Investigating how cholesterol affects liver diseases
LXR-Dependent Cholesterol Sensing
This study is looking at how cholesterol affects the worsening of liver problems, specifically how non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can turn into a more serious condition called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), using special mice to learn more about it, which could help find better ways to treat these liver issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11085295 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of cholesterol in the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). By using genetically modified mouse models, the study aims to disrupt cholesterol sensing in the liver to observe how this affects liver inflammation and fibrosis. The researchers will analyze the changes in liver metabolism and disease severity, providing insights into the mechanisms behind these conditions. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing liver diseases related to cholesterol.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or those at risk of developing non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
Not a fit: Patients with liver diseases unrelated to cholesterol metabolism or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from liver diseases associated with cholesterol metabolism.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cholesterol's role in liver diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schulman, Ira G — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Schulman, Ira G
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.