Understanding a Gene's Role in Body Weight and Fat Accumulation
Genetic dissection of tissue-specific roles of a circadian NADPH phosphatase
['FUNDING_R01'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11181327
This research explores how a specific gene influences body weight and fat storage in different body parts, hoping to find new ways to manage obesity and fatty liver disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11181327 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our bodies have a gene called Nocturnin that plays a role in how we use energy and store fat. Previous findings in mice showed that when this gene is not working, they are protected from gaining weight and developing fatty liver, even on a high-fat diet. However, it's unclear exactly how this gene works in different tissues like fat, liver, muscle, and intestines. This project will use special mice where the Nocturnin gene is turned off only in specific tissues to understand its unique effects on metabolism and body composition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with obesity, fatty liver disease, or metabolic disorders might eventually benefit from the insights gained from this fundamental research.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical interventions will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could uncover new biological pathways that could be targeted to develop treatments for obesity and fatty liver disease.
How similar studies have performed: While the global removal of this gene in mice has shown protective effects against obesity, this specific approach of dissecting its tissue-specific roles is a novel and untested strategy.
Where this research is happening
DALLAS, UNITED STATES
- UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER — DALLAS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GREEN, CARLA B. — UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: GREEN, CARLA B.
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.