How follistatin affects fat metabolism and heart disease progression
Official title: Follistatin regulation of energy and lipid metabolism during progression of atherosclerosis
Funded at Charles R. Drew University of Med & Sci · NIH-11056873 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called follistatin might help improve fat metabolism and lower cholesterol, which could be beneficial for people at risk of heart disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Charles R. Drew University of Med & Sci NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | May 10, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $142,373 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM145591-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056873 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults with dyslipidemia or those at risk for cardiovascular diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues with lipid metabolism or cardiovascular health may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of follistatin in regulating fat metabolism and its potential impact on heart disease, specifically atherosclerosis. The study focuses on how follistatin can promote the browning of adipose tissue, which may help lower cholesterol levels and protect against cardiovascular diseases. Using animal models, researchers will explore the effects of follistatin on fat cells and its influence on lipid levels in the body. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing dyslipidemia and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve fat metabolism and reduce the risk of heart disease in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using adipocyte browning as a therapeutic target for cardiovascular diseases, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Charles R. Drew University of Med & Sci
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Rajan — Charles R. Drew University of Med & Sci
- Study coordinator: Singh, Rajan
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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.