NIH-funded research P01 program project

How exercise affects brain signals that control metabolism and energy balance

Official title: CNS Mechanisms Linking Exercise Training with Energy Balance and Metabolism

Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10677755 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how exercise helps our bodies manage sugar and weight by exploring how signals from the brain and body work together, and it's aimed at finding new ways to help people with metabolic issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project startSeptember 20, 2019
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$1,919,189
NIH project number5P01DK119130-05
Project IDNIH-10677755 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes or obesity who may benefit from improved metabolic regulation through exercise.

Less likely to help

Patients who are not affected by metabolic disorders or those who cannot engage in exercise may not receive benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between exercise and metabolic health by examining how the brain and peripheral signals influence feeding and glucose regulation. Using specialized genetic mouse models, the team aims to uncover the mechanisms through which exercise improves insulin sensitivity and alters body composition. The study focuses on specific brain circuits and their role in mediating the effects of exercise on metabolism. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to provide insights into potential therapeutic strategies for metabolic disorders.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for obesity and diabetes by enhancing our understanding of how exercise influences metabolism.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the metabolic benefits of exercise, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Ut Southwestern Medical Center
    Dallas, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Elmquist, Joel K. — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
  • Study coordinator: Elmquist, Joel K.

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.