Understanding how cells communicate under stress from diet and temperature

Mechanisms of mitochondrial-ER communication during dietary and thermal induced stress

NIH-funded research Dana-Farber Cancer Inst · NIH-10877848

This study is looking at how two parts of our cells work together to handle stress from things like diet and temperature changes, especially in fat-burning cells, to find new ways to help people with obesity and related health issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDana-Farber Cancer Inst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10877848 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how communication between mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum in cells helps manage stress caused by diet and temperature changes. By focusing on brown adipocytes, which are important for burning fat and regulating blood sugar, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that support cellular function during obesity. The researchers will use specific mouse models to explore how a high-fat diet affects these cellular processes, potentially leading to new treatments for obesity and related metabolic diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic disorders, particularly those at risk for type 2 diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or do not have metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies for obesity and type 2 diabetes by enhancing the function of brown adipose tissue.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial function and its role in metabolic diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.