How bile acids affect sodium retention in liver disease
ENaC regulation by biliary factors
This study is looking at how certain substances in your body, like bile acids and bilirubin, might affect how your kidneys handle sodium, which can help us understand why some people with advanced liver disease hold onto extra fluid.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10670128 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how bile acids and bilirubin may influence sodium retention in patients with advanced liver disease. It focuses on the epithelial sodium channel (ENaC) and its activation by these biliary factors, which could lead to fluid retention and electrolyte imbalances. The study will analyze urine samples from patients with alcoholic hepatitis to determine if they contain bile acids that activate ENaC, thereby promoting sodium retention and potassium excretion. By understanding this mechanism, the research aims to provide insights into managing fluid retention in liver disease patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with advanced liver disease, particularly those experiencing fluid retention and electrolyte disturbances.
Not a fit: Patients without liver disease or those not experiencing fluid retention may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for fluid retention in patients with liver disease.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data suggest that similar approaches have shown promise, indicating that this research builds on existing findings rather than being entirely novel.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kashlan, Ossama B — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Kashlan, Ossama B
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.