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.