How insulin affects liver function and fat metabolism
Insulin Regulation of Hepatic Function via Zone-Specific Transcriptional Programs
This study is looking at how insulin helps the liver manage fats and bile acids, especially in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), to find better ways to treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10834098 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of insulin in regulating liver function, particularly focusing on how it affects the metabolism of fats and bile acids in the liver. The study aims to understand the differences in liver cell types and how insulin influences gene expression in these cells to maintain metabolic balance. By examining the specific actions of insulin on perivenous hepatocytes, which are crucial for bile acid synthesis and fat accumulation, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or those at risk due to insulin resistance.
Not a fit: Patients with liver diseases unrelated to insulin regulation or those who do not have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding insulin's role in liver metabolism, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Biddinger, Sudha B — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Biddinger, Sudha 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.