Understanding how inflammation affects fat storage and metabolism in the liver

Inflammation and hepatic lipid metabolism

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10649651

This study is looking at how inflammation affects fat storage in the liver, especially for people dealing with obesity and diabetes, by focusing on a protein called TBK1 and its interaction with another enzyme, to help us understand how these processes might lead to liver diseases like NASH.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10649651 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of inflammation in liver fat metabolism, particularly in the context of obesity and diabetes. It focuses on a protein called TBK1, which is believed to influence how fat is stored and used in the liver. The study will explore how TBK1 interacts with another enzyme, ACSL1, during different metabolic states such as fasting and obesity. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover how inflammation contributes to liver diseases like Nonalcoholic Steatotic Hepatitis (NASH).

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from obesity, diabetes, or related liver conditions such as fatty liver disease.

Not a fit: Patients without obesity, diabetes, or liver-related issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for liver diseases associated with obesity and diabetes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting metabolic pathways in the liver can lead to significant improvements in liver health, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Conditions Diabetes Mellitusdiabetes
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.