Testing a new protein drug for treating liver diseases
Pre-clinical Validation of A Novel Protein Drug Candidate for ASH and NASH Treatment
This study is testing a new protein drug called ProAgio that aims to help people with liver diseases like Alcoholic Steatohepatitis and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis by targeting specific cells to reduce liver damage, and it also includes new MRI tools to see how well the treatment is working without needing any invasive procedures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgia State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10662418 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel protein drug candidate called ProAgio, which targets specific cells involved in liver diseases like Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (ASH) and Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). The approach involves inducing cell death in activated hepatic stellate cells and capillarized liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, which are key players in liver fibrosis. Additionally, the research includes creating advanced MRI contrast agents to visualize collagen buildup and assess liver damage non-invasively. Preliminary studies in mice have shown promising results in reversing liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, indicating potential for effective treatment options.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alcoholic Steatohepatitis or Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis, particularly those experiencing liver fibrosis.
Not a fit: Patients with liver diseases not related to fibrosis or those with advanced liver failure may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment that effectively reverses liver fibrosis and improves outcomes for patients with ASH and NASH.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success with similar approaches targeting liver fibrosis, but the specific mechanisms and drug candidate being tested in this project are novel.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Georgia State University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Jenny J. — Georgia State University
- Study coordinator: Yang, Jenny J.
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.