Investigating how FGF21 affects metabolism differently in men and women based on diet.

The novel role of FGF21 in mediating sex-dependent responses to dietary macronutrients

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS · NIH-10663213

This study is looking at how a hormone called FGF21 affects how men and women respond to changes in diet, with the goal of finding better ways to help people manage their weight and metabolic health based on their sex.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT DAVIS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DAVIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10663213 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of FGF21, a hormone produced by the liver, in how men and women respond differently to dietary changes, particularly in relation to metabolic health. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these sex-dependent responses, focusing on how FGF21 influences body weight, glucose tolerance, and fat metabolism. By examining these differences, the research seeks to improve treatment strategies for metabolic diseases that have historically been tested primarily on male subjects. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how dietary interventions can be tailored based on sex.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with metabolic syndrome or related conditions, particularly those who are interested in how diet affects their health differently based on their sex.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have metabolic issues or those who are not interested in dietary interventions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective dietary and pharmacological treatments for metabolic diseases that consider sex differences.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been some research on FGF21, this specific focus on sex-dependent responses to dietary macronutrients is relatively novel and untested.

Where this research is happening

DAVIS, 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 →

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.