How oxytocin affects fat breakdown in the body

Regulation of Lipolysis by Oxytocin

NIH-funded research Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-10850570

This study is looking at how a hormone called oxytocin helps your body break down fat for energy, especially when you're fasting or feeling cold, and it also wants to understand how this hormone affects the nutrition in breast milk for new moms.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10850570 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of oxytocin, a neuropeptide, in regulating the breakdown of fat in adipose tissue, particularly during fasting and cold exposure. The study aims to understand how oxytocin signaling interacts with other hormones to promote lipolysis, the process of breaking down fats for energy. Researchers will explore the specific signaling pathways involved and how oxytocin levels are controlled in the body. Additionally, the research will examine the importance of oxytocin in ensuring that breast milk has the right nutritional content during lactation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic disorders, particularly those interested in understanding fat metabolism.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive direct benefits 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 oxytocin pathways.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that oxytocin may play a role in fat metabolism, but this study aims to provide more detailed insights into its mechanisms, making it a novel exploration.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
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.