How fat cells communicate in heart and metabolic diseases
Official title: Extracellular vesicles from adipocytes in cardiometabolic disease
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11048594 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny particles released by fat cells to see how they affect heart and metabolic problems, especially in people with obesity, with the hope of finding new ways to treat issues like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | June 17, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $464,985 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK137791-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11048594 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with obesity or related metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how extracellular vesicles released by fat cells (adipocytes) influence heart and metabolic diseases, particularly in the context of obesity. The study focuses on understanding the role of these vesicles in transmitting signals that can lead to inflammation and insulin resistance, which are common issues in obesity. By examining the molecular content of these vesicles, researchers aim to uncover new mechanisms of disease progression and potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative treatments for conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating obesity-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the field of extracellular vesicles in metabolic regulation is still emerging, preliminary studies have shown promising results in understanding their role in disease.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Crewe, Clair — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Crewe, Clair
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.