Developing new treatments for fatty liver disease

Therapeutic Mitochondrial Uncouplers

NIH-funded research Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-10834097

This study is looking at new tiny molecules that could help treat non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a liver condition that affects many people, by helping the liver burn fat better and reducing stress on liver cells.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Blacksburg, United States)
Project IDNIH-10834097 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating small molecule mitochondrial uncouplers to treat non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a serious liver condition affecting millions. The approach involves targeting fat accumulation and oxidative stress in the liver, which are key factors in NASH progression. By using mitochondrial uncouplers, the research aims to enhance fat oxidation and reduce harmful byproducts in liver cells. The project includes preclinical testing in mouse models to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of these new compounds.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or those at risk of developing this liver disease.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of liver disease unrelated to NASH may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the first FDA-approved treatment for NASH, significantly improving outcomes for patients with this condition.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using mitochondrial uncouplers for metabolic conditions, indicating potential success for this novel approach in treating NASH.

Where this research is happening

Blacksburg, 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.
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.