Controlling the growth of fat cells
Cell cycle control of adipogenesis
This research looks at how our bodies make new fat cells, which could help us understand and manage obesity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11118997 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
When existing fat cells become too large, it can lead to health problems associated with obesity. This project explores how our bodies create new fat cells, a process called adipogenesis, as a way to potentially counteract these harmful effects. Researchers are focusing on specific 'control switches' within cells, known as p21 and p27, that determine how many times a young fat cell divides before it matures. By learning how these switches work together, we aim to discover ways to encourage the body to produce more healthy new fat cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients, but its findings could eventually benefit individuals living with obesity or those at risk for metabolic health problems.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by obesity or related metabolic conditions would likely not see direct benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating obesity and its related metabolic issues by promoting the healthy creation of new fat cells.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that manipulating cell cycle inhibitors can increase fat cell creation in animal models, suggesting a promising direction for this research.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Teruel, Mary N — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Teruel, Mary N
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.