Reducing liver damage during transplantation using targeted gene silencing
Investigating siRNA-mediated inhibition of ischemia-reperfusion injury during the liver transplantation process
This study is looking at ways to make liver transplants more successful by using a special treatment that helps protect liver cells from damage during the surgery, which could lead to better outcomes for patients receiving donor livers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10841722 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving liver transplantation outcomes by addressing ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), a significant cause of liver graft failure. The approach involves using small interfering RNA (siRNA) to silence specific genes that contribute to liver cell death during the transplantation process. By targeting the Fas receptor, which plays a key role in cell apoptosis, the study aims to enhance the viability of donor livers and improve patient survival rates. The methodology includes delivering modified siRNAs directly to liver cells using a specialized delivery system, potentially increasing the number of usable donor organs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with end-stage liver disease who are awaiting liver transplantation.
Not a fit: Patients who have already received a liver transplant or those with conditions unrelated to liver failure may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the number of viable liver transplants available, improving survival rates for patients with liver failure.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using gene silencing techniques to mitigate cellular injury, suggesting that this approach could be effective in the context of liver transplantation.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Buchwald, Julianna E — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Buchwald, Julianna E
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.