How fat cells produce glutamine during breastfeeding

Adipocyte glutamine production and lactation

['FUNDING_R21'] · RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J. · NIH-10650377

This study is looking at how fat cells help make glutamine, a key nutrient in breast milk, to see how it affects the milk and the health of newborns, which could lead to better support for babies during breastfeeding.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J. (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PISCATAWAY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10650377 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of fat cells in producing glutamine, an important amino acid found in breast milk, particularly during lactation. By using a specialized mouse model, researchers will measure how much glutamine is produced by these fat cells and how it affects the milk's composition and the health of newborns. The study aims to understand the relationship between diet, fat cell function, and glutamine synthesis, which could have implications for improving neonatal health. Through advanced techniques like stable isotope tracing, the research will provide insights into the metabolic processes involved in lactation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are lactating women who may benefit from enhanced nutritional support during breastfeeding.

Not a fit: Patients who are not lactating or those who do not have infants may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved nutritional strategies for breastfeeding mothers, enhancing the health of their infants.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results regarding the role of amino acids in milk composition and neonatal health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

PISCATAWAY, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.