Investigating how neutrophil elastase affects fatty liver diseases related to obesity
Official title: Neutrophil elastase in obesity-related fatty liver diseases
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-10477430 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called neutrophil elastase affects liver problems related to obesity, especially those caused by a high-fat and sugary diet, and it hopes to find ways to reduce inflammation and improve liver health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $415,152 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK126949-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10477430 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are obese and have been diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have obesity or liver-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of neutrophil elastase in the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD) that are linked to obesity. It examines how a diet high in fats and fructose can lead to increased inflammation and liver damage through the production of neutrophils. The study will explore the molecular mechanisms involved, particularly how inhibiting neutrophil elastase may prevent inflammation and promote fatty acid oxidation in the liver. By using animal models, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for treating obesity-related liver conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or reduce liver damage in patients with obesity-related fatty liver diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting neutrophil elastase for reducing inflammation and liver damage, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jiang, Zhen Yue — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Jiang, Zhen Yue
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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.