How hormones in the brain affect body weight control
Testosterone and estrogen signaling pathways in the medial amygdala interact to control energy homeostasis
This study is looking at how hormones like testosterone and estrogen affect how our bodies manage energy and weight, using specially modified mice to learn more about the brain's role in this process, which could help us understand obesity better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10876328 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how sex hormones, specifically testosterone and estrogen, influence energy balance and body weight regulation in the brain. The study focuses on the medial amygdala, a brain region that plays a crucial role in these processes. By creating genetically modified mice that lack specific hormone receptors, researchers aim to understand how these hormones interact to maintain energy homeostasis. This could provide insights into the biological mechanisms behind weight management and obesity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing issues with weight management or obesity, particularly those with hormonal imbalances.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have hormonal influences on their weight or metabolic conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for obesity and related metabolic disorders by targeting hormone signaling pathways.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that hormone signaling in the brain is critical for energy regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xu, Pingwen — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Xu, Pingwen
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.