Improving fat function through blood vessel development

Energizing good fat by neurovascular development

NIH-funded research University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11012335

This study is looking at how a special protein can help create more blood vessels in fat tissue, which might help people with obesity and insulin resistance, and it aims to understand how this protein works with another one to boost energy use in fat cells, potentially leading to new ways to treat metabolic issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11012335 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a specific growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor-A, can enhance blood vessel formation in fat tissue, which may help combat obesity and insulin resistance. The study will explore the interaction between this growth factor and another factor called angiopoietin-2 to understand how they work together to improve energy expenditure in fat cells. By using advanced genetic models, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that promote healthy fat function and potentially lead to new treatments for metabolic disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or insulin resistance, particularly those with adult-onset diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or do not have 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 conditions by enhancing the function of fat tissue.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing fat function through blood vessel development, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Houston, 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 2026-06-09 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.