Understanding why some obese youth develop liver fat accumulation
Pathophysiologic mechanisms leading to intrahepatic fat accumulation in obese youth
This study is looking at why young people with obesity, especially Hispanic youth, are more likely to develop nonalcoholic fatty liver disease compared to non-Hispanic Black youth, by exploring how their bodies process carbohydrates differently, which could help create better prevention strategies for those at risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10762338 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in obese youth, particularly focusing on differences between Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black populations. It aims to understand how these groups metabolize carbohydrates differently, which may influence their risk of developing liver fat accumulation. By analyzing metabolic pathways, the study seeks to identify why Hispanic youth are more susceptible to NAFLD compared to their non-Hispanic Black counterparts. The findings could lead to targeted prevention strategies for at-risk youth.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include obese youth, particularly those who are Hispanic or non-Hispanic Black.
Not a fit: Patients who are not obese or do not fall within the specified age and ethnic groups may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in obese youth.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown varying susceptibility to NAFLD among different ethnic groups, suggesting that this study's focus on metabolic differences is both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Santoro, Nicola — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Santoro, Nicola
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.