Targeting specific liver receptors to improve heart and liver health

Macrophage-specific targeting of LXRs in CVD and NASH

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10908531

This study is looking at how targeting certain receptors in immune cells might help improve health for people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and heart problems by using special compounds to boost the function of these receptors.

Quick facts

Grant typeP01 program project
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10908531 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how targeting liver X receptors (LXRs) in specific immune cells can help treat conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The study focuses on understanding the role of these receptors in liver and artery wall macrophages, which are crucial in the development of these diseases. By using desmosterol mimetics, the research aims to reverse the impaired function of these receptors, potentially leading to better health outcomes for patients with these conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or cardiovascular disease, particularly those with obesity or insulin resistance.

Not a fit: Patients without liver disease or cardiovascular issues may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve liver and heart health for millions of patients suffering from NAFLD and CVD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting LXRs for similar health conditions, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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 Diabetes Mellitus
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.