Investigating how liver cells regenerate after injury

The role of liver progenitor cells in liver regeneration

['FUNDING_R01'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11014052

This study is looking at how certain cells in the liver can help it heal after serious damage, using zebrafish to learn how these cells change and grow into new liver cells, which could eventually lead to better treatments for liver diseases.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11014052 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of liver progenitor cells in the regeneration of the liver, particularly after severe damage. By using a zebrafish model, the study aims to understand how biliary epithelial cells can transform into liver cells following significant liver injury. The researchers will analyze cellular changes and signaling pathways involved in this process, providing insights into liver regeneration mechanisms. This work could lead to new therapeutic strategies for liver diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from acute or chronic liver diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with stable liver function and no history of liver disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for liver diseases and enhance recovery strategies for patients with liver failure.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding liver regeneration mechanisms, but this specific approach using zebrafish is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.