Preventing liver failure in people with cirrhosis
Prediction and Prevention of Hepatic Decompensation in Patients with Cirrhosis
This project looks at whether a commonly used cholesterol medicine (a statin) together with tracking changeable health risks can help adults with cirrhosis avoid liver failure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11169955 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would be followed over time so researchers can learn which lifestyle and medical factors speed up liver decline, and how liver problems affect other organs. The team will enroll a longitudinal group of adults with cirrhosis to collect clinical data and monitor outcomes. People at high risk for worsening liver function will be invited to join a trial testing an HMG CoA reductase inhibitor (a statin) to see if it helps preserve liver function. The approach combines careful observation with a targeted medication test aimed at preventing hepatic decompensation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with diagnosed liver cirrhosis—particularly those at higher risk for decompensation from alcoholic or fatty liver disease—are the intended candidates.
Not a fit: People without cirrhosis, those already in end-stage liver failure listed for immediate transplant, or individuals who cannot take statins are unlikely to benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could slow or prevent liver decompensation, lowering hospital stays and the need for liver transplant for some patients.
How similar studies have performed: Some observational studies and smaller trials have suggested statins may reduce complications in cirrhosis, but large randomized evidence is limited.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moylan, Cynthia a — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Moylan, Cynthia a
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.