Investigating how creatine affects brown fat activation using advanced MRI techniques
Official title: Endogenous molecular MRI of creatine as a mediator of adrenergic activation of brown adipose tissue
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11011350 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 15, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $399,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135722-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11011350 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are overweight or obese and may be at risk for metabolic diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are underweight or do not have any metabolic health issues may not receive benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cai, Kejia — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Cai, Kejia
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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.