Investigating how obesity affects brain inflammation in male and female mice
Official title: Cell type-specific complement activation and glial reactivity in male and female mice with dietary obesity
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11085261 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how being overweight affects the brain and its immune response in male and female mice, to help us understand why obesity might lead to problems with thinking and behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | July 24, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $364,658 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134202-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11085261 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals with obesity-related cognitive issues, particularly those who are aware of the impact of diet on their health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have obesity or related cognitive decline may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between obesity and neuroinflammation, particularly focusing on how different cell types in the brain respond to obesity in male and female mice. By using genetically modified mice that allow for specific manipulation of immune responses, the study aims to identify how complement activation contributes to brain inflammation and behavioral changes associated with obesity. The researchers will employ advanced techniques to analyze glial cells and their interactions in the brain, providing insights into the mechanisms behind obesity-related cognitive decline.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cognitive decline associated with obesity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between obesity and neuroinflammation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stranahan, Alexis M. — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Stranahan, Alexis M.
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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.