How a Western diet affects heart health and obesity
Epigenetic signaling, pathological cardiac hypertrophy and Western diet
This study looks at how a typical Western diet, high in carbs and fats, affects heart health and can lead to obesity-related issues, especially focusing on the early changes in the heart that happen before any symptoms show up.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10593054 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of a Western diet on heart health and the development of obesity-related conditions. It focuses on understanding the early molecular changes in the heart that occur before noticeable symptoms of cardiac dysfunction and metabolic disorders arise. By studying these changes, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that link diet to heart disease and obesity. The approach includes using animal models to simulate the effects of a high carbohydrate and fatty acid diet, which is common in Western diets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who consume a Western diet and are at risk for obesity or heart disease.
Not a fit: Patients who do not consume a Western diet or who have pre-existing severe heart conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing heart disease and obesity linked to dietary habits.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that dietary patterns significantly influence heart health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
College Station, United States
- Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr — College Station, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chang, Jiang — Texas A&m University Health Science Ctr
- Study coordinator: Chang, Jiang
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.