How fat cells send RNA messages that change metabolism
Extracellular vesicle-dependent RNA signaling in metabolism
This work looks at how tiny packages released by fat cells carry RNA messages that can change metabolism in people with adult-onset diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11182665 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If I were involved, researchers would track how RNAs are packaged into tiny particles called extracellular vesicles (EVs) by fat cells and how those EVs deliver RNA into other cells. They will use laboratory biochemical tests and genetic tools such as CRISPR to change or remove specific proteins thought to help EVs fuse with target cells. The team will measure whether blocking or altering these proteins stops RNA delivery and changes metabolic signals relevant to adult-onset diabetes. This pilot lab project aims to identify proteins that could become targets for future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future related studies would be adults with adult-onset (type 2) diabetes or insulin resistance who are interested in contributing samples or participating in translational research.
Not a fit: People expecting an immediate new treatment or direct clinical benefit should not expect to be helped now because this is early laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal new biological targets for therapies that improve insulin action or metabolic control in type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have shown RNAs can travel in EVs and alter recipient cells, but directly proving the role of EV fusion proteins in metabolic responses is a newer and less-tested step.
Where this research is happening
Boulder, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado — Boulder, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shen, Jingshi — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Shen, Jingshi
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.