How the structure of fat tissue affects diabetes

Extracellular matrix-adipocyte metabolic crosstalk and diabetes

NIH-funded research Veterans Health Administration · NIH-11044150

This study is looking at how the structure around fat cells affects diabetes, especially in military Veterans, to find new ways to help manage the condition better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Health Administration NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11044150 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in fat tissue and its impact on metabolic dysfunction related to diabetes, particularly in military Veterans. The study aims to understand how changes in the ECM, influenced by factors like advanced glycation end-products, affect the metabolism of fat cells (adipocytes) and contribute to insulin resistance. By exploring these mechanisms, the researchers hope to develop new strategies to manipulate fat tissue properties to improve diabetes management. Patients may be involved in trials that assess these new therapeutic approaches.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are military Veterans who are experiencing obesity and type II diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients without obesity or those who do not have type II diabetes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that improve insulin sensitivity and metabolic health in individuals with diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the extracellular matrix in metabolic diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.