Investigating how stomach signals affect liver fat metabolism
The mTOR-ETV5 signaling in gastric X/A like cells and its role in hepatic lipid metabolism and steatosis
This study is looking at how signals from the stomach can affect fat processing in the liver, especially focusing on a protein that helps control hunger and fat production, with the hope of finding new ways to treat liver problems related to obesity and diet.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10789987 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between the stomach and liver, focusing on how a specific signaling pathway (mTOR) in stomach cells influences fat metabolism in the liver. It examines the role of a protein called ETV5, which is involved in the production of a hormone called ghrelin that regulates food intake and liver fat synthesis. By using specialized mouse models, the research aims to understand how changes in this signaling pathway can impact liver health, particularly in relation to fatty liver disease. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for liver conditions linked to obesity and diet.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing issues related to liver fat metabolism or fatty liver disease.
Not a fit: Patients with liver conditions unrelated to metabolic processes or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing fatty liver disease and improving liver health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of hormonal signaling in liver metabolism, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Weizhen — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Weizhen
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 below.