Understanding how branched-chain amino acids affect liver disease
Official title: Mechanisms linking the Branched-Chain alpha-Keto Acid regulatory network to the pathogenesis of NASH
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11005017 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain nutrients called branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) might affect the way fat builds up in the liver, which can lead to a serious liver condition known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and it's aimed at finding new ways to help people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $492,365 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135474-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11005017 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from non-alcoholic steatohepatitis or those at high risk due to obesity and metabolic disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with liver diseases caused by alcohol consumption or other non-metabolic factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) influence the development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a serious liver condition linked to obesity. The study focuses on the molecular pathways that regulate lipid accumulation in the liver, particularly how certain enzymes are activated or inhibited by BCAAs. By using animal models, the researchers aim to identify potential therapeutic targets that could lead to new treatments for NASH and related metabolic diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for treating or reversing NASH, significantly improving liver health and reducing the risk of severe complications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of BCAAs in metabolic diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: White, Phillip J — Duke University
- Study coordinator: White, Phillip J
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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.