How brain cells regulate energy balance on a high-fat diet
Official title: Astrocytic regulation of energy balance on high-fat diet
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11092838 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain brain cells called astrocytes help manage energy and food intake when we eat a high-fat diet, using special mice to see what happens without a specific receptor; the goal is to find new ways to treat obesity and related health issues that could help people like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | August 9, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $731,394 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134650-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092838 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in controlling energy balance when exposed to a high-fat diet. By studying genetically modified mice that lack a specific receptor in astrocytes, researchers aim to understand how these cells influence food intake and energy expenditure. The study focuses on the signaling pathways activated by brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and how they affect obesity and metabolism. Patients may benefit from insights into new treatments for obesity and related metabolic disorders based on these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing obesity and improving metabolic health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in energy balance, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in obesity treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xu, Baoji — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Xu, Baoji
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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.