Investigating the connection between gut health and liver disease in people with HIV

The Gut-Liver Axis in HIV-Related Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11097290

This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut and your overall gut health might influence liver disease, especially non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), in people living with HIV, to help find new ways to spot and treat liver issues early.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-11097290 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how the gut microbiome and intestinal health affect liver disease, specifically non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), in individuals living with HIV. The study will analyze the differences in gut bacteria and metabolites in patients with HIV and NAFLD compared to those without liver disease. By examining these factors, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that contribute to liver disease in this population and identify potential biomarkers for early detection and treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living with HIV who are experiencing or at risk for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have HIV or those without liver disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of liver disease in people living with HIV.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that gut health plays a significant role in liver disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency SyndromeAcquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndromeacquired immunodeficiency syndrome clinical trial groupAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.