Understanding and targeting the hepatic stellate cell-Kupffer cell niche in MASLD and MASH fibrosis (B09)

• Subject Area: Gastroenterology
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 535081457

Alterations in the interplay between hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and Kupffer cells (KCs) are central events in the progression and regression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and steatohepatitis (MASH). Project B09 will characterize the spatiotemporal dynamics and regulatory mechanisms of this cell-cell communication using advanced technologies like single-cell and spatial transcriptomics and intravital microscopy, and investigate candidate mediators such as Reelin, IL-34, and hyaluronic acid. Studies will deeply and functionally characterize alterations of the HSC-KC crosstalk in MASLD and MASH fibrosis and identify candidates for the therapeutic restoration of HSC-KC balance with the goal to trigger fibrosis regression and restore liver homeostasis.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 412: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: Translating mechanisms to tailored therapeutic concepts
• Applicant Institution: shared FU Berlin and HU Berlin through:; Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin
• Project Head: Dr. Moritz Peiseler