Federal Grant Award Summary

UC Berkeley has been awarded $794,101 by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) under the Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases Extramural Research program (CFDA 93.847) to conduct fundamental biomedical research on the regulation of insulin sensitivity by Neuritin 1 (NRN1), a novel adipokine. The project, which commenced June 5, 2026 and extends through April 30, 2030, will advance understanding of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus pathogenesis by investigating NRN1's physiological role and molecular mechanisms in adipose tissue function and systemic insulin sensitivity.

The research deliverables encompass three integrated aims: (1) defining NRN1's physiological role in adipose tissue biology and systemic insulin sensitivity through characterization of cell-autonomous functions and assessment of metabolic consequences in mouse genetic models with adipocyte-specific gain- and loss-of-function mutations; (2) elucidating the mechanisms by which NRN1 regulates insulin sensitivity, with focus on fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 (FGFR1)-mediated effects on adipocyte differentiation, lipolysis, and inflammation; and (3) evaluating systemic delivery of NRN1 via adeno-associated virus (AAV) as a potential therapeutic intervention. The project will generate scientific knowledge and preliminary data that may inform future development of metabolic disease treatments while supporting NIDDK's mission to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of diabetes and related metabolic disorders.