Investigating how a hormone affects brain neurons related to obesity and high blood pressure
Role of FGF21 Action in Hypothalamic Neurons in Obesity-Associated Hypertension
This study is looking at how a hormone called FGF21 affects certain brain cells that control blood pressure, to help find new ways to treat high blood pressure in people who are obese.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10991368 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the relationship between obesity and hypertension, a condition affecting over a billion people worldwide. It aims to identify how the hormone fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) influences specific neurons in the brain that regulate blood pressure. By using advanced techniques to manipulate these neurons in specially designed mouse models, the researchers will explore how changes in FGF21 signaling can affect blood pressure and sympathetic nerve activity. This could provide insights into new treatment strategies for managing hypertension associated with obesity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are obese and experiencing hypertension.
Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or do not have hypertension may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for controlling high blood pressure in individuals with obesity.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting FGF21 signaling in hypothalamic neurons is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding the neuroendocrine regulation of blood pressure.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rahmouni, Kamal — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Rahmouni, Kamal
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.