Improving liver transplant outcomes using a new protective agent for donor organs

Preservation of DCD Allograft Integrity for Liver Transplantation

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-10747848

This study is looking at a special treatment that could help keep donated livers healthy and working better during transplants, which might lead to fewer problems for patients getting liver transplants.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10747848 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the preservation of liver organs donated after cardiac death (DCD) to improve transplant outcomes. It investigates the use of a therapeutic agent called recombinant human MG53, which has shown promise in protecting liver cells from damage during the transplantation process. By utilizing a specialized technique called normothermic ex-vivo liver perfusion, the study aims to assess how MG53 can maintain the integrity of liver grafts, potentially reducing complications like early allograft dysfunction. Patients receiving liver transplants may benefit from improved organ function and reduced risk of transplant failure.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with end-stage liver disease who are awaiting liver transplantation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not candidates for liver transplantation or those receiving organs from living donors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better preservation of liver donor organs, resulting in improved transplant success rates and patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that similar approaches to organ preservation have shown promise, making this a potentially impactful area of investigation.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.