Understanding how brain signals control energy balance and food intake
Official title: Synaptic and circuit mechanisms of central GLP-1 signaling in energy balance
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11092860 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called GLP-1 in the brain helps control hunger and energy use, with the hope of finding new ways to help people manage obesity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 31, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $485,724 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK131452-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11092860 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals struggling with obesity or adult-onset diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have issues related to obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) in the brain and its effects on regulating energy balance and food intake. By exploring the cellular and circuit mechanisms of GLP-1 signaling in the central nervous system, the study aims to uncover how these signals can suppress feeding and potentially lead to new treatments for obesity. The research employs advanced molecular tools to analyze neuronal activity and connectivity, focusing on specific brain regions involved in energy regulation. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective obesity interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for obesity and related metabolic disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding GLP-1 signaling, indicating potential for significant advancements in obesity treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pang, Zhiping P. — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Pang, Zhiping P.
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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.