Genetic Predisposition to Food Cue Reactivity in Children

The Relation of Genetic Factors, Food Cues, and Self-Regulation With Excess Consumption and Adiposity in Children

This study assesses the associations between genetic factors, food-cue-related neural reactivity, self-regulatory capacity, eating in the absence of hunger (EAH), and adiposity gain in children.

The investigators will assess the associations between genetic factors, food-cue-related neural reactivity, eating in the absence of hunger (EAH) in response to food cues, and adiposity gain in children. They will also determine whether self-regulatory capacity modifies these associations. The genetic factors explored specifically include FTO, MC4R, polymorphisms in genes involved in dopaminergic pathways, and a composite genetic risk score built from genome-wide obesity-related loci.

[3/14/2020]: Study recruitment temporarily halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic

Inclusion Criteria:

• English fluency
• Willingness to participate in all study visits

Exclusion Criteria:

• Relevant food allergies or dietary restrictions
• Metal in or on the body
• Claustrophobia
• Psychiatric and neurological disorders
• Relative in the study
• Appetite- or attention-altering medications or disorders