Chronic metabolic disease leaves behind scarring, known as fibrosis, which can impair organ function and cause serious health complications even after treatment of the underlying metabolic condition. Unfortunately, current therapies for organ scarring are ineffective and have significant side effects. This project aims to address this unmet need by exploring a group of proteins called G-protein-coupled receptors, which are already the targets of many successful drugs for other conditions.

Using advanced technologies, we will identify which receptors are active in scar-associated cells of patient livers after weight loss and study how they affect scarring. We will then develop and test new drugs that selectively target these proteins to promote liver healing. This study combines cutting-edge experimental and computational science to create effective treatments. The results could lead to new therapies that improve the lives of millions with residual fibrotic disease in liver, kidney, heart and beyond.