How the body's internal clock affects fat tissue function in humans
Official title: Circadian regulation of molecular and systemic adipose tissue function in humans
Funded at Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11159698 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our body's natural clock affects how fat tissue works, especially in relation to weight and metabolism, to help find new ways to support people dealing with obesity and related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $172,022 |
| NIH project number | 5K01DK140206-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11159698 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are adults experiencing obesity or metabolic disorders, particularly those with disrupted circadian rhythms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without obesity or metabolic issues, or those not experiencing circadian disruptions, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the body's circadian rhythms influence the function of fat tissue, particularly in relation to metabolism and obesity. It aims to understand the role of the molecular clock within fat cells and how it interacts with factors like diet and hormonal signals. By studying human adipose tissue, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms that regulate fat metabolism and how these processes may be disrupted in individuals with obesity. The findings could provide insights into potential interventions for metabolic diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing obesity and related metabolic disorders by targeting circadian rhythms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between circadian rhythms and metabolic processes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Mayo Clinic Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lytle, Kelli Anne — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Lytle, Kelli Anne
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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.