How adiponectin affects immune cells and metabolism in obesity
Official title: Adiponectin signaling and macrophage function
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11092798 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called adiponectin helps manage inflammation and insulin sensitivity in people with belly fat, aiming to find new ways to treat conditions like type 2 diabetes.
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 | August 22, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $520,199 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134637-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092798 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults with abdominal obesity or those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without abdominal obesity or those who do not have metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of adiponectin, a protein involved in regulating inflammation and insulin sensitivity, particularly in the context of abdominal obesity. It focuses on understanding how adiponectin signaling influences macrophage function and metabolic balance, especially in visceral fat tissues. The study aims to clarify the mechanisms by which adiponectin can mitigate inflammation and insulin resistance, which are critical factors in the development of type 2 diabetes. By examining specific genetic expressions and their effects on immune responses, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic targets for obesity-related metabolic disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve metabolic health and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes in individuals with obesity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding adiponectin's role in metabolic health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dong, Lily Q — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Dong, Lily Q
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.