Vontobel Stiftung has awarded Dr. Sheida Moghadamrad for her project, which aims to deepen our understanding of Metabolic dysfunction fatty liver disease (MASLD) by exploring the role of Paneth cells -specialized intestinal innate immune cells- in regulating gut barrier function and lipid absorption.
Utilizing advanced methodologies such as in vivo laser endomicroscopy, 3D and 2D mini gut models, and Imaging Mass Cytometry (in experimental models and patients), the project aims to explore how Paneth cells modulate hepatic fat accumulation by regulating the gut barrier and lipid transport during disease.
This comprehensive approach could significantly contribute to understanding the underlying mechanisms of MASLD, unveiling new therapeutic strategies aimed at modulating PC function, and ultimately contributing to better management of this increasingly prevalent and often life-threatening disease.