Nerves that send liver signals to the brain
Functional identification of vagal sensory neurons innervating the liver
Researchers are mapping how liver-sensing nerves talk to the brain to help people with appetite or blood sugar problems, such as those seen in mood disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11175975 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project maps the specific vagal sensory neurons that connect the liver to brain circuits using anatomical tracing, physiological recordings, and behavioral tests in model systems. The team will identify which liver-innervating neurons respond to blood glucose changes and trace their connections to brainstem and hypothalamic cells that regulate hunger and glucose. By combining circuitry mapping with functional tests, the researchers aim to link liver signals to changes in feeding behavior and metabolic control. Findings are intended to clarify mechanisms that may underlie appetite changes in conditions like depression and substance use disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with disrupted appetite or blood sugar control—such as individuals with depression, bipolar disorder, or metabolic syndrome—would be the likely future candidates, although this grant is preclinical and is not currently enrolling patients.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical treatment for liver disease or current symptom relief should not expect direct benefit from this basic-science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal new targets for treating appetite and blood sugar problems linked to mood and metabolic disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal research has shown vagal signals can affect feeding and glucose control, but the detailed functional mapping of liver-specific sensory neurons is a novel effort.
Where this research is happening
Bronx, United States
- Albert Einstein College of Medicine — Bronx, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jo, Young-Hwan — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Jo, Young-Hwan
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.