Targeting a specific enzyme to treat liver disease caused by alcohol consumption

Phosphodiesterase 4B Inhibition as a Therapeutic Target for Alcohol-associated Liver Disease

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO · NIH-10354185

This study is looking at how a specific protein called PDE4B affects liver problems caused by drinking too much alcohol, and it aims to find out if blocking this protein can help reduce liver damage and inflammation, potentially leading to better treatments for people with alcohol-related liver disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TOLEDO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TOLEDO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10354185 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of phosphodiesterase 4B (PDE4B) in alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD), which is a serious condition resulting from excessive alcohol intake. The study aims to explore how inhibiting PDE4B can reduce liver inflammation and damage by increasing levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), a molecule that helps protect liver cells. By focusing on the inflammatory processes involved in ALD, the researchers hope to develop a new therapeutic approach that could improve patient outcomes. The methodology includes testing PDE4 inhibitors to see if they can prevent liver injury and progression of the disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcohol-associated liver disease who are experiencing liver inflammation or damage.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have liver disease due to other causes may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment option for patients suffering from alcohol-associated liver disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using PDE4 inhibitors for liver inflammation, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

TOLEDO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.