How Fat Cells Sense Forces to Burn Energy
Role of Biomechanical Interfaces Created by Focal Adhesion Kinase in Catecholamine Signaling
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY · NIH-11189733
This research explores how fat cells respond to physical forces and chemical signals to burn calories, which could help us understand metabolism.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BERKELEY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11189733 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our bodies contain special fat cells, known as brown and beige fat, that can burn calories to produce heat, a process called thermogenesis. This project aims to understand the intricate ways these cells sense physical forces and respond to chemical signals, like those from adrenaline. We are particularly interested in how these mechanical and chemical cues work together to control the fat cells' ability to burn energy. By uncovering these fundamental mechanisms, we hope to identify new pathways that could be targeted to boost metabolism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to adults interested in the basic science of metabolism, particularly how fat cells burn energy.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatments or direct participation in a human trial would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for boosting metabolism and potentially treating conditions like obesity or type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: The research builds upon the team's prior successful work establishing biomechanical signals as important drivers of brown fat function.
Where this research is happening
BERKELEY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY — BERKELEY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STAHL, ANDREAS — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY
- Study coordinator: STAHL, ANDREAS
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.