How a specific protein affects inflammation and obesity-related health issues
Official title: Cellular mechanisms of NLRP3 activation by ALCAT1 in diet-induced obesity
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11043241 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called ALCAT1 affects inflammation linked to obesity, with the hope of finding new ways to help people manage obesity-related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | April 19, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $528,581 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK133463-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043241 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing obesity or related metabolic conditions, particularly those with insulin resistance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how a protein called ALCAT1 influences the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes, which are involved in inflammation related to obesity. By understanding the mechanisms behind this activation, the study aims to uncover how diet-induced obesity triggers chronic inflammation and insulin resistance. The researchers will explore the role of prion-like proteins and their potential impact on metabolic diseases. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for obesity-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing obesity-related inflammation and metabolic disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific pathway being investigated is novel, there is existing research indicating that targeting inflammasome activation can lead to significant improvements in metabolic health.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shi, Yuguang — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Shi, Yuguang
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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.