Understanding how bile acids affect metabolism and weight loss
Official title: Conjugated bile acids as metabolic mediators between gut and fat tissues
Funded at Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope · NIH-11134902 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special bile acids might help people lose weight and improve their metabolism in a way that's similar to weight loss surgery, and it's aimed at finding safer and cheaper options for those struggling with obesity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Duarte, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $222,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R56DK138666-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134902 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic disorders who are seeking alternatives to bariatric surgery.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not overweight or do not have metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of conjugated bile acids in mediating metabolic benefits similar to those achieved through bariatric surgery, which is currently the most effective treatment for obesity. By studying the effects of these bile acids on fat tissue and metabolism, the research aims to uncover safer and more affordable alternatives to invasive surgical procedures. The approach includes experiments on obese mice to observe changes in fat cell behavior and gut microbiota after surgery, providing insights into how bile acids influence weight loss and metabolic health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, non-invasive treatments for obesity and related metabolic disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the metabolic roles of bile acids, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope
Duarte, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Wendong — Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope
- Study coordinator: Huang, Wendong
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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.