Investigating how a protein involved in cell energy can help improve insulin resistance in obesity
Official title: Targeting Dynamin-related protein 1-mediated mitochondrial fission to correct insulin resistance in obesity
Funded at University of Massachusetts Boston · NIH-10359518 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Drp1 might be causing insulin resistance in people with obesity, and it aims to find new ways to help improve insulin sensitivity, which could lead to better treatments for those dealing with weight-related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Massachusetts Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2021 |
| Award (this year) | $455,847 |
| NIH project number | 1R15DK131512-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10359518 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are obese and experiencing insulin resistance or related metabolic issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not obese or do not have insulin resistance may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of Dynamin-related protein 1 (Drp1) in the development of insulin resistance associated with obesity. By examining how excessive activation of Drp1 affects mitochondrial function in skeletal muscle, the study aims to identify new therapeutic targets for improving insulin sensitivity. The approach includes both pharmacological and genetic methods to inhibit Drp1 in animal models, which have shown promising results in enhancing insulin action and glucose regulation. Ultimately, the goal is to translate these findings into potential treatments for patients suffering from obesity-related metabolic disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve insulin sensitivity and help manage or prevent type 2 diabetes in obese patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that targeting mitochondrial dynamics can improve insulin sensitivity, suggesting that this approach may be promising.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Massachusetts Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zou, Kai — University of Massachusetts Boston
- Study coordinator: Zou, Kai
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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.