Understanding how certain proteins control fat storage in the body
Molecular and cellular analysis of the ABHD5/PNPLA3 metabolon in lipid homeostasis
This project looks at how two proteins, ABHD5 and PNPLA3, work together to manage fat storage in our bodies, especially in fat and liver tissues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11118896 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
When the body stores too much fat in places like the liver and muscles, it can lead to serious health problems like diabetes and fatty liver disease. We want to understand the specific ways our cells handle fat to find new treatments. This work focuses on a protein called PNPLA3, which is linked to fatty liver disease, especially a common genetic change in this protein. We are exploring how PNPLA3 interacts with another protein, ABHD5, to control how fat is stored inside cells, which could be key to understanding disease progression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for individuals with or at risk for fatty liver disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.
Not a fit: Patients without conditions related to lipid metabolism or fatty liver disease may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to treat or prevent fatty liver disease and related metabolic conditions by targeting how fat is stored in the body.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data and recently published findings suggest that the interaction between these proteins is important in fat metabolism, indicating a promising direction for this work.
Where this research is happening
Detroit, United States
- Wayne State University — Detroit, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mottillo, Emilio — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Mottillo, Emilio
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 below.