Investigating how telomere damage contributes to liver cancer

Telomere dysfunction and telomerase reactivation in the etiology and progression of liver cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10982521

This study is looking at how problems with certain parts of our DNA, called telomeres, might lead to liver cancer, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about liver cancer and possible new treatments.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10982521 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of telomere dysfunction and telomerase reactivation in the development and progression of liver cancer. By utilizing human pluripotent stem cells, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that lead to liver fibrosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to DNA damage from shortened telomeres. The researchers will analyze how mutations in telomerase affect liver cell function and contribute to cancer development, providing insights into potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of liver cancer etiology and new treatment strategies derived from these findings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with liver fibrosis or those at high risk for developing hepatocellular carcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients with liver cancer unrelated to telomere dysfunction or those without liver disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for liver cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding telomere dysfunction in other cancers, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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 →

Conditions: cell injury

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.