Understanding how low oxygen levels affect fat metabolism and obesity.
Official title: Investigating the role of BCAA metabolism in regulating adiposity during systemic hypoxia.
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10901115 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how low oxygen levels, like those at high altitudes, affect how our bodies use fat and manage weight, using mice to find out how these changes could help people with obesity and related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship 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 | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $41,324 |
| NIH project number | 1F30DK139713-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901115 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic disorders, particularly those with adult-onset diabetes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how low oxygen levels, such as those found at high altitudes, influence fat metabolism and obesity. By studying mice, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that lead to reduced body weight and lower blood sugar levels under hypoxic conditions. They will analyze the metabolic changes in fat tissue, focusing on branched-chain amino acids and their derivatives, which may play a crucial role in regulating metabolism. The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets for obesity and related metabolic disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for obesity and related metabolic diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic changes under hypoxic conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Midha, Ayush — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Midha, Ayush
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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.