How glycerol affects glucose and fat metabolism in the body

Glycerol Regulation of Gluconeogenesis and Fatty Acid Metabolism

NIH-funded research University of Arizona · NIH-11098639

This study is looking at how glycerol affects the way our bodies produce sugar and process fat, especially in men and women, to help us understand more about diabetes and improve health management for everyone, particularly women.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Arizona NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tucson, United States)
Project IDNIH-11098639 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of glycerol in regulating glucose production and fat metabolism, particularly focusing on differences between sexes. The study aims to understand how glycerol metabolism influences gluconeogenesis and lipid synthesis in the liver, using advanced techniques like 13C tracing and flux analyses. By examining these processes, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that contribute to diabetes, especially in women, who are less affected by certain forms of the disease. The findings could lead to new insights into metabolic health and diabetes management.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with adult-onset diabetes, especially those experiencing issues related to glucose and fat metabolism.

Not a fit: Patients with type 1 diabetes or those not experiencing metabolic issues related to glycerol may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for diabetes and better understanding of metabolic health, particularly for women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic pathways related to glycerol, but this specific approach focusing on sex differences is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Tucson, 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.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.