Understanding how a specific protein regulates fat cell development
Official title: Molecular mechanism of PIN1-mediated regulation of the nuclear receptor PPARy
Funded at Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-11035137 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called PIN1 works with another protein, PPARγ, that helps control the growth of fat cells, which could give us new ideas about managing conditions like adult-onset diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $35,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DK134167-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035137 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with adult-onset diabetes, particularly those interested in understanding the biological mechanisms behind fat cell regulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any metabolic disorders or conditions related to fat cell development may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms by which a protein called PIN1 interacts with a nuclear receptor known as PPARγ, which plays a crucial role in the development of fat cells. The study aims to uncover how this interaction affects the activity of PPARγ and its ability to regulate genes involved in fat cell formation. By using advanced biophysical methods, the researchers will analyze the binding dynamics and conformational changes of PPARγ, particularly focusing on a less understood region of the protein. This could lead to new insights into how fat cell development is controlled, which is important for understanding conditions like adult-onset diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing obesity and diabetes by targeting the mechanisms of fat cell development.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of nuclear receptors in metabolic diseases, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Scripps Research Institute, the
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Christopher Conrad — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Williams, Christopher Conrad
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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.