Investigating how a specific enzyme in fat cells affects energy use and obesity

The Role of Mitochondrial TNAP in Adaptive Thermogenesis

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · DANA-FARBER CANCER INST · NIH-10983323

This study is looking at how a specific enzyme in fat cells affects energy use and weight gain, using special mice to see if understanding this could help find new ways to treat obesity and diabetes.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDANA-FARBER CANCER INST (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10983323 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of mitochondrial tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) in fat cells and its impact on energy expenditure and obesity. By using genetically modified mice that express TNAP in their adipose tissues, the study aims to explore how this enzyme influences metabolic processes related to obesity and diabetes. The researchers will employ biochemical techniques and cell imaging to analyze the localization and function of TNAP, which could lead to new insights into obesity treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of obesity or obesity-related diabetes, particularly those with metabolic dysfunction.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for preventing and treating obesity and related metabolic disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in adipose tissue for obesity treatment, indicating potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.