Investigating how liver cells communicate in alcoholic liver disease

Hepatocyte-derived extracellular vesicles in alcoholic liver disease

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10816603

This study is looking at how liver cells talk to immune cells when someone has alcoholic liver disease, by checking how tiny signals from damaged liver cells might affect liver health, with the hope of finding new ways to help treat this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10816603 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the communication between liver cells and other immune cells in the context of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). It examines how damaged liver cells release small vesicles that carry important molecular signals, which may influence the progression of liver damage. By studying these interactions, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to severe liver conditions, potentially paving the way for new treatments. The approach involves analyzing blood samples from models of ALD to track these vesicles and their effects on other cells.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol consumption who are experiencing liver-related issues, such as fatty liver or inflammation.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have liver disease unrelated to alcohol may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating alcoholic liver disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell communication in liver diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.