Using estrogen to treat liver disease in postmenopausal women
Estrogen Administration for the Treatment of NASH in Postmenopausal Women
This study is looking at how a small dose of estrogen applied to the skin might help improve liver health in postmenopausal women with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) by reducing fat, inflammation, and scarring in the liver.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11098463 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of low-dose, transdermal estrogen administration on non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in postmenopausal women. The study aims to understand how estrogen can reduce liver fat, inflammation, and fibrosis, which are critical factors in the progression of liver disease. By conducting a randomized, placebo-controlled trial, researchers will assess changes in liver health through biopsies and explore the immune and metabolic effects of estrogen at a cellular level. This approach could provide insights into new treatment options for women suffering from this condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women diagnosed with biopsy-proven non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
Not a fit: Patients who are not postmenopausal or do not have a diagnosis of NASH may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new therapeutic option for postmenopausal women with NASH, potentially improving liver health and reducing the need for liver transplants.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on estrogen for NASH, studies have shown promising results in related areas, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Miller, Karen K — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Miller, Karen K
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.