Understanding how fat metabolism affects insulin in muscles
Lands cycle and skeletal muscle insulin action
This research explores how a specific fat process in muscle cells might lead to insulin resistance, a key factor in type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126769 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our muscles need insulin to use sugar for energy, but in type 2 diabetes, muscles become resistant to insulin. We are looking into how changes in fat metabolism, specifically a process called the Lands cycle, might make muscle cells less responsive to insulin. We believe that by understanding and potentially adjusting this fat cycle, we could find new ways to improve how muscles react to insulin. This work involves studying how the Lands cycle affects cell signals and testing if blocking this cycle could help improve high blood sugar in animal models, as well as seeing if exercise can slow down this cycle to boost insulin sensitivity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for individuals with or at risk for type 2 diabetes, particularly those experiencing insulin resistance in their muscles.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention will not find direct benefit from this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments or strategies to improve insulin sensitivity in people with type 2 diabetes.
How similar studies have performed: Our laboratory has previously published findings linking accelerated lyso-phospholipid metabolism to insulin receptor desensitization and diabetes.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Funai, Katsuhiko — Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Funai, Katsuhiko
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.