NIH-funded research R01 grant

Exploring a new factor that affects muscle performance and metabolism

Official title: Identifying a novel player in skeletal muscle performance and metabolism

Funded at Ohio University Athens · NIH-11057608 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at a protein called FSP27 to see how it affects muscle strength and insulin use, which could help us find better ways to improve muscle function and manage conditions like diabetes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio University Athens
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Athens, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2024
Project endFebruary 29, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$589,326
NIH project number5R01DK138635-02
Project IDNIH-11057608 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing metabolic disorders, such as adult-onset diabetes, who may benefit from improved muscle function.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions unrelated to muscle performance or metabolic regulation may not receive any benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a specific protein, Fat Specific Protein 27 (FSP27), in regulating muscle function and insulin signaling. By studying both human muscle samples and a specially designed mouse model, the researchers aim to uncover how FSP27 influences muscle strength, endurance, and metabolic health. The approach includes analyzing muscle performance metrics and understanding the molecular pathways involved in fat handling within muscle tissue. This could lead to insights into how to improve muscle function and manage metabolic diseases.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing muscle performance and improving insulin sensitivity in patients, potentially benefiting those with metabolic diseases.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of muscle proteins in metabolic health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Ohio University Athens
    Athens, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Puri, Vishwajeet — Ohio University Athens
  • Study coordinator: Puri, Vishwajeet

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.