Due to the prevalence of obesity, NASH has become an increasingly common disease with limited drug therapies. Dr. Arion Kennedy and her research group demonstrate that CD8+ T cells are key contributers to NASH-associated liver. However, the mechanisms which drive activation of hepatic CD8+ T cells in NASH remains to be investigated. CD8+ T cells are primarily activated via antigens (peptides) presented by antigen-presenting cells.

Dr. Kennedy and her lab focused their attention on exploring whether NASH is regulated by an antigen-driven process and alters the immunopeptidome. Their studies using Taconic's Diet Induced NASH-B6 male mice revealed upregulation of proteins necessary for antigen presentation in NASH livers. They examined the immunopeptidome and identified unique peptides that regulate the activation of hepatic CD8+ T cells and NASH progression.