Understanding How Fat Cells Change and Grow
Analysis of Cellular Plasticity in White Adipose Tissue.
This project aims to understand how fat cells in the body are formed, maintained, and change over time, especially in adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121955 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies' fat tissue is very dynamic, constantly changing and adapting. This project explores how these changes happen at a cellular level, focusing on the interactions between different types of cells within fat tissue. We are using advanced technologies, including detailed 3D mapping of cells and new CRISPR-based tools, to trace the origins and relationships of fat cells throughout life. By understanding these fundamental processes, we hope to uncover why fat tissue sometimes remodels in unhealthy ways. This work will provide a comprehensive view of how fat cells develop and change.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients, but future studies building on this knowledge may seek adults interested in contributing to research on fat tissue health and metabolism.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention for a specific condition would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of conditions like obesity and metabolic diseases, potentially paving the way for new treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While single-cell profiling has advanced our understanding, this project uses newly developed CRISPR/Cas9-based technologies and high-resolution spatial mapping to address controversial areas in fat cell origins, making its approach novel.
Where this research is happening
Detroit, United States
- Wayne State University — Detroit, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Granneman, James G — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Granneman, James G
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.