Investigating the role of a protein in liver disease and metabolic disorders

Role of SUN1 in MASLD and metabolic disease

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11057704

This study is looking at how a protein called SUN1 might affect liver health in people with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and we're inviting patients to help by sharing genetic samples to see how different versions of this protein could play a role in this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR03 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11057704 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a common chronic liver condition that can lead to serious health issues. The study examines the role of a specific protein, SUN1, which is believed to influence liver health and metabolic processes. By analyzing genetic variants of SUN1, researchers aim to understand how these variants may contribute to the development of MASLD and related metabolic disorders. Patients may be involved in providing genetic samples to help identify the impact of SUN1 on liver disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include adults over 21 years old who are at risk for or diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.

Not a fit: Patients with liver disease caused by factors other than metabolic dysfunction, such as viral hepatitis or alcohol-related liver disease, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating MASLD and related metabolic diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic factors contributing to liver diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.