Identifying genetic variants linked to liver disease progression
Official title: Functional identification of non-coding variants associated with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11053153 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes might affect liver health in people with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and help us understand who might be at risk for more serious liver problems, so we can create better, personalized treatments for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $146,570 |
| NIH project number | 1K01DK138281-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053153 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) who may be at risk of progression to more severe liver conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with liver diseases unrelated to metabolic dysfunction or those who do not have MASLD may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that contribute to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and its progression to more severe forms. By focusing on non-coding genetic variants, the study aims to understand how these variants influence liver function and disease risk. Patients' genetic information will be analyzed using advanced techniques, including in vitro and in vivo studies, to identify which variants may predict the likelihood of developing severe liver conditions. This approach could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for individuals at risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved risk assessment and targeted interventions for patients with liver disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying genetic variants associated with liver diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xiao, Yang — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Xiao, Yang
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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.