Investigating the effects of erythritol and erythronate on heart and metabolic health
Official title: Mechanisms and consequences of erythritol and erythronate excess in cardiometabolic disease
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11159802 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how high levels of erythritol, a sweetener, and its byproduct erythronate might be linked to heart disease and type 2 diabetes, by comparing blood samples from people with and without these conditions to see if they are just signs of illness or if they actually cause health problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $194,497 |
| NIH project number | 5K23DK140641-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11159802 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 years old who are living with obesity or type 2 diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without obesity or type 2 diabetes may not benefit directly from the findings of this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how elevated levels of erythritol, a sugar alcohol often used as an artificial sweetener, and its metabolite erythronate may contribute to heart disease and metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes. The study will analyze blood samples to determine the concentrations of these substances in individuals with and without diabetes and obesity. It aims to understand whether these compounds are merely markers of disease or if they play a causal role in cardiovascular issues. Additionally, the research will investigate how genetic differences may influence these levels and their effects on health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, potentially improving treatment strategies for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have indicated a link between erythritol levels and cardiovascular disease, suggesting that this research builds on established findings rather than exploring a completely novel area.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Abushamat, Layla a — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Abushamat, Layla a
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.