Investigating how tiny RNA molecules affect metabolic risks in children

Role of miRNAs in the transmission of metabolic risks

NIH-funded research Louisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge · NIH-10807976

This study is looking at how tiny molecules called microRNAs might affect childhood obesity and how things like a dad's exercise habits can influence his children's health, using fruit flies to help us understand these connections better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLouisiana State Univ A&m Col Baton Rouge NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baton Rouge, United States)
Project IDNIH-10807976 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in the development of metabolic disorders, particularly focusing on childhood obesity. It examines how environmental factors and ancestral exposures can influence the metabolic health of offspring, using fruit flies as a model organism due to their genetic simplicity. The study aims to understand how paternal exercise can alter mitochondrial efficiency in offspring and how these changes may be transmitted through sperm cells. By analyzing the genetic and biochemical changes associated with these processes, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better prevention strategies for obesity and related metabolic conditions in children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-21 who may be at risk for obesity or metabolic disorders due to familial or environmental factors.

Not a fit: Patients who are not children or do not have a family history of metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing childhood obesity and its associated metabolic disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic and environmental factors contributing to obesity, making this approach a continuation of established findings.

Where this research is happening

Baton Rouge, 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 2026-06-09 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.