Understanding how dehydration affects fat metabolism and kidney function
Ecophysiological genomics of fat oxidation and renal vasoconstriction during acute dehydration
This study looks at how some animals, like cactus mice, handle dehydration and what their genes do to help them cope, with the hope that this knowledge can lead to better ways to help people who struggle with dehydration.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Hampshire NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10449273 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the genomic and physiological responses to dehydration, focusing on how certain animals manage fat oxidation and kidney function under stress. By studying both laboratory and wild rodents, particularly cactus mice in varying environments, the research aims to uncover the genetic mechanisms that allow for dehydration tolerance. The approach includes manipulating specific pathways related to kidney function and metabolic water production to gain insights that could inform treatment strategies for dehydration-related health issues in humans.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of dehydration due to health conditions or environmental factors, such as those with diabetes or living in drought-affected areas.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk of dehydration or have no underlying health conditions related to fluid balance may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for dehydration-related health problems, potentially saving lives and improving health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific genomic approach to dehydration tolerance is novel, related research has shown success in understanding metabolic responses in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- University of New Hampshire — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Macmanes, Matthew David — University of New Hampshire
- Study coordinator: Macmanes, Matthew David
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.