Using bile acids to improve treatment for metabolic diseases
Targeting bile acid composition to treat metabolic diseases
This study is looking at how bile acids can help treat obesity-related health issues like type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease by blocking a specific enzyme, which could lead to new medications with fewer side effects for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Duarte, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11013360 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of bile acids in treating obesity-related metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The approach focuses on inhibiting a specific enzyme, CYP8B1, which regulates bile acid composition in the body. By developing targeted inhibitors for this enzyme, the research aims to enhance metabolic health and reduce obesity-related complications. Patients may benefit from new pharmacological therapies that have fewer side effects compared to current treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 who are struggling with obesity or related metabolic conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who are not affected by obesity or metabolic diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatments for obesity and its associated metabolic diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of targeting bile acid composition is innovative, similar research has shown promise in other metabolic disease treatments, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Duarte, United States
- Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope — Duarte, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Wendong — Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope
- Study coordinator: Huang, Wendong
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.