How fat and lymphatic systems interact in obesity and lymphedema
Official title: Lymphatic-adipocyte interactions in obesity and lymphedema
Funded at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-11062379 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how fat tissue and the lymphatic system work together, especially for people dealing with obesity and lymphedema, to find better ways to manage these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $164,484 |
| NIH project number | 5K08DK132413-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11062379 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from obesity or lymphedema, particularly those who have undergone lymph node surgery.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without obesity or lymphedema, or those not affected by lymphatic dysfunction, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions between fat tissue and the lymphatic system, particularly in the context of obesity and lymphedema. It aims to understand how these systems communicate and regulate each other, especially when one is dysfunctional. By examining specific cell interactions and utilizing advanced techniques like single-nucleus RNA sequencing, the study seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to obesity-related complications and lymphedema. The findings could lead to new insights into how to manage these conditions more effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for obesity and lymphedema, enhancing patient quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between adipose tissue and lymphatics, indicating that this area of study has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Westcott, Gregory — Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Westcott, Gregory
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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.