Not yet recruitingOBSERVATIONAL

Study of the Hypothalamic Microglial Response as a Function of a Meal's Lipid Content in Humans. A Single-center Prospective Cohort Study in Healthy Male Subjects

This study explores how the brain reacts to different types of meals, especially focusing on a part called the hypothalamus, which helps control appetite. Researchers are trying to understand why some meals might cause a short-term immune response in the brain, and how this could link to weight issues like obesity. They will compare how healthy men's brains respond to a standard meal versus a high-fat meal, using special brain scans and blood tests. The aim is to learn more about the body's natural ways of controlling how much we eat and how energy is used, which could lead to better ways of managing weight and health problems connected to it.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Sponsor

Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Dijon

Enrolment target

Start

01 May 2026

Estimated completion

01 May 2028

Pathophysiology

What is this study about?

You might have noticed that after eating, your body, and sometimes even your brain, feels different. This study is trying to understand these reactions better. Doctors and scientists know that eating can trigger a temporary immune response in your body, even if you're perfectly healthy. This is normal and can even be helpful for things like managing blood sugar. However, when people consistently eat too much, especially fatty or sugary foods, this normally helpful response can become harmful over time, potentially leading to health problems like too much fat storage, difficulty using sugar for energy, and damage to blood vessels.

Recent research in animals has shown that fatty meals can cause a specific immune reaction in a part of the brain called the hypothalamus. This area is like the body's control centre for appetite and how energy is used. When this reaction happens after a high-fat meal, it seems to tell the body to feel full and eat less afterwards. This study wants to see if the same thing happens in humans. Knowing more about how our brains react to different foods could help us understand how our bodies manage hunger and energy, and why some people struggle with their weight.

So, this study is about checking if this brain reaction – which involves tiny brain cells called microglia changing their shape – also occurs in healthy men after they eat different types of meals. The findings from this research could be a step towards finding new ways to help people better manage their eating habits and overall health.

Key takeaways

The study explores how different meals affect a part of the brain controlling appetite.
It aims to understand the link between diet, brain responses, and weight management.
Healthy men will have brain scans and blood tests after eating specific meals.
Findings could help develop new strategies for tackling obesity and related health issues.
Participation will involve clinic visits, blood samples, MRI scans, and questionnaires.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for healthy men to take part. You need to be at least 20 years old and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) that falls within the healthy or moderately overweight range (between 18.5 and 30).

There are several reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you have diabetes (type 1 or type 2), a long-term inflammatory condition, or a mental health condition, you wouldn't be eligible. Also, if you're taking certain medications, especially anti-inflammatory drugs or those that affect your brain, you wouldn't be able to participate.

Anyone with a pacemaker or other medical device that prevents them from having an MRI scan, or those with known allergies to common foods, also can't take part. The study is currently only open to French-speaking participants and those who can legally give their consent to participate.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a man, aged 20 or older?
Do you have a BMI between 18.5 and 30?
Do you have any conditions like diabetes or long-term inflammation?
Are you able to have an MRI (no pacemakers or metal implants)?
Are you currently taking any anti-inflammatory or brain-affecting medications?
Do you speak French and understand study information in French?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will have several assessments. This includes providing blood samples, having special brain MRI scans (these are done without any dyes and after you've fasted, and then again after you've eaten a meal). You'll also complete questionnaires and have your body composition measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis, which is a simple way to estimate body fat and muscle. The total duration of your participation will be explained in detail by the study team, but it won't involve taking any new medications.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study may not directly benefit your health, but it will help us understand more about how the brain controls appetite and energy use, which could help future patients. The risks are generally low, mainly linked to having blood taken and the MRI scans. MRI scans are safe but can be noisy and feel confined. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Chu Dijon Bourgogne
Verified postcode
Dijon, France

Common questions

What is the hypothalamus?

It's a small but very important part of your brain that helps control many body functions, including hunger, thirst, and body temperature.

What are microglia?

These are special immune cells found in the brain that clear up waste and protect brain cells. They can also play a role in inflammation.

What is an MRI scan?

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a type of scan that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of organs and structures inside your body, including your brain.

Will I have to eat anything special?

Yes, you will have meals either with a standard fat content or a high fat content as part of the study measurements.

Is there any radiation from the MRI?

No, MRI scans do not use X-rays or any other form of radiation, so they are generally considered very safe.

How to find out more

Vincent SCHNEIDER

vincent.schneider@chu-dijon.fr 03 80 29 30 89 Official trial record

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