Investigating how certain brain signals affect metabolism and obesity.
Official title: Alpha2/delta1- thrombospondin-3 signaling in the central control of metabolic function
Funded at Tufts University Boston · NIH-11058412 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein in the brain affects our energy and sugar levels, and how problems with this protein might lead to overeating and obesity, with the goal of finding new ways to help manage weight and related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts University Boston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 20, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $561,761 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK138586-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058412 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing obesity or metabolic dysfunction, particularly those with a history of overeating.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not overweight or do not have metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and its receptor in regulating energy and glucose levels in the body. It examines how deficits in these signals can lead to overeating and obesity, using animal models to explore the effects of specific receptors in the brain. The study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could help manage obesity and related metabolic disorders by restoring normal signaling pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for obesity and metabolic disorders by targeting specific brain signaling pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar brain signaling pathways to improve metabolic health, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Tufts University Boston
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rios, Maribel — Tufts University Boston
- Study coordinator: Rios, Maribel
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.