Understanding how liver metabolism affects fatty liver disease

Hepatic Integration of Mitochondrial Oxidative Metabolism Pathways in Health and Disease

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-11085144

This study is looking at how the way our liver uses energy and processes fats might affect conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), using mice to help find new ways to improve liver health for people dealing with these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11085144 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of mitochondrial oxidative metabolism pathways in the liver and how they relate to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The study aims to explore how lipid partitioning and energy demands in the liver can influence the progression of these diseases. By using mouse models that mimic varying severities of NAFLD, researchers will assess how ketogenesis and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle interact and contribute to liver health. This could lead to new insights into potential therapeutic targets for managing liver diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 years old who are diagnosed with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with liver diseases unrelated to fatty liver disease or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from fatty liver disease, potentially reducing the risk of severe liver complications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial functions in liver diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.
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.