Understanding how intermuscular fat affects muscle health and diabetes

Intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT): protagonist in sarcopenia and insulin resistance in humans

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10448489

This study is looking at how a specific type of fat in our muscles might affect muscle strength and how our bodies use insulin, which could help find new ways to treat muscle loss and type 2 diabetes, and it may involve patients providing tissue samples or taking part in related tests.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10448489 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of intermuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) in contributing to muscle loss and insulin resistance. By analyzing the substances secreted by IMAT compared to other types of fat, the study aims to uncover how this fat impacts muscle strength and metabolic health. The research involves laboratory techniques to measure inflammation and muscle protein levels, which could lead to new treatments for conditions like sarcopenia and type 2 diabetes. Patients may be involved in providing tissue samples or participating in related assessments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults experiencing muscle weakness or those at risk for type 2 diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing muscle-related issues or do not have risk factors for diabetes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve muscle health and insulin sensitivity, potentially reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes and sarcopenia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of different types of adipose tissue in metabolic health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.