Exploring how breastfeeding affects metabolism and health
Official title: Harnessing Cells from Human Milk; Linking Lactation to Metabolism
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11141274 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how breastfeeding affects the health of mothers and their children, especially for moms who are dealing with obesity or diabetes, and it aims to find ways to improve breastfeeding for those women.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $248,999 |
| NIH project number | 4R00HD107496-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11141274 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are breastfeeding mothers, particularly those who are experiencing obesity or diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not breastfeeding or do not have concerns related to obesity or diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between breastfeeding and metabolic health in mothers and children, particularly focusing on how maternal obesity and diabetes can negatively impact lactation outcomes. By analyzing cells derived from human milk, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that link lactation to metabolism. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to study these milk-derived cells, which resemble mammary epithelial cells, to better understand lactation biology and identify potential interventions for improving breastfeeding outcomes in women with obesity or diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved breastfeeding outcomes and better metabolic health for mothers and their children.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding lactation biology through innovative approaches, suggesting that this study builds on established methods.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martin Carli, Jayne Frances — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Martin Carli, Jayne Frances
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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.