How certain immune cells may protect against liver disease
Protective role of OPN-High macrophages in NASH
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO · NIH-11095840
This study is looking at a special type of immune cell called OPN-High macrophages to see how they work with liver cells in people with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a serious liver condition, to find new ways to help protect the liver from damage.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11095840 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific type of immune cell, known as OPN-High macrophages, in the context of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a serious liver condition affecting both children and adults. The study aims to understand how these macrophages interact with liver cells and whether they can help prevent liver damage and fibrosis. By examining the behavior of these immune cells in the liver, researchers hope to uncover new therapeutic strategies for managing NASH. The approach includes analyzing the communication between macrophages and liver cells to determine their protective effects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, particularly those experiencing liver inflammation or damage.
Not a fit: Patients with other liver diseases unrelated to NASH or those without liver conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that harness the protective properties of OPN-High macrophages to improve liver health in patients with NASH.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of OPN-High macrophages in NASH is still being explored, similar research has shown promise in understanding immune cell functions in liver diseases.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO — Chicago, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: NIETO, NATALIA — UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO
- Study coordinator: NIETO, NATALIA
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.