Understanding how intestinal inflammation affects liver diseases
Official title: Cellular mechanisms linking the intestine to inflammation involving non-intestinal organs
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10988304 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how inflammation in the gut can affect the liver, especially in people with primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), using a special mouse model to find out which cells and processes are involved, with the hope of discovering new treatments for PSC and similar liver conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | November 16, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $186,725 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI168714-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10988304 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from primary sclerosing cholangitis or related cholestatic liver diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-inflammatory liver diseases or those without any gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular mechanisms that connect inflammation in the intestine to diseases affecting the liver, particularly focusing on primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC). By using a novel mouse model that simulates both intestinal inflammation and liver fibrosis, the study aims to uncover the specific cell types and processes involved in this inter-organ link. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating PSC and similar conditions, which currently have limited treatment options. Patients may benefit from insights that could inform future therapies targeting these inflammatory pathways.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent the progression of liver diseases linked to intestinal inflammation.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding the links between intestinal health and liver diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hammer, Gianna Elena — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Hammer, Gianna Elena
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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.