Investigating how a specific receptor helps protect the liver from fat buildup

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor-mediated differential gene regulation - Mechanism of stanniocalcin 2 mediated protection against NAFLD

NIH-funded research Texas A&m Agrilife Research · NIH-11325117

This study is looking at how a natural compound called cinnabarinic acid can help protect the liver from fat buildup in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by activating a specific receptor, which could lead to new treatments for better liver health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTexas A&m Agrilife Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (College Station, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11325117 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) and its role in regulating liver health, particularly in the context of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The study explores how a natural compound, cinnabarinic acid, activates this receptor to promote the expression of a protective gene called stanniocalcin 2, which may help reduce fat accumulation in the liver. By using advanced models, including genetically modified mice, the researchers aim to understand the mechanisms behind this protective effect and how it can be harnessed for therapeutic purposes. Patients may benefit from insights gained about liver health and potential new treatments for fatty liver disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Not a fit: Patients with alcoholic liver disease or those without any liver-related conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in liver health, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

College Station, 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.