Understanding a new enzyme's role in alcoholic liver disease

Defining the role of a novel hexokinase in alcoholic liver disease

NIH-funded research Loyola University Chicago · NIH-10930893

This study is looking at a new enzyme called HKDC1 to see how it might help protect the liver from damage caused by drinking alcohol, which could lead to better treatments for people with alcoholic liver disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLoyola University Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Maywood, United States)
Project IDNIH-10930893 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a newly identified enzyme, HKDC1, in the development of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). It aims to understand how this enzyme affects glucose metabolism and contributes to liver cell health in the context of alcohol consumption. By examining liver samples from patients and animal models, the research will explore the potential protective effects of HKDC1 against liver damage caused by alcohol. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating ALD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcoholic liver disease or those experiencing alcohol-related liver issues.

Not a fit: Patients with liver diseases unrelated to alcohol consumption may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel treatments that improve liver health and outcomes for patients suffering from alcoholic liver disease.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of HKDC1 in alcoholic liver disease is being explored, similar research on metabolic enzymes has shown promise in understanding liver diseases, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Maywood, 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 Alcoholic Liver Diseases
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.