NIH-funded research R01 grant

Investigating how specific proteins affect liver health and diabetes.

Official title: Novel Roles of Cullin-RING E3 Ligases in Liver Pathophysiology

Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11023068 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain proteins in the liver might help us understand and treat liver diseases like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, especially for people dealing with obesity and type-2 diabetes, by finding new ways to improve insulin sensitivity and lower liver fat.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oklahoma City, United States)
Project startFebruary 16, 2023
Project endJanuary 31, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$353,583
NIH project number5R01DK134316-03
Project IDNIH-11023068 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, obesity, or type-2 diabetes.

Less likely to help

Patients without liver disease or metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of Cullin-RING E3 ligases (CRLs) in liver diseases, particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its association with obesity and type-2 diabetes. The researchers aim to explore how these ligases regulate lipid and glucose metabolism in the liver, which could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating these conditions. By studying the mechanisms of CRLs, the project seeks to identify potential drug targets that could improve insulin sensitivity and reduce liver fat accumulation. This research is particularly relevant for patients suffering from metabolic disorders linked to liver health.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve liver health and manage diabetes more effectively.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways for metabolic diseases, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
    Oklahoma City, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Li, Tiangang — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
  • Study coordinator: Li, Tiangang

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.