Investigating how a specific protein affects liver disease related to obesity
Role of SMPDL3B in obesity-associated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
This study is looking at a protein called SMPDL3B to see how it affects liver inflammation in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) linked to obesity, and it hopes to find new ways to help treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11095816 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of a protein called SMPDL3B in the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) associated with obesity. It aims to understand how this protein interacts with immune cells in the liver and contributes to inflammation and disease progression. The study will utilize both animal models and human liver organoids to assess the mechanisms involved and test potential therapeutic strategies to block harmful interactions that worsen liver inflammation. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new treatments for NAFLD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with obesity who are at risk for or diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Not a fit: Patients without obesity or those who do not have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for patients suffering from obesity-related liver disease.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the mechanisms of liver inflammation related to obesity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Lexington, United States
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Shuxia — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Wang, Shuxia
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 below.