# CNS Mechanisms Linking Exercise Training with Energy Balance and Metabolism

> **NIH NIH P01** · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · 2021 · $1,956,416

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
We have assembled a multidisciplinary team of investigators to investigate how the brain and key peripheral
metabolic signals regulate feeding and glucose homeostasis following exercise. In particular, we have
developed a program focused on using unique, genetic mouse models to understand why exercise training
improves multiple metabolic parameters including insulin sensitivity and changes in body composition. We
propose a set of projects that revolve around the hypothesis that several of these exercise-associated effects
are mediated by changes in key brain circuits. The investigators involved in this application, Elmquist, Betley
Zigman, and Williams bring distinct and synergistic expertise to the table. The Elmquist/Betley group will
investigate the role of the ventromedial hypothalamus nucleus (VMH) neurons in the regulation of metabolic
changes induced by exercise. The Zigman group will investigate the physiological importance of ghrelin
signaling in regulating responses to exercise. The Williams group will investigate the changes in fundamental
cellular properties of hypothalamic neurons following exercise training These three tightly interwoven Projects
will address a number of new aspects of inter-organ communication between the peripheral tissues and critical
regions in the brain. Three Cores will support the three Projects in these efforts: A) Administrative Core; B)
Mouse Exercise and Metabolic Phenotyping Core and the C) Neuroanatomy/Histology/Brain Injection
Core. In summary, these innovative and synergistic studies will increase the understanding of how exercise
training regulates key peripheral metabolic signals via changes in central nervous system circuits.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10242067
- **Project number:** 5P01DK119130-03
- **Recipient organization:** UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
- **Principal Investigator:** JOEL K. ELMQUIST
- **Activity code:** P01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $1,956,416
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2019-09-20 → 2024-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10242067

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10242067, CNS Mechanisms Linking Exercise Training with Energy Balance and Metabolism (5P01DK119130-03). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10242067. Licensed CC0.

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