The Section on Growth and Obesity is currently running the following clinical trials. Learn about Studies Seeking Participants.

19-CH-0026: Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study Plus Open Label Extension of Diazoxide Choline Controlled-Release Tablet (DCCR, Soleno Therapeutics, Inc.) in Patients with Prader-Willi Syndrome.

The medication diazoxide has been used for many years to lower insulin concentrations in people with hyperinsulinemia. This randomized controlled trial determines if a long-acting version of diazoxide can safely reduce hunger and body weight in children and adults with the Prader-Willi Syndrome.

17-CH-0078: Setmelanotide (RM-493; Rhythm Pharmaceuticals, Inc.) Phase 2 Open-Label Treatment Trials in Patients with Rare Genetic Disorders of Obesity.

This study examines the effects of an alpha-MSH agonist, setmelanotide, in people with obesity caused by genetic abnormalities in the proximal leptin signaling system.

17-CH-0130: Effects of Interrupting Sedentary Behavior on Metabolic and Cognitive Outcomes in Children.

Excessive time spend in sedentary activities (such as watching TV) is linked to increased body weight and the complications of obesity. This randomized cross-over trial examines effects on glucose homeostasis of interrupting sedentary time with short bouts of moderate physical activity in children who are not overweight and in children who are overweight or obese.

17-CH-0039: Pilot Study of Mobile Attention Training in Overweight Female Adolescents. 

It remains unclear how best to help children and adolescents at-risk for adult obesity avoid weight gain. This project attempts to decrease attentional biases to highly desirable foods using a mobile phone application.

15-CH-0096: Children's Growth and Behavior Study.

This natural history project follows children and adolescents longitudinally over 6 years. It studies metabolic, psychological, and genetic factors that may be important for overeating and obesity.

13-CH-0097: Fat Metabolism and Function-Altering Polymorphisms in MC3R.

Melanocortin receptors are proteins found throughout the body that help send messages between body systems. One such receptor, the melanocortin 3 receptor (MC3R), is important for body weight. Some people who have certain changes in the genetic code for the MC3R that are called “function-altering polymorphisms” are heavier compared to those who do not share the same changes. These polymorphisms are found more often in African Americans than in Caucasians.  The aim of this study is to find out how the presence of two particular polymorphisms may affect fat metabolism (how fat is handled by the body). Up to 400 adults will be screened for genetic changes in the MC3R.