Understanding how thyroid hormones affect brown fat in humans
Official title: The Interaction Between the Thyroid Axis and Brown Adipose Tissue in Humans
Funded at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-10792044 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how thyroid hormone levels affect a special type of fat in our bodies that helps burn energy, and it's for adults with thyroid issues who are having surgery, to see how this might help with weight and overall health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $145,636 |
| NIH project number | 1R03TR004808-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10792044 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults with hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism who require thyroid surgery.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without thyroid disorders or those not requiring thyroid surgery may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between thyroid hormone levels and the activity of brown adipose tissue (BAT) in adults. By examining patients with hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism who are undergoing thyroid surgery, the study will collect tissue samples and measure various metabolic parameters. The goal is to understand how thyroid hormones influence BAT's role in energy expenditure and thermogenesis, which could have implications for weight management and metabolic health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into metabolic health and potential treatments for obesity and related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results regarding the role of thyroid hormones in regulating brown fat activity, indicating that this research builds on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gavrila-Filip, Alina — Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Gavrila-Filip, Alina
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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.