How age-related immune changes affect belly fat and insulin resistance
Inflammation and insulin resistance in aging
['FUNDING_R01'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-11241964
Researchers are exploring whether changes in specific immune cells that come with middle age make belly fat burn less energy and lead to insulin resistance.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11241964 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses mouse models and cell experiments to study how conventional T cells and regulatory T cells in fat tissue change with middle age and affect “browning” of white fat. Pilot work showed regulatory T cells increase but become dysfunctional with age while conventional T cells rise and block fat browning via cell contact and secreted signals. The team will probe molecular drivers such as STAT1 and manipulate immune cell populations to see how these changes alter fat metabolism and whole-body insulin sensitivity. The goal is to identify immune-related mechanisms that could be targeted to restore healthier fat function in aging.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Middle-aged adults with increased visceral (belly) fat or early insulin resistance would be the most relevant group for future patient studies.
Not a fit: Young healthy people without metabolic problems or individuals with autoimmune type 1 diabetes are unlikely to benefit from findings specific to age-related fat inflammation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new immune-targeted treatments to reduce age-related belly fat and improve insulin sensitivity.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal studies have shown immune cells can change fat inflammation and metabolism, but the specific regulatory T cell dysfunction pattern in aging and its impact on fat browning is a newer finding.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WU, HUAIZHU — BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: WU, HUAIZHU
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.