Investigating how FGF21 affects metabolic syndrome after undernutrition refeeding

FGF21 protects from progressive metabolic syndrome after undernutrition refeeding

NIH-funded research University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-10786998

This study is looking at how not getting enough nutrition as a child can lead to weight and health problems later in life, especially after eating normally again, and it’s using mice to see how a missing protein affects their eating habits and metabolism.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Galveston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10786998 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the impact of undernutrition during childhood on the development of metabolic syndrome (MetS) later in life, particularly after refeeding. It aims to understand how the loss of a protein called FGF21 may contribute to obesity, insulin resistance, and other metabolic issues. By using mouse models, the study will compare the effects of refeeding on normal mice and those lacking FGF21, focusing on behaviors like food preference and overeating. The findings could provide insights into the biological mechanisms behind MetS and potential interventions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who have a history of undernutrition or related metabolic issues.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced undernutrition or do not have metabolic syndrome may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating metabolic syndrome in individuals who have experienced undernutrition.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the role of proteins like FGF21 in metabolic processes can lead to significant advancements in treating metabolic disorders.

Where this research is happening

Galveston, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.