Investigating how bile acids affect heart disease linked to the gut and liver
Official title: Targeting the gut-liver axis in cardiovascular disease
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10984997 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how substances made in the liver, called bile acids, affect how our bodies absorb fats from food and how this might help protect against heart disease, and it could involve patients trying out new diets or treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $670,732 |
| NIH project number | 5R01HL163908-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10984997 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are at risk for or currently have cardiovascular disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cardiovascular related conditions or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between the gut and liver in relation to cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly focusing on how bile acids influence lipid absorption and atherosclerosis. The study aims to understand how different types of bile acids, which are produced in the liver, can impact the metabolism of dietary lipids and potentially protect against heart disease. By examining the role of bile acids in lipid absorption, the researchers hope to identify new therapeutic strategies for managing CVD. Patients may be involved in trials assessing dietary interventions or treatments targeting bile acid modulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better manage or prevent cardiovascular disease by targeting bile acid metabolism.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of bile acids in lipid metabolism is an emerging area, previous studies have shown promising results in related fields, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vallim, Thomas a — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Vallim, Thomas a
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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.