Understanding how cell communication affects obesity-related diseases
Official title: Mechanistic Connection between Interorganellar Communication and Obesity-associated Diseases
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11046688 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called CLSTN3B in fat cells to understand how it affects fat storage and could help us find new ways to treat obesity and related health problems like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $380,586 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135556-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046688 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for obesity-related conditions, particularly those with metabolic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or related metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific protein, CLSTN3B, in fat cells and how it influences the body's ability to store fat. By studying mice with different levels of this protein, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that lead to obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The study focuses on the interaction between lipid droplets, which store fat, and the endoplasmic reticulum, a cell structure involved in fat metabolism. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for obesity and its associated health issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating obesity-related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cellular mechanisms in obesity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zeng, Xing — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Zeng, Xing
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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.