Understanding how a new transporter affects fat metabolism in fat cells

Discovery and characterization of a novel acylcarnitine transporter in brown adipocytes

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11086868

This study is looking at a new way that fat cells take in certain substances related to obesity and type 2 diabetes, and it aims to find out how changing this process might help improve insulin sensitivity and fat metabolism for people dealing with these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-11086868 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a newly discovered transporter that plays a role in how acylcarnitines, which are linked to obesity and type 2 diabetes, are taken up by fat cells. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas9, the researchers will knock out specific transporters to observe how this affects insulin sensitivity and fat metabolism. The study aims to uncover the molecular pathways involved in the uptake and processing of acylcarnitines, which could lead to new insights into managing obesity-related conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who are affected by obesity or type 2 diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by obesity or type 2 diabetes may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating type 2 diabetes and obesity-related complications.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific transporter being studied is novel, previous research has shown that understanding lipid metabolism can lead to significant advancements in treating metabolic diseases.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.