Understanding how specific protein modifications affect fat tissue health
Official title: Novel Posttranslational Modifications in Adipose Biology
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11070379 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special change in a protein helps keep fat tissue healthy, which is important for preventing issues like insulin resistance and heart problems, and it could lead to new treatments for obesity-related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $445,060 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135657-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11070379 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing issues related to adipose tissue health, such as obesity or metabolic syndrome.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are under 21 years old or do not have any adipose tissue-related health issues may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific protein modification called neddylation in maintaining healthy adipose tissue, which is crucial for metabolic health. The study focuses on how this modification affects the function and turnover of fat cells, particularly in the context of diseases like insulin resistance and cardiometabolic disorders. By using animal models, the researchers will explore the mechanisms by which neddylation influences mitochondrial function and overall adipose tissue health. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new treatments for obesity-related conditions.
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 gone: While the specific focus on neddylation in adipose tissue is relatively novel, similar research has shown promising results in understanding protein modifications and their impact on metabolic health.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Weiqin — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Chen, Weiqin
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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.