# Leptin and Insulin Signaling in SF1 Neurons and Energy Homeostasis

> **NIH NIH R01** · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · 2020 · $409,591

## Abstract

Abstract
The endocannabinoid system, consisting of the CB1R and lipid derived endogenous cannabinoid molecules,
has been shown to significantly contribute to the development of diabetes and obesity. Although CB1R inverse
agonists are effective at improving insulin sensitivity and protecting against diet induced obesity, these drugs
have severe side effects associated with the widespread distribution of CB1Rs in the CNS and the periphery.
The goal of this application is to investigate the role of CB1Rs in the SF1 neurons of the ventromedial
hypothalamus to regulate energy homeostasis. We will also examine if this subset of neurons is responsible for
the metabolic improvements associated with CB1R inverse agonists. We anticipate the results from our
investigation will provide novel insight to the development of effective therapies to combat metabolic disease
while circumventing potential side effects.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 9877006
- **Project number:** 5R01DK100659-06
- **Recipient organization:** UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER
- **Principal Investigator:** JOEL K. ELMQUIST
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2020
- **Award amount:** $409,591
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2014-07-08 → 2023-01-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/9877006

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 9877006, Leptin and Insulin Signaling in SF1 Neurons and Energy Homeostasis (5R01DK100659-06). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/9877006. Licensed CC0.

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