Reducing liver cholesterol production using a new small molecule
Official title: Inhibition of hepatic (V)LDL production by a novel antagonist of carboxyl esterase 1
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10913480 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new small molecule that might help lower cholesterol by blocking an enzyme in the liver, and it's designed for people who want to understand how this treatment could help reduce cholesterol and prevent fat buildup in the liver.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $512,957 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK136328-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10913480 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from hypercholesterolemia or liver steatosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with normal cholesterol levels or those not affected by liver fat accumulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel small molecule that inhibits a specific enzyme in the liver, potentially leading to reduced cholesterol production. Using a platform derived from human stem cells, the researchers aim to understand how this molecule works at a molecular level and its effects on cholesterol levels. The study will involve laboratory tests and humanized mouse models to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment in lowering cholesterol and preventing fat accumulation in the liver.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for patients with high cholesterol and liver fat accumulation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways for cholesterol reduction, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duncan, Stephen a — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Duncan, Stephen a
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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.