Understanding the protective roles of liver cells in health and disease
Protective and fibrosis-independent functions of hepatic stellate cells
This study is looking at how special liver cells can help protect and heal the liver in people with liver diseases, and it hopes to find new ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10813007 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the functions of hepatic stellate cells (HSC) in the liver, focusing on their protective roles beyond just contributing to liver fibrosis. The study aims to explore how HSC activation can benefit patients with acute and chronic liver diseases by stabilizing injured tissue and promoting the survival of liver cells. Researchers will utilize advanced experimental techniques to validate these protective functions in living organisms, addressing gaps in current knowledge about HSC. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic targets for liver diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from acute or chronic liver diseases who may benefit from enhanced liver cell function.
Not a fit: Patients with liver conditions unrelated to HSC function or those in advanced stages of liver disease may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance liver cell protection and improve outcomes for patients with liver diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the protective roles of HSC are not extensively studied, there is emerging evidence suggesting that similar approaches in understanding cell functions have shown promise in other areas of liver research.
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.