Actively Recruiting
The Molecular, Cellular, and Genetic Characterization of Human Adipose Tissue and Its Role in Metabolism
Led by National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) · Updated on 2026-05-12
300
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are studying how fat and muscle tissues affect metabolism, focusing on how these tissues store and use energy. This research aims to better understand obesity and related conditions by exploring the roles of different types of fat, including brown fat, which burns calories to produce heat. The study investigates how brown fat functions in adults and its potential to influence other organs and metabolic health. Participants include adults aged 18 to 90 who are undergoing planned surgeries where fat and muscle tissue can be safely collected without adding extra risk or time to the procedure. Samples of fat and muscle tissue will be collected during surgery, with muscle taken only from tissue that would otherwise be discarded. Blood samples will also be collected after surgery either in the pre-operative, post-operative, or hospital stay periods. Participants will not need extra visits beyond their scheduled surgery appointments. Researchers will use the collected tissue and blood samples to create a detailed genetic and functional map of brown and white fat, examine factors influencing brown fat growth and function, and identify substances released by brown fat that may regulate metabolism. The study monitors these outcomes using tissue collected during surgery and blood drawn after the procedure, with the goal of advancing knowledge about metabolism and obesity.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Molecular, Cellular, and Genetic Characterization of Human Adipose Tissue and Its Role in Metabolism
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Male or female, any ethnicity
- Age 18 years or older
- Undergoing a planned, clinically-indicated surgical procedure at the NIH Clinical Center where tissue can be collected by the surgeon
- For non-surgical participants, age between 18 and 80 years
- For adipose biopsy, have 18F-FDG PET/CT scan images available from a separate protocol
You will not qualify if you...
- Inability to provide informed consent
- Pregnancy
- History of keloids
- Currently taking blood thinning or anti-inflammatory medications including anti-platelet or antithrombotic drugs
- History of pacemaker, metallic heart valves, aneurysm clips, pedicle screws, metallic foreign body in eye, or other metallic implants when fusion technology is used for biopsy
- Psychological conditions such as clinical depression, bipolar disorder, or other mental incapacity incompatible with safe participation
- Addiction to alcohol or substances within the last 5 years or current use with CAGE score >= 2
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Day of procedure
Participants undergo collection of adipose tissue samples during clinically-indicated surgical procedures or through biopsy for molecular and genetic analysis of brown and white fat.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - Up to several months depending on individual circumstances
Participants are observed to understand the role of adipose tissue in metabolism and related physiological factors.
Follow-up visits as needed
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
National Institutes of Health Clinical Center
Bethesda, Maryland, United States, 20892
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
A
Ashley M Schmitz, C.R.N.P.
A
Aaron M Cypess, M.D.
How is the study designed?
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Masking
N/A
Allocation
N/A
Model
N/A
Primary Purpose
N/A
Number of Arms
2
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