Clinical Research Directory

Assessment of Gut Microbiota-Derived Amino Acid Metabolite Production in Patients With MASLD

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) encompasses a spectrum of liver disorders ranging from simple steatosis-a relatively benign and non-progressive condition-to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), characterized by hepatocellular inflammation. MASLD is now the leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide, affecting approximately one in three adults, particularly those with obesity or type 2 diabetes. Recent studies have highlighted a strong interconnection between the gut microbiota, the liver, metabolism, and the immune system, collectively referred to as the gut-liver axis. Alterations in the gut microbiota are observed at all stages of MASLD, and several microbial metabolites-such as trimethylamine, bile acids, short-chain fatty acids, and ethanol-have been implicated in disease progression. Emerging evidence points to a role for gut-derived metabolites of tryptophan (Trp) and phenylalanine (Phe), including phenylacetic acid (PAA), 3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-lactate (HPL), and phenyllactate (PL). These compounds have been associated with the severity of MASLD, particularly with hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. Elevated plasma levels of aromatic amino acids (AAAs), such as L-phenylalanine and L-tyrosine, are also correlated with increased hepatic fat content. A newly identified Phe-derived metabolite, N-acetyl-phenylalanine (NAPA), together with PAA, HPL, and PL, has been shown to correlate with hepatic steatosis. These metabolites can induce steatosis both in vitro and in vivo, acting through the disruption of endoplasmic reticulum-mitochondria interactions. They therefore represent potential new therapeutic targets. These four metabolites of interest (NAPA, PAA, HPL, PL) can be produced both by gut bacteria and through endogenous human metabolism. Positive correlations between plasma NAPA concentrations and specific bacterial species have been observed, although the responsible taxa remain to be identified. HYPOTHESIS We hypothesize that the gut microbiota of MASLD patients produces aromatic amino acid-derived metabolites, contributing to the elevated plasma concentrations observed in these patients Two complementary strategies will be used : Human Microbiota Culture and Fecal Microbiota Transplantation

Evaluation of Miricorilant on Liver Fat in Patients With MASLD

A Phase 1, Open-Label Study Evaluating the Effect of Miricorilant on Hepatic Lipids in Patients with Presumed Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH)

A Single-Ascending and Repeated Dose Study of LY3849891 in Participants With Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and tolerability of the study drug LY3849891 in participants with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) who have the patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3 (PNPLA3) I148M genotype. Blood tests and magnetic resonance imaging of the liver will be performed to determine the effects of LY3849891 on MASLD and assessment of resolution of liver fibroinflammation. Blood tests will also determine how long it takes the body to eliminate LY3849891. This is a 2-part study and may last up to 32 weeks for each participant and may include 12 visits in parts A and B.

Fibrosis Lessens After Metabolic Surgery

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a major global public health concern, is commonly associated with obesity, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. MASLD is currently the most common cause of chronic liver disease affecting about 80% of people with obesity, ranging from simple fat deposits in the liver to Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), cellular injury, advanced fibrosis, cirrhosis, or hepatocellular carcinoma. Patients with MASH are also at risk for cardiovascular disease and mortality. There is no universally approved medication for MASH. Weight loss remains the cornerstone of MASH treatment. Patients meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria and who give informed consent will be enrolled in the trial and undergo the baseline liver biopsy (if none available). Approximately 120 patients with MASH and liver fibrosis (F1-F4 in baseline liver biopsy) will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio to metabolic surgery or medical treatment (incretin-based therapies ± other medical therapies for MASH) and followed for 2 years at which time a repeat liver biopsy will be performed for the assessment of the primary end point.

To Evaluate the Tolerability, Pharmacokinetics, and Pharmacodynamics of IMM-H014 in Patients With MASH

This study will evaluate the tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of consecutive Multiple treatment for 12 weeks（84 Days） in Adult Patients with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis. Participants will receive either IMM-H014 or placebo.