Understanding how integrins affect insulin sensitivity
Official title: Integrin regulation of insulin sensitivity
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10849837 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein helps control insulin sensitivity and weight, with the hope of finding new ways to improve insulin function and lower the risk of heart problems for people with diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $520,022 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK125310-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10849837 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing insulin resistance or obesity, particularly those at risk for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing insulin resistance or obesity may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of integrins, specifically the αvβ5 integrin, in regulating insulin sensitivity and obesity. It aims to understand how insulin influences the movement of a protein called MFGE8, which interacts with the integrin and affects insulin receptor signaling in skeletal muscle. By exploring this pathway, the research seeks to identify potential interventions that could improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases associated with diabetes. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for insulin resistance.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving insulin sensitivity and reducing the risk of diabetes-related cardiovascular diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of integrins in insulin signaling, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Atabai, Kamran — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Atabai, Kamran
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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.