Computer search for drug targets linked to obesity genes
Virtual systemic identification of drug targets of obesity candidate genes
Using computer analyses to find drug targets connected to genes that influence body weight so future medicines may help people with obesity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11286809 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If I have obesity, this project uses computer models to link genes associated with obesity to proteins that drugs can act on. Researchers will combine human genetic information, brain appetite pathways, and drug databases to predict targets that might lower appetite without causing harmful mood or anxiety side effects. The work is done virtually at Vanderbilt and is meant to guide lab tests and later clinical trials rather than provide a treatment now. Findings could steer drug development toward safer, more effective medicines.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with obesity who are interested in contributing genetic data or who might enroll in future clinical trials based on these discoveries would be the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: Anyone needing an immediate weight-loss treatment or those not willing to share genetic or health data are unlikely to benefit directly from this grant's work now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new, safer drug targets that lead to better medical treatments for obesity with fewer psychiatric side effects.
How similar studies have performed: Previous computer-based target-finding has identified promising candidates, but translating those into safe, effective obesity drugs has been difficult and remains a work in progress.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, United States
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Yingchang — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Lu, Yingchang
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 below.