Understanding how fat cells can burn energy to help with obesity
Official title: Elucidating the Transcriptional Brakes on Adipocyte Thermogenesis
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11060078 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called ZFP423 helps fat cells change from storing energy to burning it, which could lead to new ways to help people manage their weight and tackle obesity-related issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | April 6, 2023 |
| Project end | April 5, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $54,538 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DK136168-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11060078 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who are struggling with obesity or related metabolic conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not overweight or do not have metabolic disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that control how fat cells, particularly white adipocytes, can adopt a thermogenic phenotype similar to brown fat cells, which burn energy instead of storing it. The study focuses on a specific protein, ZFP423, that regulates the balance between energy-storing and energy-burning fat cells. By exploring how this protein interacts with other factors in the cells, the research aims to identify potential targets for obesity interventions. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for weight management and obesity-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating obesity by promoting energy expenditure in fat cells.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting fat cell mechanisms for obesity treatment, indicating that this approach could be a viable avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Truong, Ashley T — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Truong, Ashley T
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.