Investigating a microprotein's role in energy dissipation in fat tissue
Official title: MICT1 function in thermogenesis
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-11090505 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a tiny protein that might help our body's brown fat burn energy and keep us warm, especially when it's cold, and the findings could lead to new ways to help people with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $519,349 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134757-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11090505 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be adults struggling with obesity or type 2 diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not overweight or do not have metabolic disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a newly identified microprotein affects the function of brown adipose tissue (BAT), which is responsible for burning energy and regulating body temperature. By studying this microprotein in both laboratory settings and animal models, researchers aim to uncover its role in promoting thermogenesis, especially in response to cold exposure. The approach involves manipulating the expression of this microprotein in specific fat cells to observe changes in energy expenditure and signaling pathways. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new treatments for obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that enhance energy expenditure and combat obesity and insulin resistance.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in manipulating brown fat activity, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sul, Hei Sook — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Sul, Hei Sook
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.