Understanding how cholesterol affects liver disease progression

Innate Immunity, Cholesterol, and NASH Pathogenesis

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-10595671

This study is looking at how cholesterol affects non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and how certain immune cells in the body might cause liver inflammation and damage, with the goal of finding new treatment options for people dealing with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10595671 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of cholesterol in the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which affects a significant portion of the population. It focuses on how innate immune cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, contribute to liver inflammation and damage. By studying both animal models and patient samples, the research aims to identify potential targets for new treatments. Patients with varying stages of NASH will be analyzed to better understand the disease's mechanisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or those at risk of developing liver disease due to obesity or metabolic syndrome.

Not a fit: Patients with alcoholic liver disease or those without any liver conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for patients suffering from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune cells in liver diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.