Understanding how a specific protein affects liver health in obesity-related diseases

Determining hepatocyte-specific mechanisms by which Ube4A regulates NAFLD/NASH

NIH-funded research Saint Louis University · NIH-10997410

This study is looking at a protein called Ube4A in liver cells to see how it affects liver health and could help people with conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), especially when obesity causes stress and inflammation in the liver.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSaint Louis University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10997410 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a protein called Ube4A in liver cells, particularly how it influences metabolic dysfunction and cell survival in conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The study focuses on the cellular stress responses that occur due to obesity, which can lead to liver inflammation and damage. By exploring the mechanisms by which Ube4A helps maintain liver cell health, the research aims to identify potential new treatments for these conditions. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative therapies targeting liver health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are obese and at risk for developing NAFLD or NASH.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have obesity or related liver conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating liver diseases associated with obesity.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cellular stress responses in liver diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.
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.