Understanding how immune cells process fats in obesity-related diseases
Harnessing macrophage lysosomal lipid metabolism in obesity-associated diseases
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called macrophages handle fats in people with obesity-related conditions like type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease, with the hope of finding new ways to improve health by helping these cells work better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10868727 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of macrophages, a type of immune cell, in processing lipids in the context of obesity-related metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease. The study aims to enhance the lipid metabolism capabilities of these macrophages to potentially improve metabolic health. By examining how these immune cells respond to lipid overload in tissues, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic strategies that could alleviate inflammation and metabolic dysfunction. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to novel treatments targeting immune cell function in obesity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from obesity-related metabolic disorders, particularly those with type 2 diabetes or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by obesity or related metabolic disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve metabolic health and reduce complications associated with obesity-related diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in enhancing immune cell function to improve metabolic outcomes, suggesting that this approach may be viable.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schilling, Joel David — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Schilling, Joel David
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.