Understanding how cells communicate in bile duct formation
Mechanisms of epithelial-mesenchymal crosstalk in intrahepatic biliary formation
['FUNDING_R01'] · WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV · NIH-11131187
This study is looking into how the liver makes important bile ducts and aims to find new treatments for conditions like Alagille syndrome and alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency, which can cause a shortage of these ducts, so that people can have better options beyond just getting a liver transplant.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11131187 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind the formation of intrahepatic bile ducts, which are crucial for liver function. It focuses on diseases that lead to a shortage of these ducts, such as Alagille syndrome and alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency. The approach involves studying how liver cells can transform into bile duct cells and exploring potential therapies to improve bile duct formation. By understanding these processes, the research aims to find new treatment options beyond liver transplantation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alagille syndrome, alpha1-antitrypsin deficiency, or other related conditions that cause intrahepatic bile duct paucity.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to bile duct formation or those who do not have intrahepatic bile duct issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve bile duct formation and reduce the need for liver transplants in affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell transformation processes, but this specific approach to augment bile duct formation is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SCHWARTZ, ROBERT E — WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV
- Study coordinator: SCHWARTZ, ROBERT E
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.
Conditions: Alagille Syndrome, Alagille-Watson Syndrome