Effects of GLP-1 receptor activation on brain activity related to metabolism
Official title: Acute and chronic effects of GLP-1R agonism on NPY/AgRP neuronal activity
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11133670 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a type of medication called GLP-1 receptor agonists affects certain brain cells that help control weight and blood sugar, which could lead to better ways to manage diabetes and obesity for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | August 19, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $410,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R56DK135501-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11133670 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with diabetes or obesity who may benefit from GLP-1 receptor agonist therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have metabolic disorders or those who are not candidates for GLP-1 therapies may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists influence neuronal activity in the brain, particularly focusing on the NPY/AgRP neurons that play a role in regulating body weight and blood sugar levels. By utilizing advanced techniques such as chemogenetics and calcium imaging, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms through which GLP-1 affects metabolism and appetite control. The findings could provide valuable insights into how these treatments can be optimized for better management of diabetes and obesity. Patients may benefit from a deeper understanding of how GLP-1 therapies work in the brain and their potential effects on weight and glucose regulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for diabetes and obesity by enhancing the effectiveness of GLP-1-based therapies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with GLP-1 receptor agonists in managing diabetes and obesity, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Kevin W — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Williams, Kevin W
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.