Investigating a gene on the X chromosome that affects obesity in women

A sex-biased obesity gene on the X chromosome

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10872674

This study is looking at how a gene called Kdm5c on the X chromosome affects weight gain in women after menopause, hoping to find ways to help women manage obesity and related health problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10872674 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a specific gene on the X chromosome, known as Kdm5c, influences obesity in women, particularly after menopause. The study examines how this gene affects fat accumulation and energy expenditure by altering gene expression and chromatin structure in adipose tissue. By using mouse models, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind sex differences in obesity and cardiovascular disease risk, which are particularly pronounced in postmenopausal women. The findings could lead to targeted interventions for obesity-related health issues in women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women who are experiencing obesity or related cardiovascular issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not postmenopausal or who do not have obesity-related health concerns may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating obesity and cardiovascular disease in women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic factors influencing obesity, but this specific focus on the Kdm5c gene in relation to sex differences is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 Cardiovascular Diseases
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.