Investigating how brain signaling affects weight gain differently in men and women
Official title: Uncovering the role of hypothalamic ciliary cAMP signaling in sex-specific control of metabolic homeostasis
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10980937 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in a part of the brain called the hypothalamus affect weight gain differently in men and women, hoping to find new ways to treat obesity that take these differences into account.
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 start | July 5, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $576,810 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK139062-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10980937 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old, particularly those experiencing obesity or metabolic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of specific brain cells in the hypothalamus that influence weight gain in a sex-specific manner. It focuses on understanding how a particular signaling pathway, involving a structure called the primary cilium, regulates energy balance and metabolism. By studying both human genetics and animal models, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to obesity, particularly in females, despite similar obesity rates in both sexes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to targeted treatments for obesity based on sex differences.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized obesity treatments that consider sex-specific biological differences.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic processes related to sex differences, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cui, Huxing — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Cui, Huxing
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.