How insulin regulates glucose use in the liver
Official title: Insulin's acute regulation of hepatic glucose utilization
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10997139 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how insulin helps the liver manage sugar in the blood and explores the role of a protein called AKT, which could help us understand why some people have trouble with blood sugar control, like those with insulin resistance or diabetes, and hopefully lead to better treatments for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DK139617-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997139 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes who are experiencing difficulties in managing their blood sugar levels.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without metabolic disorders or those who do not have issues with glucose regulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how insulin affects glucose metabolism in the liver, which is crucial for managing blood sugar levels. It focuses on understanding the role of a protein called AKT in controlling how the liver uses glucose after eating. By examining the metabolic pathways and mechanisms involved, the study aims to uncover why these processes may become dysfunctional in conditions like insulin resistance and diabetes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for managing blood sugar levels effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for diabetes by enhancing our understanding of insulin's role in glucose regulation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding insulin signaling pathways, making this study a continuation of established work in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stefkovich, Megan Lynn — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Stefkovich, Megan Lynn
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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.