Understanding how certain proteins affect liver damage from acetaminophen overdose
Official title: Novel proteolytic mechanisms driving pathologic hepatic congestion in drug-induced hepatotoxicity
Funded at Michigan State University · NIH-11032017 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called macrophage elastase might help protect the liver from damage caused by too much acetaminophen, with the goal of finding better treatments for people who have taken too much of this common pain reliever.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Lansing, United States) |
| Project start | May 11, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $444,931 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135649-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11032017 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced acetaminophen overdose or are at risk of acute liver injury due to acetaminophen use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have liver damage from causes other than acetaminophen overdose may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind liver injury caused by acetaminophen overdose, which is a leading cause of acute liver failure. The team is exploring how a specific protein, macrophage elastase (MMP-12), can help prevent the worsening of liver damage by regulating the production of another protein involved in inflammation. By using advanced experimental techniques and data from patients, the researchers aim to identify new treatment strategies that could improve outcomes for those affected by acetaminophen toxicity.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from acetaminophen overdose, potentially reducing hospital stays and improving recovery rates.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding liver injury mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on MMP-12 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan State University
East Lansing, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luyendyk, James P — Michigan State University
- Study coordinator: Luyendyk, James P
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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.