Understanding how fat cells manage energy in obesity and diabetes
Official title: Lipid storage and utilization in physiology and obesity
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11046606 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called Clstn3β helps fat cells work, which could lead to new ways to treat obesity and diabetes, so people with these conditions might have better options for managing their health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $553,800 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136150-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046606 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with obesity or diabetes who are interested in understanding the biological mechanisms behind their conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have obesity or diabetes may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that control the development and function of fat cells, particularly in the context of obesity and diabetes. It focuses on a specific protein, Clstn3β, which plays a crucial role in how fat cells store and utilize lipids, impacting energy expenditure. By studying how these processes work at a molecular level, the research aims to uncover new pathways that could lead to better management of metabolic diseases. Patients may benefit from insights that could inform new treatments or interventions for obesity and diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating obesity and diabetes by improving our understanding of fat cell metabolism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding lipid metabolism and its implications for obesity and diabetes, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tontonoz, Peter J — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Tontonoz, Peter J
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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.