Investigating how a protein affects liver failure during sepsis

The role of C/EBPß in sepsis associated acute-on-chronic liver failure

NIH-funded research University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-11134516

This study is looking at how infections can suddenly worsen liver problems in people who already have liver issues, using a special mouse model to explore how certain proteins affect liver health, with the hope of finding better treatments for those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kansas City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11134516 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), particularly how sepsis can lead to sudden liver dysfunction in patients with pre-existing liver conditions. Using a newly developed mouse model, the study examines the role of C/EBPβ and angiopoietins in liver cell function and survival during sepsis. By analyzing the changes in liver function and cell signaling pathways, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind ACLF and identify potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for liver failure associated with sepsis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic liver disease who are at risk of developing acute-on-chronic liver failure due to sepsis.

Not a fit: Patients with acute liver failure not associated with chronic liver disease or sepsis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve liver function and survival rates in patients experiencing sepsis-related liver failure.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited mechanistic research on ACLF, the use of animal models to study similar conditions has shown promise in understanding liver dysfunction.

Where this research is happening

Kansas City, 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.