Understanding how cholesterol affects immune cells in fat tissue and obesity
Official title: The importance of Treg-intrinsic cholesterol metabolism for visceral adipose tissue Treg homeostasis, phenotype, and function
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10973549 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cholesterol affects special immune cells called regulatory T cells in fat tissue, especially in people with obesity, to see if it can help us understand and improve conditions like type II diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31DK137590-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10973549 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity, particularly those experiencing metabolic issues such as insulin resistance or type II diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic syndrome may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cholesterol metabolism in regulatory T cells (Tregs) within visceral adipose tissue, particularly how it influences their function and presence in the context of obesity. By examining how a high-fat diet impacts Treg populations and their ability to control inflammation, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to metabolic diseases like type II diabetes. The approach includes analyzing gene expression and immune responses in fat tissue to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving Treg function in obese individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating obesity-related metabolic diseases by enhancing the function of immune cells in fat tissue.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the immune response in obesity, suggesting that targeting Treg function could be a viable therapeutic approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Elkins, Cody — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Elkins, Cody
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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.