Investigating a new protein to treat fatty liver disease
Official title: Resolution of nonalcoholic fatty liver and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis by a novel adipokine
Funded at Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester · NIH-10940348 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new protein that might help reduce fat and inflammation in the liver for people with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), with the hope of finding better treatments for this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $469,235 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK140159-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10940348 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis or related liver conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with liver diseases caused by alcohol consumption or other non-metabolic factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a serious liver condition caused by fat buildup in the liver. The study aims to explore a novel protein that has shown promise in reducing liver fat and inflammation in animal models. Researchers will evaluate how this protein works in the body and its potential to improve liver health. By understanding the mechanisms involved, the team hopes to pave the way for new treatments for patients suffering from NASH.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective therapies for patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and NASH.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways for liver disease treatment, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
Worcester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Yong-Xu — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Wang, Yong-Xu
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Role of fat droplets in liver fat and inflammatory signals in NAFLD
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-
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A large NIH grant helps researchers study why fatty liver develops in Hispanic adults and how genetics interact with lifestyle to affect risk.
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Glutamine and T cells in fatty liver disease
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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.