Understanding how skin fat develops and functions

Developmental origins of dermal adipose tissue

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11258438

This study is looking into the fat just under your skin to understand how it forms and affects weight gain, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with obesity and related health issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11258438 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the origins and characteristics of dermal adipose tissue, which is the fat located just beneath the skin. By examining how this type of fat develops and its role in metabolism, the research aims to uncover why some individuals gain weight and develop obesity-related conditions. The study will utilize advanced techniques to analyze adipocyte progenitor cells and their behavior in different metabolic states. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for obesity and related metabolic disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who are experiencing obesity or related metabolic conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing and treating obesity and its associated health issues.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding adipose tissue dynamics, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, 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 →

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.