How RNA modifications affect liver inflammation in obesity-related liver disease
Official title: RNA m6A methylation contributes to hepatic inflammation in obesity-associated NAFLD
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11000323 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific chemical change in RNA affects liver inflammation caused by obesity, especially in people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, to better understand how certain immune cells contribute to this condition and potentially find new ways to help those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $379,265 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134549-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000323 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with obesity who are at risk of developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or steatohepatitis (NASH).
✕Less likely to help
Patients without obesity or those who do not have liver disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of RNA m6A methylation in the inflammation of the liver caused by obesity, specifically focusing on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its progression to steatohepatitis (NASH). By utilizing advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to understand how myeloid cells, such as macrophages, contribute to metabolic inflammation. The researchers will explore the mechanisms by which m6A methylation influences gene expression and cellular responses in the context of liver disease. This could lead to new insights into the biological processes underlying obesity-related liver conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating liver inflammation and improving outcomes for patients with obesity-related liver diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of RNA modifications in various diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ouyang, Xinshou — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Ouyang, Xinshou
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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.