Understanding how fat cells regulate heat production

Transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of thermogenic adipocyte program

NIH-funded research Joslin Diabetes Center · NIH-11064827

This study is looking at how special fat cells help keep our body warm and burn energy, and it aims to find new ways to treat obesity and related health issues by understanding the genes that control these fat cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJoslin Diabetes Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11064827 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which certain fat cells, known as thermogenic adipocytes, help regulate body temperature and energy expenditure. It focuses on the genetic and epigenetic factors that control the function of these fat cells, particularly how they respond to hormonal signals. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR, the study aims to uncover the underlying processes that could lead to new treatments for obesity and related metabolic diseases. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to therapies targeting fat metabolism and energy regulation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for obesity and related metabolic disorders, improving health outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of thermogenic adipocytes in metabolism, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.