Investigating how a specific enzyme protects liver cells from injury

Nuclear ATP citrate lyase and ischemia/reperfusion injury in steatotic liver

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-10932653

This study is looking at how a special enzyme called ACLY helps keep liver cells healthy and safe from damage, especially for people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and it will explore how another enzyme, AMPK, helps control ACLY's movement in the liver cells.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10932653 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how ATP citrate lyase (ACLY), an enzyme involved in energy metabolism, can help protect liver cells from damage, particularly in conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The study will explore how ACLY moves to the nucleus of liver cells and how this process is regulated by another enzyme called AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). By using advanced cell biology techniques and genetically modified models, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind this protective effect and how it can be enhanced to improve liver health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or those at risk of liver injury due to metabolic conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with liver diseases unrelated to fatty liver or those with advanced liver failure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for protecting liver cells and treating liver diseases, potentially improving outcomes for patients with fatty liver conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of metabolic enzymes in liver protection, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, 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.