Exploring how GDF15 affects obesity and diabetes
Official title: Novel aspects of Gdf15 biology and function
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11046110 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called GDF15 might help manage weight and improve insulin sensitivity in people with obesity and type 2 diabetes, even without losing weight, to find new ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | February 25, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $659,199 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK138967-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046110 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from obesity or type 2 diabetes who may benefit from improved metabolic regulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have obesity or type 2 diabetes may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF15), a cytokine linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes, in regulating body weight and improving insulin sensitivity. The study aims to understand how GDF15 functions in the body, particularly its effects on glucose metabolism and energy expenditure, independent of weight loss. By using animal models, researchers will explore the mechanisms through which GDF15 may help mitigate the progression of these conditions, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve insulin sensitivity and aid in weight management for patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with GDF15 in animal models, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jurczak, Michael J. — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Jurczak, Michael J.
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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.