Investigating how creatine affects brown fat activation using advanced MRI techniques

Endogenous molecular MRI of creatine as a mediator of adrenergic activation of brown adipose tissue

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO · NIH-11011350

This study is looking at how creatine might help your body burn fat better by activating a special type of fat called brown fat, and it could lead to new ways to improve health for people dealing with weight-related issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11011350 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of creatine in activating brown adipose tissue (BAT) and its potential to improve metabolic health. By utilizing a novel MRI technique called Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST), the study aims to measure the metabolic function of adipose tissues in response to adrenergic stimulation. Patients may benefit from insights into how their body processes fat and energy, which could lead to new treatments for obesity-related conditions. The research involves both imaging and biochemical analysis to understand the mechanisms at play.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are overweight or obese and may be at risk for metabolic diseases.

Not a fit: Patients who are underweight or do not have any metabolic health issues may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for obesity and related metabolic diseases by enhancing our understanding of fat metabolism.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using similar imaging techniques to assess metabolic functions, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: adult onset diabetes

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.