Understanding the genetic factors behind nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Official title: Genetic Regulation of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10804636 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might affect nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by using special cells from patients to see how certain genetic differences can lead to fat buildup in the liver, helping us learn more about why some people may have more severe cases of this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | June 8, 2021 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $537,831 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK130391-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10804636 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are at risk for or diagnosed with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with alcoholic liver disease or those without any genetic predisposition to NAFLD may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic regulation of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition affecting a significant portion of American adults. By utilizing patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), the study aims to explore how specific genetic variants contribute to lipid accumulation in the liver. The researchers will analyze these cells in both their undifferentiated state and after differentiation into liver-like cells to better understand the genetic predisposition to NAFLD. This innovative approach seeks to uncover new genetic factors that may influence the severity of the disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using patient-derived cell models to study genetic diseases, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Medina, Marisa Wong — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Medina, Marisa Wong
Related research
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-
Gm4951 gene and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
Researchers are looking at whether changes in the Gm4951 gene affect how much fat builds up in the liver for people with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
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.