Exploring how a hormone from fat tissue helps build muscle

Investigating Isthmin as an adipose-to-muscle messenger that promotes muscle protein synthesis

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-11224519

This study is looking at a hormone called Isthmin-1, which comes from fat tissue, to see how it helps build muscle, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with diabetes and other conditions that cause muscle loss.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11224519 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of Isthmin-1, a hormone secreted by fat tissue, in promoting muscle protein synthesis. By understanding how this hormone facilitates communication between adipose tissue and muscle, the study aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies for conditions like diabetes that lead to muscle loss. The research employs advanced techniques in endocrinology, muscle biology, and bioinformatics, utilizing genetic mouse models to explore the mechanisms of muscle growth regulation. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative treatments for muscle atrophy and metabolic disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing muscle atrophy or metabolic disorders, particularly those related to obesity or diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues related to muscle loss or metabolic dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent muscle loss and improve metabolic health in patients with conditions like diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting adipokines for metabolic disease treatment, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Davis, 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.
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.