Investigating how certain immune cells affect insulin resistance in adolescents
Official title: The role of circulating meta-inflammatory monocytes in adolescent insulin resistance
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11092894 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the body might affect insulin resistance in teenagers, especially when they eat unhealthy foods, to help identify those who may be at risk for weight-related health issues in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $624,302 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK130864-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092894 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include adolescents aged 12 to 18 who are experiencing obesity or related metabolic issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not adolescents or those without obesity-related health concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of specific immune cells, known as meta-inflammatory monocytes, in the development of insulin resistance among adolescents. By examining how these cells respond to unhealthy diets, the study aims to identify adolescents who are at higher risk for metabolic diseases. The approach includes both clinical assessments and animal models to explore the mechanisms behind these immune responses and their impact on insulin sensitivity. The goal is to develop markers that can help predict which adolescents may face future health challenges related to obesity and insulin resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early identification of adolescents at risk for metabolic diseases, allowing for timely interventions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune responses related to obesity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singer, Kanakadurga — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Singer, Kanakadurga
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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.