Creating new drugs to block a protein involved in liver disease
Development of caspase-6 inhibitors for treatment of NASH
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-10984458
This study is looking for new ways to help people with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) by creating special treatments that can stop a protein called caspase-6 from causing liver cell damage.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10984458 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing inhibitors for caspase-6, a protein that contributes to liver cell death in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The team will explore two types of chemical inhibitors: one that binds strongly to caspase-6 and another that prevents its activation. By using advanced design techniques, they aim to create a treatment that can improve liver health and reduce damage in patients with NASH. The research will involve testing these inhibitors in mouse models to assess their effectiveness and safety before considering human trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Not a fit: Patients with liver diseases unrelated to NASH or those who do not have liver conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve liver health for patients with NASH.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting caspases for therapeutic purposes, but this specific approach to caspase-6 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SALTIEL, ALAN R. — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: SALTIEL, ALAN R.
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.