Using young liver cells to rejuvenate older livers
Official title: Heterochronic hepatocyte transplantation to rejuvenate the aged liver
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10987403 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether putting young liver cells into older livers can help improve their health and function, which could lead to new treatments for people facing age-related liver issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $442,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG086701-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10987403 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related liver dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute liver failure or those who are not experiencing age-related liver issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how transplanting young liver cells into older livers can potentially reverse aging effects. By using a technique called heterochronic hepatocyte transplantation, the study aims to understand how young cells can influence the function and health of aged liver tissue. The approach includes comparing the effects of young and old liver cells on metabolism and overall liver function, with controls to ensure accurate results. Patients may benefit from insights into new treatments for age-related liver decline.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that rejuvenate liver function in older patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with young blood rejuvenating effects in animal models, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: White, James P. — Duke University
- Study coordinator: White, James P.
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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.