How alcohol affects the immune response in hepatitis B patients
Alcohol Promotes Hepatitis B Progression by Impairment of Innate Immunity in Liver Cells
This study is looking at how drinking alcohol might make it harder for your body to fight off hepatitis B in your liver, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how alcohol affects this virus and liver health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11014454 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exposure to alcohol and its metabolites impacts the immune system's ability to fight hepatitis B virus (HBV) in liver cells. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which alcohol consumption increases HBV infection rates and liver damage, despite the availability of vaccines. Researchers will examine the role of macrophages and interferon responses in liver cells, focusing on how alcohol and dietary factors may worsen the disease. By exploring these interactions, the research seeks to uncover new insights into the progression of hepatitis B in individuals who consume alcohol.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic hepatitis B infection who also have a history of alcohol consumption.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have hepatitis B or do not consume alcohol are unlikely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for hepatitis B patients who consume alcohol, potentially reducing liver damage and improving health outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the interplay between alcohol and viral infections can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Omaha, United States
- University of Nebraska Medical Center — Omaha, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Osna, Natalia Aleksandr — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Osna, Natalia Aleksandr
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.