Understanding a Liver Protein's Role in Obesity
Hepatic Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Regulation of Obesity: Mechanisms of Action
This research explores how a specific protein in the liver, called the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR), influences obesity and metabolism, especially in women.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11124176 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have a protein called the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) in the liver, which typically helps us respond to certain chemicals. We've found that in female mice, reducing this AhR protein in the liver protected them from gaining weight on a high-fat diet and improved their metabolism. This protection seems to be linked to another important protein, FGF21, which helps regulate how our bodies handle sugar and fat. By understanding how AhR controls FGF21, we hope to discover new ways to help people manage obesity and related metabolic conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for individuals living with obesity or metabolic conditions, as it aims to uncover new biological pathways that could inform future therapies.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical trial participation will not find a direct benefit from this early-stage laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatment strategies or targets for combating obesity and metabolic disorders, particularly for women.
How similar studies have performed: Prior work has shown that altering the AhR protein can impact obesity in animal models, suggesting this is a promising area for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
Galveston, United States
- University of Texas Med Br Galveston — Galveston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wright, Casey W — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Wright, Casey W
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.