Investigating how urolithin A affects liver disease related to alcohol use
Role of urolithin A in progression of alcohol-associated liver disease
This study is looking at how a natural compound called urolithin A, made by gut bacteria from certain foods, might help protect people with alcohol use disorders from getting serious liver disease, by comparing the gut bacteria of those who do and don’t develop liver problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Louisville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Louisville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10809651 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of urolithin A, a compound produced by gut bacteria from certain foods, in preventing the progression of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). The study aims to understand how the gut microbiota and its metabolites differ between individuals with alcohol use disorders who do and do not develop severe liver disease. By examining these differences, researchers hope to identify protective factors that could help mitigate liver damage in at-risk patients. The approach includes both animal models and analysis of human gut microbiota.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with alcohol use disorders who are at risk of developing alcohol-associated liver disease.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorders or those who already have advanced liver disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary recommendations or treatments that help prevent severe liver disease in individuals with alcohol use disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with gut microbiota and their metabolites in relation to liver disease, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Louisville, United States
- University of Louisville — Louisville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jala, Venkatakrishna Rao — University of Louisville
- Study coordinator: Jala, Venkatakrishna Rao
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.