Understanding how genetics affect brown fat function in humans
Official title: A Systems Approach for Elucidating Genetic Determinants of Human Brown Adipose Tissue Function
Funded at Rockefeller University · NIH-10937148 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes affect brown fat, which helps us manage weight and stay healthy, and it's for people interested in understanding more about obesity and diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $604,853 |
| NIH project number | 1DP1DK139983-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10937148 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults with varying levels of brown adipose tissue activity, particularly those with obesity or type 2 diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any metabolic disorders or those without brown adipose tissue may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that influence the function of brown adipose tissue (BAT) in humans, which is important for combating obesity and related diseases. By studying individuals with high BAT activity, researchers aim to identify genetic variants that may enhance our understanding of how BAT contributes to metabolic health. The study employs innovative methods to analyze data from diverse human cohorts, linking genetic information to metabolic traits and disease susceptibility. This approach could lead to the discovery of biomarkers for BAT function and new strategies for treating obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for obesity and type 2 diabetes by targeting the genetic regulation of brown fat.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brown fat function in animal models, but this approach in humans is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Rockefeller University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cohen, Paul — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Cohen, Paul
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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.