Investigating how brown fat cells function without a specific protein.
Ucp1-independent functions in brown and beige adipocytes
This study is looking at special fat cells in mice to see how they help manage energy and body heat, even without a certain protein, which could lead to new ways to boost metabolism and fight metabolic diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10994145 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the roles of brown and beige adipocytes, which are specialized fat cells involved in regulating body temperature and energy balance. The study focuses on a unique mouse model to understand how these cells can still contribute to metabolism even when a key protein, Ucp1, is absent. Researchers will examine the mechanisms behind this process, how it is regulated, and its overall impact on metabolic health. The findings could provide insights into improving energy expenditure and combating metabolic diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing metabolic health issues or age-related declines in brown fat function.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have metabolic health concerns or are not affected by aging-related fat function decline may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing metabolic health and managing weight-related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brown fat's role in metabolism, indicating that this approach has potential for significant insights.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Biao — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Wang, Biao
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.