Investigating how cholesterol affects brain function in liver disease
Role of cholesterol in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy
This study is looking at how cholesterol levels in the brain might affect brain problems in people with liver cirrhosis, hoping to find new ways to help those who are dealing with these serious issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10812086 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between cholesterol levels and hepatic encephalopathy (HE), a serious complication of liver cirrhosis that leads to neurological issues. The study aims to understand how cholesterol dysregulation in the brain contributes to HE, particularly in patients with liver cirrhosis. By using models of liver cirrhosis, researchers will assess changes in cholesterol homeostasis and neurosteroid synthesis, which could reveal new therapeutic targets. The findings may help improve treatment options for patients suffering from liver-related brain dysfunction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have been diagnosed with liver cirrhosis and are experiencing symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy.
Not a fit: Patients with liver disease who do not have cirrhosis or those without neurological symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve neurological function and quality of life for patients with liver cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of cholesterol in liver disease is being explored, this specific investigation into its effects on brain function during cirrhosis is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Demorrow, Sharon — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Demorrow, Sharon
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.