Understanding how fatty acids are processed in muscle diseases

Relevance of fatty acid handling in the adaptive response to mitochondrial dysfunction

NIH-funded research Thomas Jefferson University · NIH-11043417

This study looks at how the body handles fats when muscle cells aren't working as well as they should, and it aims to find ways to help people with mitochondrial myopathy by understanding how the liver and heart can support muscle energy production.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionThomas Jefferson University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11043417 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how fatty acids are managed in the body when there is a deficiency in mitochondrial function, particularly in skeletal muscle. It focuses on the relationship between fatty acid metabolism and the ability of muscles to produce energy through glucose and fatty acids. By examining how the liver and heart adapt to support muscle function, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could help mitigate stress responses in muscle cells. Patients with mitochondrial myopathy may find this research relevant as it explores potential metabolic adaptations that could improve their condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with primary mitochondrial disease, particularly those experiencing mitochondrial myopathy.

Not a fit: Patients without mitochondrial dysfunction or those with unrelated metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing energy production in patients with mitochondrial diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic adaptations in similar conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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 2026-06-13 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.