RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

The Poor Responders Study

Weight-loss surgery is a common treatment for severe obesity and type 2 diabetes. While many people benefit greatly, some don't lose as much weight as expected or regain it later. These are called 'poor responders'. This study wants to find out why this happens by looking at differences in how people feel full after eating, how their body uses energy, their genetics, and how certain gut hormones work. The goal is to identify differences between 'good' and 'poor' responders before surgery, which could help predict who will benefit most and potentially lead to more tailored treatments in the future. The study involves people who have had this surgery and those about to have it.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Imperial College London

Enrolment target

220

Start

01 Aug 2018

Estimated completion

01 Sep 2027

Bariatric Surgery Candidate Obesity, Morbid Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2

What is this study about?

Obesity and type 2 diabetes are serious health conditions that are becoming more common. Weight-loss surgery, often called bariatric surgery, is considered a very effective way to treat both. However, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. While most people lose a significant amount of weight, some don't lose as much as expected, or they might lose weight initially but then regain a lot of it. This study focuses on understanding these differences, specifically why some people are 'poor responders' to the surgery.

The researchers in this study want to investigate certain factors that might explain why some people respond better to weight-loss surgery than others. They're looking into how full people feel after meals, how their bodies burn energy, and if there are specific genetic differences that might make someone more prone to obesity. They are also very interested in 'gut hormones' – natural chemicals released by your gut that help control appetite and digestion. The study aims to see if differences in these hormones, or how sensitive a person is to them, could predict how successful the surgery will be for them.

By understanding these physical differences, the study hopes to find 'markers' that could help doctors predict who will respond well to weight-loss surgery and who might need extra support or different approaches. Ultimately, this research could lead to more personalised treatments for people considering or having weight-loss surgery, ensuring that everyone gets the best possible outcome from their treatment.

Key takeaways

Weight loss surgery helps many, but not everyone equally.
This study explores why some people ('poor responders') struggle with weight loss after surgery.
Researchers are looking at appetite, energy use, genetics, and gut hormones.
The aim is to predict surgery success and tailor treatments.
Participation involves people who have had surgery or are waiting for it.

Who may be eligible?

To take part in this study, you generally need to be between 18 and 70 years old. Both men and women can participate. If you've already had weight-loss surgery for obesity or diabetes, you can be considered if it's been at least a year since your operation. If you're currently waiting to have weight-loss surgery at the Imperial Weight Centre, you might also be eligible.

There are certain reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you have any serious medical or mental health conditions, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or are taking medications that could interfere with the study. You also wouldn't be able to participate if you have very high blood pressure that isn't controlled, or if you've recently taken part in another research study. The study also requires you to be able to understand and respond to psychological questionnaires, so being able to speak English is important for that aspect.

Quick self-check

Are you between 18 and 70 years old?
Have you had weight-loss surgery more than a year ago, or are you waiting for it at Imperial Weight Centre?
Are you able to speak English well enough for questionnaires?
Are you currently pregnant or breastfeeding?
Do you have any serious, uncontrolled medical conditions or very high blood pressure?

This is a guide only — the research team will confirm whether you can take part.

What does participation involve?

The detailed information about what taking part involves isn't fully provided, but typically, studies like this would involve different types of visits and assessments depending on whether you've already had surgery or are awaiting it. This could include questionnaires about how full you feel, tests to measure how your body uses energy after a meal, blood tests to check hormone levels, and possibly genetic tests. You may also need to attend follow-up appointments. The duration of your participation would depend on which part of the study you are involved in. All procedures and tests will be fully explained before you agree to take part.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in research studies doesn't offer direct medical treatment, but it contributes to valuable medical knowledge that could help future patients. Potential benefits include gaining a deeper understanding of your own health (though results won't be used for direct medical advice), and receiving regular health monitoring related to the study. Risks might include the discomfort of blood tests or feeling hungry or full due to specific meal plans, as well as the time commitment required. There's always a risk of unexpected side effects with any medical test or procedure. Your safety is paramount, and any potential risks will be thoroughly explained. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time without needing to give a reason, and this will not affect your routine medical care.

Locations (1)

Imperial College London
London, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'bariatric surgery'?

Bariatric surgery is a type of operation that helps people lose a large amount of weight, often by making changes to the digestive system.

What does 'poor responder' mean in this study?

A 'poor responder' is someone who doesn't lose as much weight as expected after bariatric surgery, or who regains a lot of weight they initially lost.

What are 'gut hormones'?

Gut hormones are natural chemicals produced by your digestive system that help control your appetite, how full you feel, and how your body processes food.

Will taking part in this study affect my standard medical care?

No, your participation in this research study will not affect the medical care you receive from your doctors.

What is the main goal of this study?

The main goal is to understand why some people respond differently to weight-loss surgery, hoping to improve future treatments and predictions of who will benefit most.

How to find out more

Kleopatra Alexiadou, PhD

k.alexiadou@imperial.ac.uk +442033138038 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.