Reducing iron levels to improve diabetes and liver health
Iron Reduction for the Treatment of Diabetes and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
This study is looking at how high iron levels in the body might be linked to type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease, and it will see if lowering iron through a simple blood donation can help improve blood sugar and liver health for people with too much iron.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10761794 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between tissue iron levels and the risk of type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. It explores how reducing iron through a procedure called phlebotomy may improve blood sugar levels and liver health in individuals with higher-than-normal iron levels. The study builds on previous findings that suggest a connection between iron overload and these conditions, aiming to clarify the benefits of iron reduction in a human population. Participants will be monitored for changes in their glycemic control and liver function as iron levels are adjusted.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with type 2 diabetes and elevated serum ferritin levels.
Not a fit: Patients with normal iron levels or those who do not have type 2 diabetes or fatty liver disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients with type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease by utilizing iron reduction as a therapeutic strategy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in animal models and pilot trials in humans, indicating that reducing iron may improve diabetes management.
Where this research is happening
Winston-Salem, United States
- Wake Forest University Health Sciences — Winston-Salem, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcclain, Donald a. — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Mcclain, Donald 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.