B cell estrogen signaling and menopause-related metabolic problems
Official title: The role of B cell estrogen signaling in menopause-associated metabolic dysfunction
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11388595 · Data updated 2026-11-12
How the loss of estrogen after menopause affects fat tissue and metabolic health through B cells, and whether this pathway could be targeted to help with diabetes risks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2019 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $257,400 |
| NIH project number | 5P20GM125528-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-11388595 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Women in the peri- or postmenopausal period who are at risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes may benefit from future therapies
✕Less likely to help
Results may not directly benefit individuals who are not experiencing menopause-related metabolic changes
What this research studies
This project looks at how estrogen receptors on B cells influence fat tissue inflammation and metabolism after menopause, using evidence from mice and human biology to understand weight gain and insulin resistance. It aims to uncover whether B cell signaling driven by estrogen contributes to menopause-related changes in body fat and glucose metabolism. The study could point to new strategies to prevent or treat type 2 diabetes in peri- and postmenopausal women. Participants may be involved through future translational steps building on the findings from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to new approaches to reduce menopause-associated obesity and improve insulin sensitivity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies in animals suggest B cells influence obesity and insulin resistance, but translating this to menopause-specific human biology is still emerging
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Castillo-Castrejon, Marisol — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Castillo-Castrejon, Marisol
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.