Exploring a new way to target a specific receptor involved in diabetes treatment

Investigation and Targeting of Alternate Binding Site in ERRα

NIH-funded research St. Louis College of Pharmacy · NIH-10810715

This study is looking for new ways to help people with diabetes by finding small molecules that can better target a specific part of a protein involved in inflammation and metabolism, which could lead to improved treatments and fewer complications.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSt. Louis College of Pharmacy NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (St. Louis, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10810715 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the estrogen-related receptor α (ERRα), which plays a significant role in regulating gene expressions linked to inflammation and metabolism in diabetes. The team aims to identify new small molecule agonists that can effectively bind to ERRα, particularly focusing on a newly discovered alternate binding site. By using advanced molecular dynamics simulations, the researchers hope to enhance the potency and selectivity of these agonists, which could lead to better therapeutic options for patients with diabetes. The ultimate goal is to develop more effective treatments that can reduce the severe complications associated with diabetes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients with type 1 diabetes or those who do not have metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective medications for managing diabetes and its complications.

How similar studies have performed: While targeting ERRα is a promising approach, this specific investigation into an alternate binding site is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior research.

Where this research is happening

St. Louis, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.