Understanding how COVID-19 affects fat tissue and blood sugar levels

Assessing the Impact of SARS-CoV-2 on Adipose Tissue Function and Glucose Homeostasis

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11089369

This study is looking at how COVID-19 affects fat tissue and blood sugar control, especially for people with obesity or diabetes, by testing on mice to see how the virus might disrupt normal fat cell function and lead to health issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11089369 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on fat tissue function and blood sugar regulation, particularly in individuals with obesity or diabetes. It aims to understand how the virus can directly infect fat cells and disrupt their normal function, leading to insulin resistance and worse health outcomes. The study will involve experiments on mice to assess the impact of COVID-19 on glucose metabolism and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. By examining both acute and long-term effects of the virus, the research seeks to provide insights into how COVID-19 can lead to metabolic complications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with obesity or diabetes who have been infected with SARS-CoV-2.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been infected with SARS-CoV-2 or do not have obesity or diabetes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for COVID-19 patients, particularly those with obesity or diabetes, by addressing the metabolic complications associated with the virus.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has indicated that viral infections can impact metabolic health, but this specific investigation into SARS-CoV-2's effects on adipose tissue is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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 acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infectionacute SARS-CoV-2 infection
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.