Investigating the role of fatty acids in obesity-related diseases
Official title: BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application
Funded at VA Veterans Administration Hospital · NIH-11103228 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different kinds of fats in our diet affect the way our bodies process certain fats that can lead to inflammation and health issues, especially for people dealing with obesity-related conditions like diabetes and liver disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Veterans Administration Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK6BX006315-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11103228 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with obesity or related metabolic conditions, such as adult-onset diabetes or liver disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how different types of fatty acids affect the metabolism of sphingolipids in various tissues, including adipose tissue, liver, and muscle. By examining the relationship between fatty acids and sphingolipid production, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to inflammation and other harmful processes associated with obesity-related diseases. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how dietary fats influence their health, particularly in relation to conditions like adult-onset diabetes and liver disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dietary recommendations and therapeutic strategies for managing obesity-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the impact of fatty acids on metabolic health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
VA Veterans Administration Hospital
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cowart, Lauren Ashley — VA Veterans Administration Hospital
- Study coordinator: Cowart, Lauren Ashley
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.