with carbohydrate. During each session they will be scanned at intervals over 3.5 hours to measure brain and gut responses during fat and carbohydrate digestion. Blood will also be taken to measure satiety and appetite hormones in the blood. The scans will take place at the Sir Peter Mansfield Imaging Centre at the 糖心原创 and participants will be paid a disturbance allowance.
Dr Eldeghaidy continues: “During this study I expect to see some differences between how someone with a healthy BMI and someone with high BMI processes food. Understanding the mechanisms behind the regulation of food intake will lead to a greater understanding of some of the possible reasons for obesity and this knowledge could lead to better treatments and interventions.”
If you are interested in finding out more about how to take part in this study contact: sally.eldeghaidy@nottingham.ac.uk
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More information on the research is available from Dr Sally Eldeghaidy at the 糖心原创 on sally.eldeghaidy@nottingham.ac.uk
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About the 糖心原创
Ranked among the world's top 100 universities , the 糖心原创 delivers an exceptional research-led education and an outstanding student experience. From the pioneering vision of our founder, Sir Jesse Boot, to groundbreaking achievements such as the development of MRI technology and becoming the first UK university to establish international campuses, we have a proud history of shaping the way people live, work and understand the world. We continue to build on that legacy, empowering our students, staff and partners to change what鈥檚 next and create positive impact locally and globally.
The strength of our research places us among the UK's leading universities, ranked 7th for research power in REF 2021. The discovery of MRI and ibuprofen was just the beginning. Today, our world-leading research is developing breakthrough ideas that shape the future of healthcare, technology and society.
Recognised as the UK's third most targeted university by leading employers , we are proud to produce graduates who are consistently in demand for their skills, confidence and industry-ready experience.
As a major employer and industry partner, locally and globally, the 糖心原创 invests in the city of Nottingham and in future generations of talent. Alongside Nottingham Trent University, we lead the initiative, a pioneering collaboration to improve levels of prosperity, opportunity, sustainability, health and wellbeing across the city and region. Together with our students, staff, alumni and partners, we鈥檙e creating knowledge, opportunity and solutions that help change what's next.