STAGES Trial: Study of Adiposity, Growth and Endocrine Stages

We propose to conduct a cross-sectional study of 60 participants who are 18-30 years of age to undergo research PET/CT. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships between Brown Adipose Tissue (BAT), the adiponectin/leptin (A/L) ratio, and components of the metabolic syndrome in young adults. This study is part of a larger study aimed at understanding the mechanism of brown adipose tissue as a potential protective factor against metabolic dysfunction.

Inclusion criteria

• Males and females, 18-30 years of age at enrollment, who are obese (BMI greater or equal to 30 kg/m2, weight less than 159 kg) and healthy
• Without medications and endocrine/genetic disorders known to affect weight.
• Participants may have insulin resistance, impaired glucose tolerance, dyslipidemia, or hypertension.

Exclusion criteria

• Anyone who refuses participation.
• A genetic syndrome or other endocrine disorder known to cause obesity (Prader-Willi, Cushing Syndrome, Leptin deficiency, etc.).
• Use of the following medications: psychotropics, sulphonylurea, thiazolidinediones, insulin, glucocorticoids, anti-neoplastic agents, angiotensin receptor blocker, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors.
• Pregnancy or history of pregnancy.
• Active infectious disease
• History of CVD or stroke during the previous 36 months
• Total cholesterol 300 mg/dl, triglycerides 400 mg/dl
• Blood pressure 140/90 mmHg
• Fasting plasma glucose 126 mg/dl.
• Diabetes mellitus, type 1 or 2.