Creating a human model to study gut and liver interactions related to alcohol effects

A Human Gut-Liver Platform with Microbiome Interactions for In Vitro Toxicology

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11011327

This study is looking at how alcohol affects liver health by creating tiny models of the liver that work like a real one, which will help us learn more about liver diseases and how our gut bacteria play a role, ultimately aiming to find better treatments for people with alcohol-related liver issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11011327 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the interactions between the gut and liver using a human-based model to better understand how alcohol affects liver health. By utilizing advanced techniques like droplet microfluidics, the researchers are developing 3D liver microtissues that mimic human liver function more accurately than traditional methods. These models will allow for the study of liver diseases and the impact of the microbiome on liver health, providing insights that could lead to improved treatments for alcohol-related liver disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with alcohol-related liver disease or those interested in understanding the effects of alcohol on liver health.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have no liver-related health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from alcohol-related liver diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using human-based models to study liver diseases, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions alcohol induced hepatic injuryalcohol induced liver disorderalcohol induced liver injuryalcohol related liver diseasealcohol-associated liver disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.