How the body's internal clock affects muscle metabolism during obesity
Official title: Circadian Clock Regulation of HIF1a-dependent Skeletal Muscle Metabolism during Diet-induced Obesity
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11068317 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our body's internal clock affects muscle health and metabolism, especially when someone is dealing with obesity, and it aims to find out how a certain protein plays a role in these changes, which could help us discover new ways to support muscle and metabolic health for people facing weight challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $43,695 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DK139621-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11068317 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing obesity or related metabolic issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic syndrome may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the circadian clock, which regulates our sleep-wake cycles, influences metabolism in skeletal muscle, particularly during diet-induced obesity. It examines the role of a specific protein, HIF1α, in muscle function and glucose regulation when the circadian rhythm is disrupted. By studying mice with altered circadian rhythms, the research aims to understand how these disruptions can lead to metabolic issues and muscle loss. The findings could provide insights into potential interventions for improving muscle health and metabolic function in individuals with obesity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing obesity-related metabolic disorders and improving muscle health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that circadian rhythm disruptions can significantly impact metabolic health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chaikin, Claire — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Chaikin, Claire
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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.