Investigating factors that affect bile duct cells in liver diseases related to alcohol.
Official title: BLR&D Research Career Scientist Award
Funded at Rlr VA Medical Center · NIH-11105844 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain liver cells, called cholangiocytes, react to damage and inflammation caused by alcohol, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with liver diseases related to drinking.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rlr VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2019 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK6BX004601-07 |
| Project ID | NIH-11105844 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with alcohol-related liver diseases or cholangiopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with liver diseases not related to alcohol or cholangiocyte dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of bile duct epithelial cells, known as cholangiocytes, in various liver diseases, particularly those related to alcohol consumption. It aims to explore how these cells respond to damage and inflammation, which can lead to serious conditions like primary biliary cholangitis and cholangiocarcinoma. By studying the neuroendocrine factors that influence cholangiocyte growth and their responses to liver injury, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve treatment options for patients suffering from alcohol-related liver diseases. The ultimate goal is to develop new strategies to prevent and treat these conditions effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve outcomes for patients with alcohol-related liver diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting neuroendocrine factors in liver diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.
Where this research is happening
-
Rlr VA Medical Center
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Alpini, Gianfranco D — Rlr VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Alpini, Gianfranco D
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.