Investigating how brain cells regulate energy balance and obesity.
Kansas Center for Metabolism and Obesity REsearch (KC-MORE) - Project 2
This study is looking at how certain brain cells help control our weight and energy use, which could lead to new ways to help people manage obesity and related health issues like type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11044225 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which specific brain cells in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) regulate energy balance and body weight. It examines how mitochondrial lipid metabolism in these neurons affects food intake and energy expenditure, which are crucial for preventing obesity and related metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes. By studying the interactions between neural, hormonal, and nutrient signals, the research aims to uncover new insights into the complex factors that contribute to weight gain and obesity. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to new treatments or interventions for obesity and its associated conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic disorders, particularly those at risk for type 2 diabetes.
Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or do not have metabolic disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating obesity and metabolic diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of brain signaling in obesity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Kansas City, United States
- University of Kansas Medical Center — Kansas City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morris, E Matthew — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Morris, E Matthew
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.