NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

A system to measure energy expenditure and metabolism in humans

Official title: Indirect calorimetry system for research in human metabolism

Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10853594 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is all about getting a new, high-tech system to better understand how our bodies use energy, especially for people dealing with diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic issues, so we can improve treatments and health outcomes.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project startSeptember 1, 2024
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$1,547,000
NIH project number1S10OD036278-01
Project IDNIH-10853594 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with metabolic disorders such as diabetes or obesity who may benefit from more accurate assessments of their energy expenditure.

Less likely to help

Patients without metabolic disorders or those not seeking metabolic health interventions may not receive direct benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on acquiring an indirect calorimetry system to enhance the understanding of human metabolism, particularly in relation to diabetes, obesity, and other chronic metabolic diseases. The system will allow for precise measurement of energy expenditure by analyzing gas exchange, specifically oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production, in a controlled environment. This advanced technology aims to replace outdated equipment that has limited researchers' ability to conduct comprehensive metabolic studies. By improving measurement accuracy, the research will support various ongoing studies and interventions in metabolic health.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of metabolic diseases, potentially enhancing treatment options for patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research utilizing indirect calorimetry has shown significant success in advancing our understanding of metabolism, indicating that this approach is both established and effective.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Alabama at Birmingham
    Birmingham, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Gower, Barbara a — University of Alabama at Birmingham
  • Study coordinator: Gower, Barbara a

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.