Investigating the causes of liver disease in overweight children
Understanding the metabolic pathology of pediatric obesity and NAFLD
This study is looking at how nonalcoholic fatty liver disease affects kids, especially those who are overweight, to find out what changes happen in their livers and how this is different from adults, so we can improve ways to diagnose and treat this condition in young people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11013401 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is increasingly common among obese youth. It aims to identify the metabolic and molecular changes in the liver that contribute to the development and progression of NAFLD in children. By studying specific biomarkers and metabolic pathways, the research seeks to uncover how these factors differ in pediatric patients compared to adults. This could lead to better diagnostic and treatment strategies tailored for young patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents who are overweight or obese and have been diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or do not have NAFLD may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for children suffering from NAFLD, potentially preventing severe liver disease later in life.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been significant research on NAFLD in adults, this specific focus on pediatric patients and their unique metabolic pathways is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Oklahoma City, United States
- University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr — Oklahoma City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Short, Kevin R. — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Short, Kevin R.
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.