Modulating feeding behavior in obesity: from brain lesions to non-invasive brain stimulation targets

Introduction

Altered feeding behaviors impair physical and psychosocial health and may lead to overweight or obesity. Obesity is a major global health challenge, but current treatments are either ineffective in the long-term or carry important risks. Hence, novel therapeutic approaches are needed.

Project Aims

The main ERC StG aims to explore the neural basis of eating patterns by investigating post-ingestive reinforcement of food-seeking behavior. In that context, we are studying the contribution of gut-brain communication towards activity in brain circuits controlling feeding behavior.

Neuroanatomy and Dysfunctional Behaviors

Another strategy to clarify the neuroanatomy and neural correlates underlying dysfunctional human behaviors has been to study their occurrence when associated with a brain insult. We have used this approach for neuropsychiatric disorders and believe it may also be applicable to feeding behavior.

Weight Regulation and Brain Lesions

Indeed, changes in weight regulation concurrent with brain lesions have been described, raising the question of whether such lesions follow a particular distribution in the brain or impact specific functional networks. Several neuroimaging analysis methods can be used to explore if specific brain areas and/or connectivity networks are associated with specific lesional syndromes.

Therapeutic Strategies

In addition, these methods have also been proposed to offer the opportunity for the development of novel strategies for therapeutic brain stimulation, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

TMS Protocol

In this project, we aim to identify TMS targets that potentially modulate feeding behavior, supported by lesion topography and/or connectivity networks involving lesions associated with changes in feeding behavior and weight regulation.

Implementation

We will then conduct a TMS protocol targeting the identified regions to modulate feeding behavior in patients with obesity.

Conclusion

We are convinced that FoodConnect will contribute to the understanding of the pathophysiology of obesity and the development of innovative therapeutic approaches for such a highly prevalent and socially impactful condition.