Leptin's role in belly fat growth
Paracrine effects of leptin in regulating visceral fat expansion
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER · NIH-11292881
This project studies how leptin released by belly fat cells helps visceral (belly) fat grow and become inflamed in people with obesity.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11292881 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will examine how leptin made by visceral (belly) fat cells influences nearby precursor cells that create new fat, using single-cell sequencing to map different cell types. They will use high-fat diet models and lab experiments to raise leptin levels and observe which precursor populations expand and turn inflammatory. The team will test whether blocking leptin signaling can stop harmful fat enlargement and inflammation. Findings will come from a mix of cell studies, animal work, and analysis of fat tissue samples.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with obesity and excess visceral (belly) fat, especially those willing to donate fat tissue samples or travel to a research center, would be the most relevant candidates to participate.
Not a fit: People without excess visceral fat, children, or anyone seeking immediate clinical treatment are unlikely to get direct benefit from this basic science work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to prevent or reduce harmful belly fat growth and inflammation, lowering risk of diabetes and heart disease.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies show leptin influences metabolism systemically, but targeting leptin's local effects on visceral precursor cells is a newer approach that remains largely unproven in patients.
Where this research is happening
SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER — SAN ANTONIO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZHAO, SHANGANG — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCIENCE CENTER
- Study coordinator: ZHAO, SHANGANG
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 below.