Spinal cord injury leads to liver problems and metabolic issues

Spinal cord injury causes liver pathology and metabolic dysfunction

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-11084562

This study is looking at how spinal cord injuries can lead to liver problems and affect overall health, especially focusing on a serious liver condition called NASH, to help find better ways to support people with spinal cord injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11084562 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how spinal cord injuries (SCI) can cause liver damage and metabolic dysfunction, which significantly affect the health and lifespan of individuals with SCI. The study focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a severe liver condition that is prevalent in SCI patients. By examining the role of increased sympathetic nervous system activity on liver function, the researchers aim to identify pathways that contribute to inflammation and fat accumulation in the liver. The approach includes using advanced mouse models to explore these biological processes and their implications for overall health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced spinal cord injuries and are at risk for metabolic syndrome and liver disease.

Not a fit: Patients without spinal cord injuries or those who do not exhibit metabolic dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for liver and metabolic disorders in individuals with spinal cord injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the metabolic consequences of spinal cord injuries can lead to significant advancements in patient care, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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 adult onset diabetesAdult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus
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.