Obesity, Type 2 Diabetes, and Brain Health: The MetaBrain Study

Brain Health Across the Metabolic Continuum in Youth at Risk for T2D

Protocol Description

The goal of this observational study is to determine how metabolic factors during neurodevelopment set the stage for potentially profound long-term impacts on the brain, including its structure and functions. Researchers will seek to disentangle the relationship of key features of youth-onset type 2 diabetes (T2D) risk, such as obesity, with intermediary physiologic changes that pose a risk for the brain, such as insulin resistance, inflammation, beta-cell dysfunction and dysglycemia. Given the aggressive nature of T2D progression, complications in other organ systems, and that progression occurs when the brain is undergoing dramatic developmental processes, researchers anticipate that the results of this investigation may have significant clinical implications or may provide guidance for future studies.

Eligibility Criteria

Subject to certain exclusion criteria, this study is enrolling participants ages 12 through 17, of both genders who are normal weight or obese, with normal glucose tolerance or dysglycemia.
Boys and Girls: Ages 12 through 17

Requirements

Following an initial screening visit, participants will be seen for baseline tests and follow-up testing 21 months later. Testing will include measures of insulin resistance and secretion, body composition, and systemic inflammation. Additionally, brain structure and function will be assessed through MRI scans and cognitive tests.
Visits: 2 to 3
Duration: 21 months

Status: Open to Enrollment

Source(s) of Support

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Primary Investigator

Silva Arslanian, MD

Contact Information

For more information about the study or enrollment, please contact:
Angela Akar, Study Coordinator
412-692-5928