Obesity & Glucose Metabolism

Investigating glucose metabolism and neuropeptide signaling in HFD knockout mice.

Brief

My first co-lead research project investigated how nesfatin-1, a neuropeptide involved in appetite regulation and energy balance, affects glucose metabolism in high-fat diet (HFD) knockout mouse models. We demonstrated that the ghrelin receptor (GHSR) is required for nesfatin-1’s effects on glucose regulation, revealing novel links between peptide signaling and metabolic control.

Significance

  • Nesfatin-1 background: Identified in 2006, nesfatin-1 is a neuropeptide that influences food intake, energy homeostasis, and glucose metabolism. It acts both centrally and peripherally, intersecting with other metabolic hormones such as ghrelin.
  • Our findings: By combining HFD mouse models with targeted receptor knockouts, we clarified the role of ghrelin receptor signaling in mediating nesfatin-1’s metabolic effects.

Personal Reflection

This study is especially meaningful to me:

  • It was a team project led by four undergrads, all of us have remained close friends and are now pursuing careers in research. We were fortunate to be mentored by Professor Jing Dong, who introduced us to science and gave us the chance to lead an animal study from start to finish - a rare opportunity for undergrads.
  • I am proud of what we achieved together: designing the experiments, carrying out phenotyping and assays, and publishing our findings as co-first authors. This project taught me not only experimental skills but also the value of collaboration, mentorship, and shared curiosity.

Key Publication

  • Fan XT, Tian Z, Li SZ, Zhai T (co-first), et al.
    Ghrelin receptor is required for the effects of nesfatin-1 on glucose metabolism.
    Frontiers in Endocrinology 2018.
    DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00633

Status

Published • A foundational experience that shaped my interest in physiology and translational science.