Cell Signals and Liver Scarring in NASH
Jagged-Notch signaling in NASH/fibrosis
This research explores how specific cell signals contribute to liver damage and scarring in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a serious liver condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11103397 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a serious liver condition that currently lacks approved treatments and is a leading cause for liver transplants. Our team has observed unusual activity of a cell communication pathway, called Notch, in the liver cells of both obese mice and patients with NASH. This increased Notch activity appears to be connected to the inflammation and scarring seen in the liver. Earlier findings suggest that reducing this Notch activity could protect against liver damage. This project continues to explore how this specific cell signaling pathway contributes to NASH, hoping to uncover new treatment approaches.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for patients living with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), particularly those whose condition is linked to obesity.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments may not directly benefit from this foundational research, as it focuses on understanding disease mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the development of new medications that target specific cell signals to prevent or reverse liver damage in NASH patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work in animal models has shown promising results by blocking this specific cell signaling pathway, suggesting its importance in liver disease.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pajvani, Utpal — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Pajvani, Utpal
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.