Understanding Liver Disease Progression in NAFLD and NASH
Impaired VLDL secretion in progression of NAFLD and NASH in mice and humans
This work explores how problems with fat secretion from the liver contribute to the worsening of fatty liver disease and liver scarring in people.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11167705 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our goal is to better understand the factors that lead to liver scarring and liver cancer in patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). We are looking at how the liver's ability to release fats, called VLDL secretion, might be impaired in some patients, even those who are not obese or insulin resistant. By comparing findings from specially designed mouse models with observations in human patients, we hope to uncover new ways to prevent or reverse liver damage. This could lead to more personalized treatments for those whose liver disease is likely to get worse.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant to patients with NAFLD or NASH, especially those whose disease is progressing or who have impaired VLDL secretion.
Not a fit: Patients without NAFLD or NASH, or those whose liver disease is not linked to impaired VLDL secretion, may not directly benefit from this specific research focus.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets for medications to prevent or reverse liver scarring and liver cancer in patients with NAFLD and NASH.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has identified genetic factors that impair VLDL secretion and are linked to liver disease progression, suggesting this approach builds on existing knowledge.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davidson, Nicholas O. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Davidson, Nicholas O.
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.