Investigating the role of a specific protein in liver disease related to aging
Official title: Role of the ubiquitin E3 ligase HUWE1 in age-associated nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Funded at Kent State University · NIH-10834220 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called HUWE1 affects nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in older adults, with the goal of finding new ways to help manage or prevent this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kent State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kent, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $229,012 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG081896-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10834220 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with liver disease caused by excessive alcohol consumption or other non-age-related factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the protein HUWE1 contributes to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), particularly in older adults. NAFLD is a condition where fat builds up in the liver, which can lead to serious complications like liver inflammation and cancer. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind this disease, especially how aging affects its progression. By identifying these mechanisms, the research hopes to find new therapeutic targets that could help manage or prevent NAFLD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, particularly for older patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the molecular mechanisms of liver diseases, but the specific role of HUWE1 in age-associated NAFLD is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
Kent State University
Kent, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kurokawa, Manabu — Kent State University
- Study coordinator: Kurokawa, Manabu
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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.