Using nanoparticles to prevent liver cancer caused by alcohol consumption
Multifunctional Nanoparticle Platform to Prevent Alcohol-Associated HCC Development
This study is exploring a new way to use tiny particles to help treat alcohol-related liver disease and lower the risk of liver cancer by delivering medicine directly to the right liver cells, making it easier for the treatment to work better than what’s currently available.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rhode Island NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kingston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10880655 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new type of nanoparticle platform designed to treat alcohol-related liver disease and prevent the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The approach involves targeting specific liver cells to deliver anti-fibrotic drugs and facilitate better penetration into fibrotic liver tissue. By activating certain receptors in the liver, the nanoparticles aim to reduce inflammation and fibrosis, which are key contributors to cancer development. This innovative method seeks to provide a more effective treatment option compared to current non-specific therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of heavy alcohol consumption who are at risk of developing liver fibrosis or hepatocellular carcinoma.
Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or have liver disease unrelated to alcohol may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a targeted treatment that significantly reduces the risk of liver cancer in patients with alcohol-related liver disease.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary investigations by the research team have shown promising results with similar nanoparticle approaches, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Kingston, United States
- University of Rhode Island — Kingston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Menon, Jyothi Unnikrishna — University of Rhode Island
- Study coordinator: Menon, Jyothi Unnikrishna
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.