# Regulation of Adipose-Lymphatic Cross-talk

> **NIH NIH R01** · BETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER · 2024 · $462,001

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
Adipose tissue is complex and heterogenous, containing numerous structures and cell types
besides adipocytes. This includes lymphatic vessels, which return interstitial fluid, solutes, and
immune cells back to circulation. There is a well-documented but unexplained bidirectional
relationship between adipocytes and lymphatic vessels, such that poor lymphatic function leads
to increased adiposity. Conversely, obesity results in impaired lymphatic flow. The molecular
basis for these interactions is unknown. Our single cell RNA sequencing data from mouse and
human adipose tissue revealed that lymphatic endothelial cells express the neuropeptide
neurotensin (NTS). We show that NTS is a potent anti-thermogenic agent, and its expression is
suppressed by cold temperatures. Here we will characterize the mechanisms regulating NTS
expression and processing, and we will utilize state of the art techniques to document the effects
of losing NTS in lymphatic vessels or its receptor on adipocytes. These studies will help explain
the puzzling relationship between fat and the lymphatic system, and will also lead to new insights
into control of adipose physiology and metabolism by neuropeptides.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10834889
- **Project number:** 5R01DK126789-04
- **Recipient organization:** BETH ISRAEL DEACONESS MEDICAL CENTER
- **Principal Investigator:** Evan D Rosen
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $462,001
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2021-07-15 → 2026-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10834889

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10834889, Regulation of Adipose-Lymphatic Cross-talk (5R01DK126789-04). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10834889. Licensed CC0.

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