Understanding how organelles interact to regulate metabolism
Official title: Spatiotemporal Regulation of Organelle Interactions and Metabolism
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11091151 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how tiny fat storage structures in our cells work with other parts of the cell to manage fat in the body, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with metabolic issues like obesity and heart disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $484,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R35GM158363-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11091151 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals suffering from metabolic disorders like obesity, insulin resistance, or atherosclerosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with metabolic conditions unrelated to lipid metabolism may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind lipid metabolism, particularly focusing on how lipid droplets (LDs) interact with other cellular organelles. By studying the protein networks on the surface of LDs, the research aims to uncover how these interactions influence the storage and breakdown of lipids in the body. Patients with metabolic diseases, such as obesity and atherosclerosis, may benefit from insights gained through this research, as it seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving lipid metabolism.
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 gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding lipid metabolism and its implications for metabolic diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kast, David J — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Kast, David J
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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.