Understanding how the liver processes fatty acids
Official title: Novel roles of hepatic fatty acid oxidation
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11134914 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the liver helps break down fats when we don't eat, using special mice to see how this affects our metabolism and blood sugar, which could help us understand issues like obesity and diabetes better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $409,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R56DK138507-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134914 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with metabolic disorders related to fatty acid oxidation or those at risk for obesity and glucose intolerance.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without metabolic disorders or those who do not have issues related to fatty acid metabolism may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the liver's role in metabolizing fatty acids, particularly during periods of fasting. By using genetically modified mice, the study aims to explore how changes in fatty acid oxidation affect overall metabolism and the regulation of blood sugar levels. The researchers will analyze the impact of these metabolic processes on conditions like obesity and glucose intolerance, which are significant health concerns. The findings could provide insights into how liver function influences energy balance and metabolic health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing obesity and diabetes by targeting liver metabolism.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic processes related to fatty acid oxidation, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wolfgang, Michael J. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Wolfgang, Michael 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.