Stopping harmful cell aging in fatty liver disease linked to obesity and diabetes
Anti-senescence signaling in metabolic liver disease
Researchers want to find out whether blocking signals that cause liver cells to enter a damaged 'aging' state can protect people with fatty liver disease related to obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11364567 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project studies why common fatty liver disease (MASLD) can worsen into a more dangerous form called MASH with inflammation and scarring. Scientists use diet-induced mouse models and single-cell RNA sequencing to map how liver cells, immune cells, and supporting cells change during disease. The team focuses on cellular senescence—when cells stop dividing and release harmful signals—and tests whether hepatocytes activate protective programs to restrain senescence under metabolic stress. Findings are intended to reveal signaling pathways that could be targeted to prevent liver damage and guide future treatments for people with MASLD/MASH.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD) or metabolic steatohepatitis (MASH), especially those with obesity or type 2 diabetes, would be the most relevant candidates for sample donation or future clinical testing.
Not a fit: People whose liver disease is driven primarily by viral hepatitis, autoimmune disorders, genetic liver diseases, or those with end-stage decompensated cirrhosis are less likely to benefit from these specific anti-senescence approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify new targets to slow or stop progression from fatty liver to inflammatory, scarring disease, leading to better treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical animal studies and early work on senolytic approaches have shown promise for improving metabolic and liver outcomes, but robust clinical proof in people remains limited.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lin, Jiandie D — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Lin, Jiandie D
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.