Understanding how liver cells can transform into bile duct cells
Delineating the molecular mechanisms of hepatocyte-to-cholangiocyte reprogramming
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-11085116
This study is looking at how liver cells can be changed into bile duct cells to help improve bile flow, especially for people with liver problems like cholestasis, and it hopes to find new treatments that could help avoid the need for a liver transplant.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11085116 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the process by which liver cells, known as hepatocytes, can be reprogrammed to become bile duct cells, which are crucial for bile flow and composition. The study focuses on the molecular mechanisms that facilitate this transformation, particularly in the context of liver injuries that lead to cholestasis, a condition that can result in severe liver damage. By identifying small molecules that can enhance this reprogramming, the research aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from cholestatic liver diseases. This could potentially provide an alternative to liver transplantation, which is currently the only effective treatment for advanced cases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with cholestatic liver diseases, such as those experiencing bile duct obstruction or cholangiopathies.
Not a fit: Patients with non-cholestatic liver diseases or those who do not have liver cell injury may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve liver function and reduce the need for liver transplants in patients with cholestatic liver diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in animal models regarding the reprogramming of liver cells, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH — PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SHIN, DONGHUN — UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH
- Study coordinator: SHIN, DONGHUN
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 below.