Understanding how different types of fat cells affect metabolism and diabetes
Official title: Investigating the regulation of distinct human adipocyte subpopulations
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11213430 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at different types of fat cells in our bodies to understand how they affect metabolism and conditions like Type 2 diabetes, especially how these cells change when people lose weight after surgery, which could help explain why some folks are more likely to develop metabolic issues than others.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $144,515 |
| NIH project number | 7K01DK134806-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11213430 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals undergoing bariatric surgery or those with varying body mass indices interested in metabolic health.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing weight loss interventions or do not have metabolic conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of various subpopulations of fat cells in the body, particularly how they relate to metabolism and conditions like Type 2 diabetes. By analyzing fat tissue samples from both lean and obese individuals using advanced techniques like single nucleus RNA sequencing, the study aims to create a detailed map of these fat cell types. The research will also explore how these cells change during weight loss, especially after bariatric surgery, and how genetic factors may influence their behavior. This could provide insights into why some people are more prone to metabolic diseases than others.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating Type 2 diabetes by targeting specific fat cell types.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding fat cell biology and its implications for metabolic diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Emont, Margo Preminger — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Emont, Margo Preminger
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.