Cholestatic liver diseases (CLDs) are severe diseases associated with the accumulation of bile acids in the liver, leading to a progressive decline in liver function. Because there are no effective therapeutic options for the vast majority of CLDs patients, many need a liver transplantation for long-term survival. Unfortunately, suitable donor livers are scarce, and liver transplantation and aftercare are very costly. Additionally, the life-long immunosuppressive treatment that is required following transplantation profoundly reduces the quality of life of these patients.
The novel approach of this project aims to reduce the development of liver damage in patients with CLDs, thereby alleviating symptoms and preventing or delaying the need for liver transplantation. The invention described in this project focuses on modulating the pathways of hepatic bile acid metabolism in the liver that have not been previously exploited for this purpose. Preclinical work has demonstrated the efficacy of this approach in several severe models of CLDs.
The aim of this project is to further develop the potential new treatment to reach a stage at which it becomes attractive for licensing by commercial partners.
Six projects were granted in the 2024 Demonstrator round. The next NWO Demonstrator round will start in December. Researchers interested in NWO Demonstrator funding are invited to contact Business Generator Groningen or the UMCG Innovation Center to discuss the possibilities.
For more information on De Boer’s counter-intuitive treatment for cholestatic liver disease, please contact [email protected]
