Investigating the role of specific immune cells in liver disease related to obesity
NASH-associated macrophages: regulation and role in disease pathogenesis
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the liver, called macrophages, might affect the worsening of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a serious liver disease often related to obesity, to help find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11004279 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain immune cells, known as macrophages, contribute to the progression of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a severe form of liver disease linked to obesity. By analyzing liver cells from both healthy and NASH-affected mice, researchers aim to identify unique macrophage populations that may play a critical role in the disease's development. The study employs advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing to uncover the mechanisms behind macrophage behavior in the context of liver injury and inflammation. Insights gained could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing NASH and its complications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis or those at risk due to obesity.
Not a fit: Patients with liver diseases unrelated to obesity or those without any liver conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that target immune cell behavior, potentially improving outcomes for patients with NASH.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell roles in liver diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lin, Jiandie D — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Lin, Jiandie D
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.