Understanding how fat droplets are broken down in cells
Official title: Mechanisms of endosomal trafficking in lipid droplet catabolism
Funded at University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-11077853 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our cells break down fat storage to use for energy, especially when food is scarce, and it aims to find out how this process could help people with obesity and diabetes better manage their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $381,931 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM150801-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077853 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with obesity or metabolic disorders such as diabetes who are interested in understanding the underlying mechanisms of fat metabolism.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have metabolic disorders or obesity may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which lipid droplets, which store fats in cells, are broken down and utilized for energy. The study focuses on the role of specific proteins and lipids that influence the trafficking and degradation of these droplets, particularly during times of low nutrient availability. By examining how lipid droplets interact with cellular machinery, the research aims to uncover critical processes that could impact conditions like obesity and diabetes. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how fat metabolism can be regulated at the cellular level.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing obesity and diabetes by improving our understanding of fat metabolism.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding lipid metabolism, but this specific approach to studying lipid droplet catabolism is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schott, Micah — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Schott, Micah
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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.