Understanding how the brain and gut communicate to regulate metabolism

Internal State Sensing Via The Gut-Brain Axis

NIH-funded research Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10670336

This study is looking at how the brain and gut work together to manage energy in our bodies, especially how our senses can affect metabolism, and it aims to help people understand conditions like diabetes and heart disease as we age.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionScripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10670336 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the connection between the brain and gut in regulating energy metabolism, particularly how sensory information influences metabolic processes. Using a model organism called C. elegans, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms of neuroendocrine communication that can lead to metabolic disorders. The researchers focus on identifying specific neuronal circuits and peptides that play a role in this communication, which could provide insights into diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular issues. By exploring these interactions, the research seeks to enhance our understanding of metabolic dysregulation and its impact on aging.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing metabolic disorders or age-related diseases such as diabetes or cardiovascular conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with metabolic conditions unrelated to the gut-brain axis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating age-related metabolic diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut-brain axis and its role in metabolism, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.