Investigating brain neurons that stimulate appetite
Orexigenic AgRP neurons in the brainstem
This study is looking at certain brain cells that help control hunger to better understand how they work and how they might lead to new ways to help people manage their appetite and treat obesity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11046655 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding specific neurons in the brainstem that are responsible for stimulating appetite. It aims to identify how these neurons interact with metabolic signals and how they may work alongside other known appetite-regulating neurons. By studying a newly discovered population of AgRP-expressing neurons, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms that drive feeding behavior, which could lead to new treatment strategies for obesity. Patients may benefit from insights into how their appetite is regulated and potential new therapies that could emerge from this work.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are struggling with obesity or related eating disorders.
Not a fit: Patients who are under 21 years old or those without issues related to appetite regulation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for obesity by providing a better understanding of appetite regulation.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in understanding appetite regulation through neuronal pathways, but this specific focus on hindbrain AgRP neurons is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xu, Allison W — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Xu, Allison W
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 below.