Evaluation of Nr6a1-Dependent Thermogenic Activity in Brown Adipocytes

• Grant number: 25/09842-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2025
• End date: June 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Physiology - Physiology of Organs and Systems
• Principal Investigator: Carlos Henrique Grossi Sponton
• Grantee: Valeska Maia de Almeida
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto (FMRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 19/15025-5 - Unveiling the PRDM16 transcriptional complex related to the inhibition of ceramides synthesis genes in adipocytes, AP.JP

Abstract

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) plays a fundamental role in adaptive thermogenesis, increasing whole-body energy expenditure through the activity of the UCP-1 protein. Previous studies suggest that BAT activation may contribute to improved energy homeostasis, representing a promising approach for the treatment of obesity and associated metabolic disorders. In silico analyses conducted by the research group identified the orphan nuclear receptor Nr6a1 as a potential regulator of thermogenic activity in BAT. This project aims to investigate the function of Nr6a1 in brown adipocytes through loss-of-function assays using RNA interference technology (shRNA). The molecular and functional consequences of Nr6a1 inhibition will be analyzed, including gene and protein expression of thermogenic markers as well as cellular oxygen consumption. The findings may contribute to a deeper understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in thermogenesis and help identify novel therapeutic targets with translational potential. (AU)