New research in mice demonstrates potential for increasing effectiveness of popular diabetes and weight-loss drugs
Adjusting the melanocortin system makes mice more sensitive to GLP-1 drugs and other hormones that affect feeding behavior, according to a new study from the LSI. The researchers are optimistic that the results will translate well to patients.
New research uncovers a path to lowering obesity in mice by increasing the effects of a key weight-regulating hormone
A new study led by the LSI demonstrates that blocking the activity of an enzyme inside fat cells can decrease obesity and related health disorders in mice.
Protein in the brain uses energy status to influence maturation, body size, new research shows
Scientists have identified how a protein in the brain uses information about the body’s energy balance to regulate growth rate and the onset of puberty in children.
Philanthropic support funds two LSI research projects with the potential to impact human health
Two new research projects are moving forward at the U-M Life Sciences Institute, with support from philanthropic funds established specifically to high-risk, high-reward research.
Scientists find new point of access for targeting eating disorders and obesity
Scientists have identified a protein called the melanocortin 3 receptor as a potential drug target for treating obesity and eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa.
Neural networks form and rebound in response to feeding and hunger, new research shows
A new study from the University of Michigan offers insights into how neural circuitry in the brain operates and responds to feeding and hunger in real-time.
Discovery of protein’s configuration could lead to more effective anti-obesity treatments
An international team of researchers has unveiled the precise shape of a key player in human metabolism, which could open the door to better treatments for obesity and other metabolic disorders.
Philanthropy fuels early-stage drug-discovery research for addressing obesity
Research investigator Isin Cakir, Ph.D., has been awarded the the 2019 Klatskin-Sutker Discovery Fund award to develop a suite of new molecules targeting obesity.
New award recognizes LSI community’s outreach activities
LSI Outreach Awards recognize the value of our community members' efforts to connect research, teaching and service to the public
LSI Cubed funds new round of trainee-initiated, multi-lab research projects
Four teams of graduate students and postdoctoral fellows will soon launch their own cross-lab, interdisciplinary projects, with funding from the LSI Cubed program.
Receptor protein in the brain controls the body’s fat ‘rheostat’
Scientists revealed that a receptor protein in the brain acts as the body’s “energy rheostat,” ensuring that the balance of energy and fat does not drift too far above or below its homeostatic set point. The findings open new doors for developing anti-obesity drugs.
Diverse perspectives drive discovery in the Cone lab
Roger Cone is not only the director of the LSI — he is also a distinguished researcher with an active research program that thrives on diverse viewpoints and areas of expertise.
Gene mutation thought to protect heart may actually increase susceptibility to heart failure, researchers find
A mutation underlying the most common genetic cause of early-onset obesity was thought to potentially protect patients from heart disease. New research shows otherwise.
One amino acid, a whale of a difference
International research team reveals why some species of cetaceans evolved sleek, muscular bodies while others grow to massive sizes
Roger Cone named vice provost, director of the biosciences initiative
LSI Director Roger Cone named to an additional role as the university's first vice provost and director of the biosciences initiative.
Two U-Michigan faculty elected to prestigious National Academy of Medicine
LSI Director Roger Cone is among the new members of the National Academy of Medicine of the National Academies, one of the highest honors in the fields of health and medicine.