How the body's internal clock affects fat cell behavior

Circadian Regulation of In Vitro Differentiated Adipocytes

NIH-funded research Dartmouth College · NIH-10991040

This study is looking at how our body's internal clock affects fat cells and their behavior throughout the day, which could help us understand more about obesity and metabolism for people who are interested in these health issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDartmouth College NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hanover, United States)
Project IDNIH-10991040 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of circadian rhythms, or the body's internal clock, in the biology of fat cells (adipocytes). By studying fat cells grown in the lab, the researchers aim to understand how these cells change their behavior based on time of day, particularly in relation to energy use and heat production. The study will involve analyzing gene expression patterns in these cells over a period of three days to uncover how their functions are influenced by circadian rhythms. This could provide insights into how obesity and metabolic disorders are linked to our biological clocks.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are struggling with obesity or metabolic dysregulation.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues related to obesity or metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating obesity and related metabolic disorders by targeting the circadian regulation of fat cells.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of linking circadian rhythms to adipocyte biology is relatively novel, there is growing evidence that circadian regulation plays a significant role in metabolic health.

Where this research is happening

Hanover, 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.