Understanding how new lipids affect insulin resistance and diabetes

Mechanisms for the regulation of novel lipids in vivo

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · BETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11081778

This study is looking at a new type of fat in the body called PAHSAs to see how it affects insulin sensitivity and resistance in people with type 2 diabetes, with the hope that understanding this could help create better treatments for managing the condition.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11081778 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a newly discovered class of lipids, known as Palmitic Acid Hydroxy Stearic Acids (PAHSAs), in regulating insulin sensitivity and resistance, particularly in the context of type 2 diabetes. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that control PAHSA levels in the body and identify the enzymes involved in their production and breakdown. By using genetic mouse models that mimic human metabolic variations, the research seeks to provide insights into how these lipids can be manipulated to improve insulin sensitivity and potentially prevent or treat diabetes. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for managing diabetes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of or currently living with type 2 diabetes, particularly those experiencing insulin resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with type 1 diabetes or those whose diabetes is not related to insulin resistance may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve insulin sensitivity and help manage or prevent type 2 diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in targeting lipid metabolism for improving insulin sensitivity, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: adult onset diabetes, Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.