Investigating how liver cells help with liver healing and growth

Hepatic stellate cells in liver homeostasis and regeneration

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10997438

This study is looking at how certain liver cells help the liver heal and grow, and it’s testing a new growth factor that might help improve liver health for people with liver diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10997438 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of hepatic stellate cells in liver regeneration and homeostasis. The team aims to identify a novel growth factor, neurotrophin-3 (NTF3), which has shown promise in promoting liver cell proliferation and increasing liver mass in animal models. By using advanced techniques, including genetically engineered T cells to deplete specific liver cells, the researchers will explore how these cells contribute to liver function and regeneration. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients with liver diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with liver diseases who may benefit from enhanced liver regeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with non-liver related conditions or those who are not candidates for liver regeneration therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new regenerative therapies for patients with end-stage liver disease, potentially reducing the need for liver transplants.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using growth factors for liver regeneration, making this approach promising yet still innovative.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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.