Understanding how lipid droplets are formed and broken down in the body
Regulation of Lipid Droplet Biogenesis and Lipophagy
This study is looking at how certain proteins help your body store and break down fat, which is important for keeping your energy balanced, and it could help people with conditions like obesity and heart disease understand more about how their bodies handle fat.
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-10794995 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind lipid droplet biogenesis and lipophagy, which are crucial for maintaining energy balance in the body. It focuses on two specific proteins, DFCP1 and WHAMM, that play significant roles in the formation and breakdown of these lipid storage organelles. By studying how these proteins function, the research aims to uncover new insights into lipid metabolism, particularly in the context of metabolic diseases like obesity and atherosclerosis. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how their bodies manage fat storage and energy use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from metabolic disorders such as obesity, insulin resistance, or atherosclerosis.
Not a fit: Patients with metabolic disorders unrelated to lipid metabolism may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for metabolic diseases by improving our understanding of lipid metabolism.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding lipid metabolism, making this approach a continuation of established scientific inquiry.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kast, David J — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Kast, David J
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.