MASH Clinical Trials in California - Advancing MASH Care and Shaping the Future of Treatment

We are leading the charge in MASH research, conducting clinical trials in California to find new ways to treat Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), also known as Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH). Our focus on MASH research will shape the future of care for this liver disease and deliver solutions for patients with metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH)

MASH, or NASH, is a condition where liver inflammation is caused by metabolic dysfunction, where fat builds up in the liver and causes damage over time. At FOMAT Medical Research, we believe research is key to improving the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of MASH, as it affects individuals and communities.

Why Clinical Trials Matter for MASH Research

Clinical trials are the way to move forward in NASH/MASH. These studies will address the current challenges in NASH diagnosis and management including developing non-invasive diagnostic tools, more treatment options and understanding the variability in disease progression. FOMAT wants to improve patient outcomes and give hope to those living with this condition.

Sick woman suffering from pain in bathroom and illustration of unhealthy liver. Hepatitis disease

Symptoms and Stages of MASH/NASH

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), usually has no symptoms. As it progresses, symptoms like fatigue, upper abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea and jaundice may appear. The disease progresses through stages from simple steatosis (fatty liver) to steatohepatitis (inflammation and liver damage) to fibrosis (scar tissue formation) and potentially to cirrhosis or liver cancer if left untreated.

Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of MASH is unknown, it is associated with several risk factors. Obesity and type 2 diabetes significantly increase the risk, as do high levels of 'bad' LDL cholesterol and metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions that includes hypertension and abnormal cholesterol levels. These factors contribute to the excess fat in the liver, leading to MASH.

Complications of NASH/MASH

MASH can lead to severe complications such as cirrhosis, characterized by permanent liver scarring and impaired liver function. This can progress to liver failure or liver cancer, specifically hepatocellular carcinoma. MASH also increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and exacerbates conditions like type 2 diabetes due to increased insulin resistance. Early detection and proactive management are key to preventing these serious outcomes

What are Clinical Trials?

Clinical trials are research studies that involve human participants to test the safety and efficacy of interventions like medications, surgical procedures or lifestyle changes. These studies are needed to determine if new treatments work. For Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), formerly known as Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), clinical trials are looking at new treatment options, diagnostic tools and understanding of the disease. Being in a clinical trial means you can contribute to medical knowledge and possibly get access to new treatments before they are available to the public.

Why Join a Clinical Trial?

Being in a clinical trial means you can get access to new treatments for Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), formerly known as Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) that are not available to the public. This is especially important when current treatments don’t work and can bring significant personal health benefits. You will also be contributing to the data that will help researchers understand MASH and develop treatment and care for the condition. Being in a clinical trial means you can be part of the development of new medical interventions that can improve life for future patients. Plus, clinical trials have additional medical monitoring by healthcare professionals, which is an extra layer of care.

Our Active Studies

  • Oxnard, Santa Maria

    NASH/MASH

    Participating in this clinical trial can help improve treatments for a liver condition called MASH/NASH, which causes liver damage. The study is testing a new medicine to see if it can help improve liver health for people with moderate to advanced liver fibrosis.

    Criteria & Qualifications: • Must be 18 years or older.
    • Diagnosed with MASH/NASH and have moderate to advanced liver fibrosis.
    • Cannot join if you have other liver diseases or a history of chronic alcohol use.

    Compensation: Contact us for more information

    Read more
  • Oxnard, Santa Maria

    NASH

    Help us improve treatment options for people with NASH and related health conditions. This clinical trial is studying a once-monthly therapy to reduce liver fat and improve metabolic health in diverse populations.

    Criteria & Qualifications: • Adults diagnosed with NASH.
    • Includes people with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes.
    • Open to individuals seeking better liver and metabolic health management.

    Compensation: Contact us for more information

    Read more
  • Santa Maria

    NASH/MASH Trial

    NASH/MASH is a liver disease with inflammation and damage from fat buildup. If you have NASH/MASH, consider participating in our study to help find new treatments.

    Criteria & Qualifications:  • Must be 18 years or older.
    • Diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis.
    • Is willing to provide medical records.

    Compensation: Contact us for more information.

    Read more
  • Santa Maria

    NASH/MASH Study

    Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition where fat accumulates in the liver. NASH, the more severe form, causes swelling and damage to the liver. Currently, there is no existing treatment for NASH/MASH.

    Criteria & Qualifications:  • Is at least 18 years of age or older.
    • Inflammation and liver damage, also known as Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
    • Must be weight stable for 6 months.

    Compensation: Up to $3,000.

    Read more

Frequently Asked Questions

Clinical trials vary in length depending on the condition being studied and the medication. For example, trials for chronic conditions require ongoing monitoring of participants to evaluate treatment effectiveness. Antibiotic trials are usually short, as the treatment is only a few days.

Sometimes yes, sometimes no, but you will have the support and guidance of the research team.

As a research participant, you have the right to quit the study at any time, the right to be given new information about the study, and the right to ask questions at any time and have them answered promptly.

Yes. Although the purpose of the study is not to treat an individual for any health condition, a study may involve clinical procedures such as an MRI, blood tests, hearing tests, etc. In order to complete these and other tests, the researcher must know the volunteer's general state of health to ensure his or her safety during the clinical study process.

No, you don’t have to be a US citizen to participate in a clinical trial. We don’t ask for your social security number. All we need is a physical address and some form of ID that we can use during the enrollment process.

Yes, you can refer a friend or family member to join the study, click here!

Who is FOMAT Medical Research?

FOMAT Medical Research is California’s largest research site network, focused on advancing clinical research and improving patient outcomes. With multiple research sites and a passion for diversity in healthcare, FOMAT collaborates with industry Sponsors and CROs to bring new treatments to market across multiple therapeutic areas. FOMAT is a founding member of hyperCORE International, a network of fully professionalized research site organizations.

FOMAT's Commitment to MASH Research

FOMAT Medical Research has extensive experience in MASH clinical trials. We have multiple studies ongoing and completed. To join a trial, contact us today!

Meet Our Experts

Karen Simon, M.D.

Karen Simon, MD

Gastroenterologist
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Camarillo & Oxnard, CA
Elias Tarakji, MD

Elias A. Tarakji, MD

Gastroenterologist
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Arcadia, CA
Keval Shah, D.O.

Dr. Keval Shah, DO

Gastroenterologist
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Santa Maria, CA