Understanding how PFAS chemicals affect liver health
Official title: Research Project 1: Mechanisms of PFAS hepatotoxicity: A Multi-Omics Study Using Human Liver Spheroids
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10939226 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain harmful chemicals called PFAS can affect the liver and lead to conditions like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and it's aimed at helping people who might be at risk by finding better ways to diagnose and treat these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 24, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $237,592 |
| NIH project number | 1P42ES036506-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10939226 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals exposed to PFAS, particularly those with or at risk for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have no history of PFAS exposure or existing liver conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the harmful effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on liver metabolism, particularly focusing on their role in causing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Using advanced 3D liver spheroid models, the study will explore the biological mechanisms by which PFAS disrupt liver function through various high-tech methods, including single-cell transcriptomics and proteomics. The goal is to identify individuals at high risk for PFAS-related liver issues and develop tools for better diagnosis and treatment. By collaborating with other research projects, this work aims to address the broader problem of PFAS contamination in drinking water.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved identification and management of liver diseases linked to PFAS exposure, ultimately enhancing patient care.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the health impacts of PFAS, but this specific multi-omics approach using 3D liver models is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Golden, Lucy Mary — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Golden, Lucy Mary
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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.