Understanding how brown fat develops in the body
Official title: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms Underlying the Development of Brown Adipose Tissue
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11055275 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in our bodies can turn into brown fat, which helps burn calories and keep us healthy, especially as we get older or if we're dealing with obesity.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $37,370 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DK138742-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055275 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are experiencing obesity or age-related metabolic decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular and molecular processes that lead to the formation of brown adipose tissue (BAT), which is known for its ability to burn calories and improve metabolic health. The study focuses on identifying specific progenitor cells that can develop into brown fat and understanding the mechanisms that control this differentiation. By using laboratory techniques such as adipogenic differentiation assays and lineage tracing, the researchers aim to uncover how these cells contribute to the development of BAT, especially in the context of aging and obesity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance brown fat development, potentially improving metabolic health and combating obesity.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding brown fat's role in metabolism, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fein, Ethan — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Fein, Ethan
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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.