Investigating how hexokinase 2 affects liver fibrosis and cancer development.
The role of hexokinase 2 in liver fibrosis and NASH-induced HCC
This study is looking at how a protein called hexokinase 2 affects certain liver cells that can lead to liver scarring and cancer in people with a liver condition called NASH, with the goal of finding new ways to treat these diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10979302 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of hexokinase 2 (HK2) in the activation of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which are crucial in the development of liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The study examines how HK2 influences the metabolic processes in HSCs, particularly their glycolytic activity and lactate production, which may affect gene expression related to fibrosis and cancer progression. By exploring these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for treating liver diseases and associated cancers.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have been diagnosed with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and are at risk for liver fibrosis or hepatocellular carcinoma.
Not a fit: Patients with liver conditions unrelated to NASH or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce liver fibrosis and the risk of liver cancer in patients with NASH.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in liver diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hay, Nissim — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Hay, Nissim
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.