Understanding how a specific protein affects weight control and metabolism
Official title: Roles of hypothalamic JMJD3 in the regulation of leptin sensitivity and energy homeostasis
Funded at Arizona State University-Tempe Campus · NIH-11143753 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called JMJD3 affects the way your brain responds to leptin, a hormone that helps manage hunger and energy, to find new ways to treat obesity and related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tempe, United States) |
| Project start | July 25, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $396,615 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK139038-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143753 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who are struggling with obesity or metabolic syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not overweight or do not have metabolic issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called JMJD3 in the brain's regulation of leptin, a hormone that helps control appetite and energy balance. By studying how JMJD3 influences leptin sensitivity, the research aims to uncover new mechanisms behind obesity and metabolic disorders. The approach includes examining the epigenetic changes in the hypothalamus, which is crucial for leptin's action, particularly in response to unhealthy diets. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for obesity and related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating obesity and improving metabolic health.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting epigenetic factors can lead to significant advancements in understanding metabolic diseases, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
Tempe, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Min Hyun — Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
- Study coordinator: Kim, Min Hyun
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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.