How liver cell miRNAs affect insulin sensitivity in obesity
Official title: Mechanisms by which hepatocyte extracellular miRNAs mediate peripheral insulin sensitivity
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11084553 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny molecules from liver cells affect how well our bodies respond to insulin, especially in people with obesity and Type 2 diabetes, to find new ways to help improve insulin sensitivity and manage diabetes better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2021 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $395,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK125560-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11084553 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with obesity or insulin resistance, particularly those at risk for developing Type 2 diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not overweight or do not have insulin resistance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of liver cell-derived extracellular miRNAs in regulating insulin sensitivity, particularly in the context of obesity and Type 2 diabetes. It explores how changes in these miRNAs can influence insulin-producing cells and overall glucose metabolism. By studying mice with altered miRNA levels, the research aims to identify potential new therapeutic targets for improving insulin sensitivity and managing diabetes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments for obesity-related insulin resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve insulin sensitivity and help manage or prevent Type 2 diabetes in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting miRNAs for metabolic diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ying, Wei — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Ying, Wei
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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.