Intermountain West Clinical Center for a Childhood Liver Disease Research Network

Our goal is to continue the Intermountain West Clinical Center for the Childhood Liver Disease Research Network (ChiLDReN) at the University of Utah and Primary Children’s Hospital. During the previous funding cycle, we enrolled and retained a significant number of participants, achieved outstanding site performance, and participated in a highly collaborative manner in all Network activities. Additionally, during the previous funding cycle, we transferred, aligned, and processed genomic sequences in support of Network genomics efforts. We prioritized gene variants likely to contribute to liver disease and shared these results with ChiLDReN investigators for experimental validation studies. For the next funding cycle we propose two aims. In Aim 1, we will continue to enroll infants, children, and adolescents in with primary sclerosing cholangitis and biliary atresia; continue longitudinal follow up of previously enrolled participants in ChiLDReN’s legacy protocols; continue to submit valuable biological specimens and accurate and timely data; and collaboratively participate in all Network activities. In Aim 2, we will continue to support and coordinate Network genomics efforts including sharing of genomic data with Network investigators as outlined by Network policies; supporting the Scientific Data Coordinating Center’s compliance with genomic data sharing policies; and/or implementing innovative scientific approaches using genomic data the Network will adopt during the next iteration of ChiLDReN. Accomplishing the proposed aims as a highly collaborative Center for ChiLDReN will lead to new knowledge regarding the biochemistry, physiology, and mechanisms of childhood liver diseases, and improve the diagnostic and management options for children afflicted with them.