SADIE-The Effects of SGLT2 Inhibition on Adipose Inflammation and Endothelial Function
Obesity is linked to chronic, low-grade inflammation that drives many serious health problems, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease and fatty liver disease. No treatments currently target this inflammation to prevent or reverse these obesity-associated complications.
Our lab is studying whether the SGLT2 inhibitor empagliflozin—a medication approved for type 2 diabetes, heart failure and kidney disease—can also reduce inflammation in people with obesity and metabolic syndrome.
This SADIE study explores whether empagliflozin can lower inflammation in adipose (fat) tissue, improve blood vessel function (a marker of heart health), and reduce liver fat and inflammation. Participants receive either empagliflozin or placebo for 12 weeks and undergo blood draws, fat tissue sampling and vascular ultrasound testing.
By understanding how empagliflozin affects immune cells, this study aims to uncover new ways to prevent or treat obesity-associated inflammation and related complications.
If you’re interested in learning more or participating, we’d love to connect. Together, we’re working to turn everyday medications into powerful tools for better long-term health. Please contact us for more information.
ELATE-Immunologic Effects of GLP-1 Receptor Activation in Obesity
How do weight loss medications affect the immune system? We’re studying more than just weight loss. Our team is exploring how medications like Ozempic® (semaglutide), Wegovy®, and Mounjaro® (tirzepatide)—commonly used for weight loss and type 2 diabetes—might also improve immune health in people with obesity.
Obesity doesn’t just affect how we look or feel—it also leads to inflammation in the body that can raise the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems. Some research suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists, the medications behind these popular brand names, may help reduce harmful inflammation. But we don’t fully understand how, or which parts of the immune system are involved.
In this ELATE clinical study, we’re inviting people with obesity who are planning to start a GLP-1 medication or undergo weight loss surgery to join our study. We collect blood samples at baseline, three months and six months and look closely at the immune cells to see how they change with treatment.
Our goal is to learn whether these medications do more than lower weight and blood sugar—could they calm down the immune system and lower inflammation too? If so, this might explain why they’re so effective at protecting against heart disease and other complications.