Brown-fat lipids and their mimics for better metabolism
Official title: Investigating the Mechanistic Role of Brown Fat-derived Lipid Mediators and Their Analogs in Metabolic Health
Funded at Joslin Diabetes Center · NIH-11450895 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers are studying small fat-related molecules produced by brown fat to understand how they help with metabolism and may lead to new ways to treat type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Joslin Diabetes Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 26, 2026 |
| Project end | June 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $868,285 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK146036-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11450895 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with or at risk for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome who are able to participate in metabolic studies and interventions related to brown fat activity.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without metabolic disorders or those unable to participate in metabolic studies may see no direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project looks at how bioactive lipids created by brown fat influence energy use and metabolic health in adults with obesity-related conditions. By studying the signaling molecules that arise from brown fat when exposed to cold or exercise, scientists hope to identify lipid mimics that could improve insulin sensitivity and liver and heart health. The work combines human-relevant biology with molecular studies to uncover how these lipids affect fat cells, muscle metabolism, and vascular function. If successful, this could guide the development of new therapies to combat type 2 diabetes and related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new treatments that improve metabolic health and reduce diabetes risk by targeting brown-fat lipid signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research links brown fat activity and specific lipid mediators to better metabolic profiles, supporting potential benefit of this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Joslin Diabetes Center
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tseng, Yu-Hua — Joslin Diabetes Center
- Study coordinator: Tseng, Yu-Hua
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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.