Improving liver health by restoring lysosomal function
Lysosomal Regeneration (LysoGen) and Rescue as a Treatment for Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)
This study is testing a new treatment for people with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) that helps improve liver cell function by making sure they can break down and recycle waste better, and it will be given through an IV directly to the liver.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11029527 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new treatment for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) by enhancing the function of lysosomes in liver cells. The approach involves creating a therapy that activates in response to the acidic environment of dysfunctional lysosomes, allowing for the release of acid to restore normal lysosomal function. By improving autophagy, the process that helps cells break down and recycle waste, this treatment aims to reduce the accumulation of harmful substances in the liver. Patients may receive this treatment through intravenous administration, targeting the liver directly.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are middle-aged and elderly individuals who are at risk for or diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.
Not a fit: Patients with liver diseases unrelated to metabolic dysfunction or those who are not middle-aged or elderly may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel therapy that effectively treats MASLD and improves liver health.
How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar strategies targeting lysosomal function have shown promise in other conditions, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston University (Charles River Campus) — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grinstaff, Mark W. — Boston University (Charles River Campus)
- Study coordinator: Grinstaff, Mark W.
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.