What is the aim of the study?

Taste is essential for the preference of certain foods and therefore also determines calorie intake. Previous studies have shown that pathological obesity is associated with changes in taste perception and a loss of taste buds on the tongue. The aim of this project is to find out why this happens, what changes the taste cells and whether there is a connection with eating behavior. The study should help to use healthy eating behavior as a preventive and therapeutic measure for the treatment of obesity.

Who can participate?

• We are looking for the following people:
• Men and women of normal weight or obese (severe overweight)
• Between the ages of 18 and 69

The following exclusion criteria apply:

• Suffering from a serious illness (e.g. cancer, Alzheimer's disease, kidney or liver disease)
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Completion of a systemic therapy with the intake of glucocorticoids

What happens in this study?

The following examinations are carried out:

• Determination of body measurements (weight, height, BMI, etc.)
• Measurement of body composition (bioimpedance analysis)
• Measurement of insulin sensitivity (oral glucose tolerance test)
• Taste sensitivity tests
• Odor screening
• Blood tests
• Determination of the density of taste buds
• Collection of saliva samples and tongue swabs
• Collection of a stool sample
• Sampling of 6-8 taste buds
• Questionnaires

How much time is required and what is the remuneration?

The examinations take place over two days (total duration approx. 5 hours). In addition to a comprehensive medical check-up, you will receive an expense allowance of 50€ and a small breakfast on day 1.