Investigating how a specific receptor affects breathing control
Official title: The role of the melanocortin 4 receptor in control of breathing
Funded at George Washington University · NIH-11163639 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special receptor in the body that helps control breathing, especially for people with obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS), to see if a new type of medication can help them breathe better while they sleep.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | July 22, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $41,866 |
| NIH project number | 3R01HL174409-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11163639 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with obesity hypoventilation syndrome or related sleep disordered breathing conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without obesity or those who do not experience sleep disordered breathing may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) and its role in controlling breathing, particularly in patients with obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS). The study aims to explore how MC4R agonists can enhance the body's response to carbon dioxide levels, potentially improving breathing during sleep. By examining the effects of these agonists in both animal models and humans, the research seeks to identify new pharmacological treatments for OHS, a condition that currently lacks effective medication. The approach includes both pharmacological interventions and advanced neurobiological techniques to understand the mechanisms involved.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from obesity hypoventilation syndrome, improving their breathing and overall quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with MC4R agonists in treating obesity-related conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
George Washington University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Polotsky, Vsevolod Y — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Polotsky, Vsevolod Y
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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.