How beta-carotene affects vitamin A production related to heart disease and obesity
Effects of beta-carotene on vitamin A production in atherosclerosis and obesity
This study is looking at how beta-carotene, a natural pigment found in foods like carrots, might help produce vitamin A and affect heart disease and obesity, using a special mouse model to see if it can reduce fat buildup and inflammation, which could lead to new treatments for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10563152 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of beta-carotene, a natural pigment, in the production of vitamin A and its effects on atherosclerosis and obesity. Using a specially developed mouse model that mimics human conditions, the study aims to understand how beta-carotene can influence lipid accumulation and inflammation, which are key factors in these diseases. By examining the benefits of beta-carotene ingestion, the research seeks to uncover potential mechanisms that could lead to new treatments for heart disease and obesity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for atherosclerosis or obesity, particularly those interested in dietary interventions.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have risk factors for heart disease or obesity may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary recommendations or treatments that help prevent or manage heart disease and obesity.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach using this novel mouse model is relatively new, previous research has shown that dietary components like beta-carotene can influence health outcomes, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Champaign, United States
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign — Champaign, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Amengual Terrasa, Jaime — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Amengual Terrasa, Jaime
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.