Understanding the Genes and Metabolism Behind Familial Lipodystrophies

Genetic and Metabolic Basis of Familial Lipodystrophies

NIH-funded research Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11007265

This project helps us understand the genetic and metabolic reasons why some people have familial lipodystrophies, which are conditions where the body has too little fat and can lead to problems like type 2 diabetes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project IDNIH-11007265 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Familial lipodystrophies are conditions where the body has too little fat, either partially or almost completely, leading to health issues like type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Our team is working to uncover the specific genes and metabolic pathways that cause these rare conditions. By identifying these genetic roots, we hope to better understand how the body processes fat and sugar. This knowledge is crucial for developing new ways to help people living with lipodystrophies manage their health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Individuals with familial lipodystrophies or those experiencing metabolic complications like type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, or hepatic steatosis due to fat distribution issues may be ideal candidates for future related studies.

Not a fit: Patients whose metabolic complications are not linked to genetic lipodystrophy syndromes may not directly benefit from this specific genetic and metabolic research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new diagnostic tools and targeted treatments for individuals with familial lipodystrophies and related metabolic complications.

How similar studies have performed: Our laboratory has a strong track record, having previously identified several genes linked to various types of lipodystrophies, indicating a foundation of prior success in this field.

Where this research is happening

Dallas, 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.
Conditions Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
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.