Investigating how certain bacteria contribute to liver disease caused by alcohol use

The role of pathobionts in alcoholic liver disease

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM · NIH-10950315

This study is looking at how certain bacteria in the gut might make liver problems worse for people with alcohol use disorder, and it aims to find new ways to help those dealing with liver issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVA SAN DIEGO HEALTHCARE SYSTEM (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10950315 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between alcohol use disorder and liver disease, particularly focusing on how specific bacteria in the gut may worsen liver inflammation and damage. By analyzing fecal samples from patients, the study uses advanced genetic sequencing techniques to identify harmful bacterial factors that are more prevalent in those with alcoholic hepatitis. The goal is to understand how these bacteria influence liver health and potentially lead to new treatment strategies for affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder or alcoholic hepatitis.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that target harmful gut bacteria, improving liver health for patients with alcohol-related liver disease.

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

Where this research is happening

SAN DIEGO, 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 →

Conditions: alcohol induced hepatic injury, alcohol induced liver disorder, alcohol induced liver injury, alcohol related liver disease, alcohol use disorder

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.