Eating and Feeding Behavior: Exploring Phenotypes and Influencing Outcomes

National Human Genome Research Institute

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

One element of this project focused on iteratively building and evaluating the use of virtual reality technology to teach individuals concepts related to the role of gene-environment interaction in eating behaviors. Data to evaluate the educational materials to be used in this project have been collected in internet-based surveys in several waves; 2 manuscripts are in press, 1 published, and additional manuscript preparation is underway. User testing of the virtual reality experience was completed. Additional stages of this study are ready to begin. In a series of surveys, we explored the influence of exposure to GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs for obesity and diabetes on etiology beliefs about weight, judgments about individuals who use these treatments and stigmatization of this population. This work is done in collaboration with Drs. Stacy Post and Michelle Stock. We have published one paper with several more in press. We are also collaborating on a pediatrics-focused survey on this topic with Dr. Susan Carnell. Other work has included evaluation of parental response to epigenetics-focused information on child obesity risk later in life with Drs. Ferrer and el Toukhy.