Brain Imaging Study
Researchers at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are conducting a study on brain stimulation to better understand and improve treatment options for behaviors like excessive eating.
Fast Facts
Non-Smokers With a BMI Over 30
21-60 Years Old
Compensation
up to $400
Conducted in
Houston, TX
Study Background
This study uses a noninvasive technique called repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) to study how brain activity relates to health behaviors. Participants will receive personalized brain stimulation while undergoing EEG monitoring, with the goal of developing future treatments for excessive eating.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a noninvasive, FDA-approved technique that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is already approved to treat conditions like depression and smoking cessation. This study is building on that science to explore whether rTMS can also help address behaviors related to obesity, like excessive eating.
Participants in this study will receive brain stimulation tailored to their individual brain responses. The findings could lead to new, personalized approaches for managing health behaviors that affect weight and overall well-being.
Study Background
This study uses a noninvasive technique called repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) to study how brain activity relates to health behaviors. Participants will receive personalized brain stimulation while undergoing EEG monitoring, with the goal of developing future treatments for excessive eating.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a noninvasive, FDA-approved technique that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. It is already approved to treat conditions like depression and smoking cessation. This study is building on that science to explore whether rTMS can also help address behaviors related to obesity, like excessive eating.
Participants in this study will receive brain stimulation tailored to their individual brain responses. The findings could lead to new, personalized approaches for managing health behaviors that affect weight and overall well-being.
Additional Information
The study aims to develop personalized brain stimulation techniques to help people reduce behaviors like excessive eating, using a method called rTMS.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Non-smoker
- Ages 21-60
- BMI > 30 (overweight or obese)
Exclusion Criteria:
- Have not received Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in the last 6 months
- No history of seizure, epilepsy, syncope, fainting episode, or head trauma resulting in loss of consciousness
- No history of myocardial infarction, angina, congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy, stroke, or transient ischemic attack
- Do not have cardiac pacemakers, neural stimulators, implantable defibrillator, implanted medication pumps or sensors, intracardiac lines, or acute, unstable cardiac disease, with intracranial implants (e.g., aneurysm clips, shunts, stimulators, cochlear implants, or electrodes)
- No vision problems left untreated
- No diagnosis of type 1 diabetes
- Not enrolled in a weight loss program
- Do not use cannabis daily
- Not pregnant or breastfeeding
A short phone call will determine your basic eligibility
If eligible, you’ll complete a baseline phone visit
You’ll be scheduled for two in-person visits (each 4–5 hours long)
After each visit, you’ll receive a brief follow-up phone call the next day
EEG and rTMS will be used during the study sessions
Yes. Participants may receive up to $400 in compensation. A parking voucher will also be provided.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.