Understanding how glucose transport affects liver metabolism and fat storage
Official title: Leveraging glucose transport and the adaptive fasting response to modulate hepatic metabolism
Funded at Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11178839 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a certain protein in the liver, called GLUT8, affects fat buildup in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and it hopes to find new ways to help these patients burn fat better and improve their liver health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project start | August 25, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $389,892 |
| NIH project number | 7R01DK126622-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11178839 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or those at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with liver diseases unrelated to fatty liver or those who do not have metabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a prevalent condition that can lead to serious health issues like type 2 diabetes. The study focuses on a specific glucose transporter, GLUT8, which plays a role in liver fat accumulation. By exploring how blocking GLUT8 can activate the body's fasting response and promote fat burning, the researchers aim to develop new treatments for NAFLD. Patients may benefit from insights into how their liver metabolism can be improved through targeted therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively reduce liver fat and prevent complications associated with NAFLD.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting glucose transport mechanisms for metabolic diseases, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Indiana University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Debosch, Brian Jesse — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Debosch, Brian Jesse
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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.