Exploring how specific proteins affect liver cell activation in alcohol-related liver disease
Official title: Investigating the Role of Wnt3a and Wnt5a as Factors of Hepatic Stellate Cell Activation in Alcohol-Related Liver Fibrosis
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11125748 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how two proteins, Wnt3a and Wnt5a, affect liver cells that can cause scarring in people with alcohol-related liver disease, with the hope of finding new ways to help treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,538 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AA031426-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11125748 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcohol-related liver disease who are experiencing liver scarring.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with liver disease not related to alcohol or those who have already undergone liver transplantation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of two proteins, Wnt3a and Wnt5a, in the activation of liver cells that contribute to scarring in patients with alcohol-related liver disease. The study aims to understand how these proteins influence the progression of liver damage caused by alcohol, which is a significant health issue in the United States. By examining the mechanisms of liver cell activation and fibrosis, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could lead to new treatment options for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that prevent or reverse liver scarring in patients with alcohol-related liver disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on Wnt proteins in the context of alcohol-related liver disease is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding liver fibrosis mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rutt, Lauren — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Rutt, Lauren
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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.