Understanding how lysosomes help fat cells release energy
Defining the molecular regulation and physiological role of a novel lysosomal mechanism of adipocyte lipolysis
This study is looking at how tiny parts of our cells called lysosomes help fat cells break down fat for energy when we don’t eat, and it hopes to find new ways to improve fat metabolism that could help people dealing with obesity and related health issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11189728 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of lysosomes in the process by which fat cells, or adipocytes, release energy during fasting. It aims to uncover how these cellular structures contribute to lipolysis, the breakdown of fats, particularly when traditional pathways are impaired. By studying the molecular mechanisms involved, the research seeks to identify new ways to enhance fat metabolism and address issues related to obesity and cardiometabolic diseases. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to novel treatments for conditions linked to fat metabolism.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals struggling with obesity or metabolic disorders, particularly those with impaired fat metabolism.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues related to fat metabolism or obesity may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing obesity and related metabolic disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding lipid metabolism, but this specific focus on lysosomal mechanisms is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Steinhauser, Matthew — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Steinhauser, Matthew
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.