Improving liver health by targeting aging liver cells in fatty liver disease

Targeting Hepatocyte Senescence to Improve NAFLD

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11036370

This study is looking at how aging liver cells might make non-alcoholic fatty liver disease worse, and it hopes to find ways to stop these cells from building up, which could help people with this condition in the future.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorDUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11036370 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of aging liver cells, known as senescent hepatocytes, in the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The study aims to understand how these cells contribute to the disease and to explore potential ways to prevent their accumulation. By using advanced techniques like CRISPR and chemical screening, the researchers will analyze the molecular mechanisms behind hepatocyte senescence and its impact on liver health. Patients with NAFLD may benefit from insights gained through this research, which could lead to new treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, particularly those experiencing symptoms or complications related to the condition.

Not a fit: Patients without non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or those with other unrelated liver conditions may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve liver health and outcomes for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting cellular senescence in various diseases, suggesting that this approach may be effective for NAFLD as well.

Where this research is happening

DURHAM, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.