How a toxin from blue-green algae may cause liver cancer in fatty liver disease
Mechanisms of microcystin-induced hepatocellular carcinoma in nonalcoholic steatohepatitis
This study is looking at how a toxin from blue-green algae might affect liver health, especially how it could make nonalcoholic fatty liver disease worse and possibly lead to liver cancer, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding the risks of this toxin on liver function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10975048 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of microcystin-LR, a toxin produced by blue-green algae, on liver health, particularly focusing on its role in advancing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The study aims to understand how this toxin triggers changes in liver cells that could lead to severe liver damage and cancer. By examining the molecular pathways involved, researchers hope to identify critical mechanisms that contribute to liver disease progression. This research utilizes animal models to explore the long-term effects of toxin exposure on liver function and structure.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or nonalcoholic steatohepatitis.
Not a fit: Patients without any liver disease or those with liver conditions unrelated to fatty liver disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for liver cancer in patients with fatty liver disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that exposure to environmental toxins can influence liver disease progression, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Pullman, United States
- Washington State University — Pullman, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clarke, John Daniel — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Clarke, John Daniel
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.