Speeding liver recovery after acetaminophen (Tylenol) overdose

Novel strategies to accelerate repair of drug-induced hepatotoxicity

NIH-funded research Michigan State University · NIH-11387661

Testing new drugs that aim to help the liver heal faster after acetaminophen (Tylenol) overdose.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMichigan State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (East Lansing, United States)
Project IDNIH-11387661 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This work focuses on a blood protein called von Willebrand Factor (VWF) that may block liver repair after acetaminophen injury. Researchers are using genetically modified mice, analyses of human acute liver failure samples, and experimental VWF-targeted drugs to prevent tiny clot-like deposits in the liver. They will test existing VWF-targeted molecules, new compounds designed to keep VWF inactive, and VWF-directed clot-dissolving agents to see if these speed tissue repair. Results are intended to inform future treatments for people with acetaminophen-related liver damage.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People who have had an acetaminophen overdose with resulting acute liver injury or early acute liver failure would be the most relevant candidates.

Not a fit: Patients whose liver damage is caused by conditions other than acetaminophen, or those with very advanced irreversible liver failure, may not benefit from these specific approaches.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, these approaches could help livers recover faster after overdose and lower the risk of needing a transplant or intensive care.

How similar studies have performed: Early animal studies and analyses of human liver samples suggest targeting VWF could help, but applying VWF-targeted drugs to speed repair in patients is still a novel approach under testing.

Where this research is happening

East Lansing, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions APAP-induced liver injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.