Understanding Liver Cells in NASH-Related Liver Cancer
Tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressive roles of Hepatic Stellate Cell Subpopulations in NASH-HCC
['FUNDING_R01'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11127598
This research explores how certain liver cells, called hepatic stellate cells, can both help and harm the development of liver cancer in people with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11127598 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Liver cancer, especially hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a serious global health concern, with rising rates linked to conditions like obesity and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We know that liver scarring, or fibrosis, is a major risk factor for HCC, but its exact role is not fully understood. This project focuses on specific liver cells, called hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), which are key players in liver scarring. Our early findings suggest that different types of HSCs might either encourage or protect against liver cancer growth. By understanding these different roles, we hope to find new ways to prevent or treat NASH-related liver cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) who are at risk for or have developed hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Not a fit: Patients whose liver cancer is not related to NASH or fibrosis may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that target specific liver cells to prevent or slow the progression of liver cancer in patients with NASH.
How similar studies have performed: While the general role of hepatic stellate cells in liver disease is known, this project presents novel preliminary data suggesting these cells have both tumor-promoting and tumor-suppressive roles in HCC, making this a new direction.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SCHWABE, ROBERT F. — COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: SCHWABE, ROBERT F.
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.
Conditions: Cancer Cause, Cancer Etiology, Cancers