How liver immune cells (macrophages) drive NASH
NASH-associated macrophages: regulation and role in disease pathogenesis
This research looks at a specific group of liver immune cells called macrophages to understand how they cause or worsen NASH in people with fatty liver disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11256721 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will focus on a distinct group of immune cells in the liver called NASH-associated macrophages (NAMs). They will use mouse models of diet-driven fatty liver disease and single-cell RNA sequencing to identify the signals that trigger and change these cells during disease. The team will compare mouse findings with human NASH samples to link the lab results to people. Experiments will test whether altering or removing these macrophages changes liver inflammation and scarring.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be adults with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or confirmed NASH, especially those with obesity or type 2 diabetes.
Not a fit: People without fatty liver disease, those whose liver disease is due to alcohol, children, or anyone seeking an immediate treatment option are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for drugs that reduce liver inflammation and slow or reverse NASH progression.
How similar studies have performed: Single-cell studies have already found similar macrophage populations in mice and humans, but turning those findings into effective treatments is still largely untested.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lin, Jiandie D — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Lin, Jiandie D
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.