Grant: Operating Grant

The aim of this study is to explore autonomic nervous system (ANS) function in childhood obesity. Canadian childhood obesity rates continue to rise with 8 percent of children (2-17 years) currently obese. Much research has explored factors responsible for the development of obesity, yet few effective treatments exist. This fact highlights the complexity of the pathogenesis of obesity and underscores the need for novel research. The ANS controls essential functions like breathing, heart rate, digestion, body temperature and hormone levels. Evidence suggests that ANS dysfunction is associated with adult obesity and may play a role in the development of obesity-related complications. The specific characteristics of ANS dysfunction in childhood obesity, however, are not clear. The link between ANS dysfunction and obesity-related metabolic complications is also unknown. We will characterize ANS dysfunction in obese children and examine the relationship between ANS dysfunction, body fat distribution and metabolic profile. To further understand this relationship, we will compare obese children to children with a unique model of obesity and ANS dysfunction called Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). PWS is the most common genetic form of childhood obesity. ANS dysfunction in PWS is suggested by findings of low blood sugar, abnormal sleep, body temperature instability, reduced pain sensitivity, and sudden death. Obese PWS children may also have a lower risk of developing obesity-related diseases (type 2 diabetes), than other obese children. Differences in ANS function might explain these metabolic differences between obese children with and without PWS. The study will measure ANS function, total and abdominal body fat and hormone levels in obese children. These results will be compared to those of children with PWS. Identification of the specific ANS dysfunction in childhood obesity and PWS could lead to novel therapies for both conditions to improve quality of life