How a brain region controls body weight through nutrient sensing
Body weight control by hypothalamic OGT
This study is looking at how a specific protein in the brain helps control weight and blood sugar levels, which could lead to new treatments for obesity and related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10912799 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) in regulating body weight and blood glucose levels. It focuses on a specific protein, O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT), which helps the VMH sense nutrients and hormones to maintain energy balance. By using advanced techniques like neural tracing and electrophysiological recordings, the study aims to understand how OGT influences fat tissue function and body weight regulation. Patients may benefit from insights into new treatments for obesity and metabolic disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic disorders, particularly those with difficulties in weight management.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing obesity and related metabolic conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the hypothalamus in metabolism, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Xiaoyong — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Yang, Xiaoyong
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 below.