How problems with cholesterol regulation and cell recycling contribute to pancreatitis
Dysregulated cholesterol homeostasis, caused by lysosomal/autophagy dysfunction, mediates pancreatitis
This study is looking at how problems with certain cell processes might contribute to acute pancreatitis, a serious condition, and it’s testing whether cholesterol-lowering medications like statins can help improve the health of the pancreas, which could lead to better treatments for this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11000340 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of lysosomal and autophagy dysfunction in the development of acute pancreatitis, a serious condition with few treatment options. It explores how these cellular processes affect cholesterol homeostasis in acinar cells, which are crucial for pancreatic function. By examining the effects of cholesterol-lowering drugs like statins on these cells, the study aims to uncover new mechanisms that may lead to better understanding and treatment of pancreatitis. The research combines genetic studies and drug response assessments to identify potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from acute pancreatitis or those at risk of developing this condition.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic pancreatitis or those whose pancreatitis is not related to cholesterol metabolism may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for acute pancreatitis, improving patient outcomes and reducing mortality.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that targeting cholesterol metabolism can influence pancreatitis outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gukovskaya, Anna S. — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Gukovskaya, Anna S.
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.