How fat-binding proteins affect appetite signals
Molecular Drivers of FABP-mediated Endocannabinoid Signaling for Appetite Regulation
Researchers are exploring how proteins that carry fat-like signaling molecules influence hunger and weight for people with obesity and adult-onset diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | City College of New York NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143298 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at how endogenous cannabinoids — natural fat-like molecules that help control appetite — are handled by fatty acid–binding proteins (FABPs). In lab experiments at near-physiological levels, the team will measure how tightly these molecules bind, where they are sent inside cells, how they are broken down, and how they change shape when they interact. The work combines biochemical assays and insights from animal models to map the molecular interactions that can promote either lean or obese outcomes. The research is laboratory-based at City College of New York and includes training for scientists at multiple career stages.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This grant is laboratory-focused and is not enrolling patients, so people with adult-onset diabetes are not being recruited for participation.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments should not expect direct benefit from this basic lab research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new molecular targets to help control appetite and weight and eventually inform better treatments for obesity and type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have linked endocannabinoid levels to obesity, but detailed mapping of FABP–endocannabinoid interactions at physiological concentrations is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- City College of New York — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stark, Ruth E. — City College of New York
- Study coordinator: Stark, Ruth E.
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.