Understanding how leptin moves into the brain and its effects on obesity
Gating of Leptin Transport into the Cerebrospinal Fluid at the Choroid Plexus
This study is looking at how a hormone called leptin, which helps control hunger and energy, gets into the brain and how this process might be different for people who struggle with obesity, so we can better understand why some people don't respond to leptin like they should.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11059252 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which leptin, a hormone that regulates hunger and energy balance, is transported into the cerebrospinal fluid and brain. It focuses on the choroid plexus, a structure in the brain that plays a key role in this transport process. By examining how this transport is gated and how it affects brain signaling related to reward and appetite, the study aims to uncover why some individuals become resistant to leptin's effects, particularly in the context of obesity. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the transport pathways and their implications for energy regulation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing issues related to obesity and leptin resistance.
Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or do not have issues with leptin signaling may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating obesity by improving leptin transport and its effectiveness in the brain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding leptin transport mechanisms, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Harvard Medical School — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kalugin, Peter Nikolaevich — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Kalugin, Peter Nikolaevich
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.