Investigating how obesity affects breathing and blood pressure through a specific signaling pathway.
Official title: Melanocortin 4 signaling in the carotid body in obesity
Funded at George Washington University · NIH-10975638 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $204,887 |
| NIH project number | 3R01HL133100-08S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10975638 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from obesity, particularly those experiencing hypertension or sleep-disordered breathing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without obesity or related cardiovascular issues may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
George Washington University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Polotsky, Vsevolod Y — George Washington University
- Study coordinator: Polotsky, Vsevolod Y
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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.