Investigating how brown fat helps regulate energy balance and metabolism
Official title: BCFA Metabolism and the Regulation of Energy Balance
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11090425 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special type of fat in our bodies, called brown fat, helps burn energy instead of storing it, which could lead to better treatments for people with obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | May 25, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $513,150 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK133344-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11090425 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or type 2 diabetes who may benefit from improved metabolic regulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues related to obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of brown adipose tissue (BAT) in energy expenditure, which could lead to new treatments for obesity and type 2 diabetes. The study examines how BAT and beige fat utilize a protein called uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) to promote heat generation instead of storing energy. Researchers will explore alternative pathways that contribute to energy metabolism, particularly the role of peroxisomes in metabolizing branched chain fatty acids. By analyzing these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new strategies for enhancing energy expenditure in patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies for obesity and type 2 diabetes by enhancing energy expenditure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting brown fat for metabolic improvements, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lodhi, Irfan J — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Lodhi, Irfan J
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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.