How insulin resistance in brain cells affects puberty and reproductive health
Official title: Astrocyte insulin resistance-induced neuroendocrine defects in pubertal delay and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
Funded at University of Toledo Health Sci Campus · NIH-11012836 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called astrocytes help control reproductive hormones and puberty, especially how insulin affects them, to better understand why some people might experience delays in puberty or fertility issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Toledo Health Sci Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Toledo, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2022 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $536,227 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HD104418-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012836 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who are experiencing delays in puberty or related reproductive health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing any reproductive health issues or puberty delays may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in regulating reproductive hormones and puberty. It focuses on how insulin signaling in these cells influences the release of important substances that support fertility. By examining the effects of insulin resistance on astrocytes, the study aims to understand how this condition can lead to delays in puberty and reproductive issues. The researchers will use advanced genetic techniques to explore the timing and location of insulin signaling in astrocytes and its impact on hormone release.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for individuals experiencing delayed puberty or reproductive disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting insulin signaling in brain cells can influence reproductive health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Toledo Health Sci Campus
Toledo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hill, Jennifer Wootton — University of Toledo Health Sci Campus
- Study coordinator: Hill, Jennifer Wootton
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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.