Investigating how obesity affects breathing and blood pressure through a specific signaling pathway.

Melanocortin 4 signaling in the carotid body in obesity

['FUNDING_R01'] · GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10975638

This study is looking at how a specific signaling system in the carotid body, which helps control breathing and heart function, is affected by obesity, and it aims to find new ways to help people with obesity-related health problems like high blood pressure and sleep issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorGEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10975638 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of melanocortin 4 signaling in the carotid body, which is crucial for regulating breathing and cardiovascular functions. It aims to understand how obesity influences this signaling pathway and its implications for conditions like hypertension and sleep-disordered breathing. By examining the interactions between hormones like leptin and the carotid body, the research seeks to uncover new mechanisms that contribute to obesity-related health issues. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to novel therapeutic approaches for managing obesity and its complications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from obesity, particularly those experiencing hypertension or sleep-disordered breathing.

Not a fit: Patients without obesity or related cardiovascular issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for obesity-related conditions such as hypertension and sleep apnea.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of leptin signaling in obesity, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

WASHINGTON, 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.