Investigating how estrogen affects brain cells to help prevent obesity and metabolic issues
Official title: ESTROGEN-INDUCIBLE PNNS ENHANCE EXCITATORY SYNAPTIC STRENGTH ONTO GABA NEURONS IN THE MEPD TO PREVENT OBESITY AND METABOLIC DYSREGULATION
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11114055 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special structures in the brain help certain nerve cells work together to control hunger and energy balance, especially in women, to find new ways to help manage weight and improve health for those dealing with obesity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 24, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $447,523 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136627-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11114055 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic dysregulation, particularly those who may have hormonal influences on their condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of perineuronal nets (PNNs) in the brain, which are structures that support and protect certain neurons. The focus is on how these nets interact with GABA neurons in the medial amygdala to influence energy balance and prevent overeating. By studying the effects of estrogen on these neurons, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could help regulate body weight and metabolic health. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for obesity and related metabolic disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing obesity and improving metabolic health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of PNNs in metabolic regulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Chunmei — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Wang, Chunmei
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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.