Investigating how liver cells contribute to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

PPARgamma-regulated mechanisms in hepatocytes that promote NAFLD

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11005384

This study is looking at how liver cells contribute to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and how a specific receptor might help us find better treatments, especially using certain medications, to help people with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11005384 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which liver cells, specifically hepatocytes, contribute to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It explores the role of a specific receptor, PPARγ, in regulating liver function and how it may affect the progression of NAFLD and its more severe form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The study aims to identify how certain drugs, known as thiazolidinediones, can be optimized to treat these liver conditions by targeting the underlying cellular processes. By examining these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover potential new therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from NAFLD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients without non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or those with other unrelated liver conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and its complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting PPARγ for metabolic diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results for NAFLD as well.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Conditions adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.