Understanding how liver injury affects blood flow in portal hypertension
Official title: A Molecular Approach to the Pathogenesis of Portal Hypertension
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11031981 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how liver damage affects blood flow in people with portal hypertension, focusing on certain proteins that help control blood flow, so we can better understand the condition and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $413,771 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK113159-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031981 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with portal hypertension or those with liver injury-related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without liver disease or those not experiencing portal hypertension may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind portal hypertension, particularly focusing on how liver injury disrupts the balance of blood flow regulators. The team will explore the role of specific proteins that affect nitric oxide production, which is crucial for maintaining proper blood flow in the liver. By examining the interactions between these proteins and their impact on liver cells, the research aims to uncover new insights into the pathogenesis of this condition. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how portal hypertension develops and potential new therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve blood flow and reduce complications associated with portal hypertension.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the molecular pathways involved in liver diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rockey, Don C. — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Rockey, Don C.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Noninvasive portal pressure estimation using ultrasound-based subharmonic signals
A noninvasive ultrasound method to estimate portal vein pressure in adults with cirrhosis to help manage varices and ascites.
-
Noninvasive MRI test to measure liver and portal blood pressure
An advanced MRI technique to measure pressure in the liver and portal circulation for people with chronic liver disease or cirrhosis.
-
How molecular changes in the liver cause portal hypertension
This project looks at how changes in proteins that control nitric oxide in liver blood vessel cells lead to portal hypertension in people with liver injury.
-
Under-the-skin medicine for fluid buildup (ascites) from portal hypertension
A new injectable medicine given under the skin to help people with cirrhosis who have hard-to-treat fluid buildup in the belly.
-
Noninvasive method to measure portal vein pressure in cirrhosis
A noninvasive ultrasound technique called SHAPE could measure portal vein pressure in people with cirrhosis to help manage complications like variceal bleeding and ascites.
-
Noninvasive evaluation of liver pressure and health using advanced imaging techniques
This study is testing a new, painless way to check liver health and pressure using advanced imaging technology, which could help people with chronic liver disease get better and safer care without needing invasive procedures.
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.