Understanding how fat metabolism affects liver cancer development

Lipid Metabolism in Liver Cancer

['FUNDING_R37'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-10929366

This study is looking at how fat processing in the liver affects liver cancer, especially in people who are overweight or have fatty liver disease, to see if stopping a specific protein can help treat this type of cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R37']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10929366 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between lipid metabolism and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a common and deadly form of liver cancer. It focuses on how the nuclear receptor CAR regulates lipid synthesis in the liver and its role in promoting tumor growth, particularly in patients with obesity and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The study aims to explore whether blocking CAR and lipid uptake can be an effective treatment strategy for HCC. By examining both mouse models and human samples, the research seeks to uncover the molecular mechanisms linking obesity to liver cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with obesity or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease who are at risk for developing liver cancer.

Not a fit: Patients without obesity or liver disease 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 cancer in patients with obesity.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in targeting lipid metabolism in cancer treatment, suggesting that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Cause, Cancer Etiology

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.