Understanding how intestinal inflammation affects liver diseases

Cellular mechanisms linking the intestine to inflammation involving non-intestinal organs

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · NIH-10988304

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

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF UTAH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10988304 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from primary sclerosing cholangitis or related cholestatic liver diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with non-inflammatory liver diseases or those without any gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

SALT LAKE CITY, 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 →

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.