How gene activity affects energy and liver health in diabetes
Epigenetic Regulation of Mitochondrial Homeostasis and Energy Metabolism
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-11126789
This project looks at how changes in gene activity in the liver contribute to conditions like fatty liver disease and insulin resistance, which are linked to type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11126789 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our bodies have ways to turn genes on and off, which can affect how our liver processes energy and fats. When these processes go awry, it can lead to conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and insulin resistance, both key factors in type 2 diabetes. We are exploring specific gene "switches" in liver cells from both mice and people with NAFLD to understand how they contribute to these conditions. By identifying key regulators of these gene switches, we hope to uncover new ways to address the root causes of these metabolic problems.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work is not directly recruiting patients but focuses on understanding the underlying biology of adult-onset diabetes mellitus and related liver conditions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science investigation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to understand and potentially treat non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and insulin resistance, offering new hope for people with type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific epigenetic mechanisms are still being mapped, the broader field of epigenetics has shown promise in understanding disease development.
Where this research is happening
IRVINE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE — IRVINE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YANG, QIN — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE
- Study coordinator: YANG, QIN
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.
Conditions: Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus