Understanding how certain brain cells contribute to obesity
Official title: Neural pathways for obesity development by AgRP neurons
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11065537 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells that help control hunger and weight might be involved in obesity, with the hope of finding new ways to treat it that work better and have fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 19, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $447,317 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136284-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11065537 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are struggling with obesity or related metabolic conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not overweight or do not have obesity-related health issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural pathways involved in obesity development, focusing on specific brain cells known as AgRP neurons. By examining how these neurons communicate and their role in regulating body weight, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for obesity treatment. The research will explore the effects of neurotransmitters released by AgRP neurons and how different projections of these neurons influence obesity. This could lead to more effective and targeted obesity treatments with fewer side effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective treatments for obesity that specifically target the underlying neural mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting neural pathways for obesity treatment, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tong, Qingchun — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Tong, Qingchun
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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.