Fatty liver disease is one of the fastest-growing liver conditions in the United States. According to research published in Diabetes Spectrum, the prevalence of NAFLD in the U.S. has reached 38%, representing an increase of more than 50% over the past three decades. For Jacksonville residents who want access to cutting-edge therapies before they reach the market, clinical research trials offer a powerful option. Below, we break down the best places for fatty liver disease clinical research in Jacksonville and what makes each one stand out.
What Is Fatty Liver Disease?
Fatty liver disease is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in liver cells, potentially leading to inflammation, scarring, and even liver failure. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), now increasingly referred to as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), is the most common form. NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis) is the progressive, inflammatory stage of NAFLD that can advance to cirrhosis.
Risk factors include obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and high triglycerides. According to a global prevalence review in PMC, NASH is now the fastest-rising indication for liver transplantation in the United States. Because there are still limited FDA-approved therapies, clinical research is essential to finding better treatments.
Why Jacksonville Is a Hub for Liver Research
Jacksonville has emerged as a significant center for gastroenterology and hepatology clinical trials. Organizations like Encore Borland Groover Clinical Research (EBGCR) and the broader ENCORE Research Group operate multiple sites across Northeast Florida. EBGCR alone participates alongside seven other Florida sites under the ENCORE umbrella, creating a large and efficient research network.
The region's diverse patient population, high rates of metabolic conditions, and world-class gastroenterology infrastructure make it an ideal setting for fatty liver trials. Jacksonville-based sites have contributed to landmark studies, including trials for Rezdiffra (resmetirom), the groundbreaking MASH therapy.
Top Fatty Liver Clinical Research Sites in Jacksonville
1. Encore Borland Groover Clinical Research (EBGCR)
EBGCR is a leading gastroenterology-focused clinical research organization located at 4800 Belfort Road, Jacksonville, FL 32256. With over 26 years of research experience, EBGCR physician investigators care for more than 100,000 patients each year with digestive disorders. The site offers a 2,000 sq ft dedicated research facility with on-site imaging (MRE, MRI-PDFF, ultrasound, CT), an endoscopy lab, infusion center, and complimentary FibroScan screenings for fatty liver.
EBGCR's physician investigators include Dr. Ana Corregidor, medical director of Borland Groover's Liver Center, who is active in clinical trials for liver diseases. The site is currently enrolling participants in fatty liver (NASH/MASH) studies.
2. Jacksonville Center for Clinical Research (JCCR)
Located at 4085 University Blvd. South, JCCR has a long track record in multi-therapeutic-area research. Led by cardiologist and researcher Dr. Michael Koren, JCCR participated in resmetirom (Rezdiffra) trials and has been involved in numerous hepatology and cardiovascular studies. JCCR is part of the ENCORE Research Group network.
3. Westside Center for Clinical Research
Situated at 810 Lane Avenue South, Jacksonville, FL 32205, this site is another ENCORE Research Group member. Dr. Matthew Braddock, D.O., serves as a principal and sub-investigator on trials involving diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and fatty liver disease. The Westside location offers convenient access for patients on Jacksonville's west side.
4. St. Johns Center for Clinical Research
Based in nearby St. Augustine at 100 Whetstone Place, this ENCORE-affiliated site extends the reach of Jacksonville-area liver research southward. St. Johns Center participated in Rezdiffra trials and continues to enroll for NASH/MASH studies.
What to Expect When You Join a Fatty Liver Clinical Trial
A clinical trial is a research study conducted to assess whether investigational drugs, devices, or treatment approaches are safe and effective. Every clinical trial in the U.S. must be approved by an Institutional Review Board (IRB), an independent committee that ensures participant safety and ethical standards.
During a fatty liver trial, participants typically undergo blood tests, imaging scans such as FibroScan or MRI-PDFF, and regular health monitoring. FibroScan is a non-invasive, ultrasound-based tool that measures liver stiffness and fat content in minutes, without sedation. Some studies may also require a liver biopsy for confirmation.
Participants may receive investigational treatments or a placebo, and health insurance is generally not required to take part. Many trials offer compensation for time and travel, along with expert medical oversight at no cost.
Site-by-Site Comparison Table
| Research Site | Location | Key Specialty | On-Site FibroScan | Fatty Liver Trials |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EBGCR | 4800 Belfort Rd, Jacksonville | GI & Hepatology | Yes (Complimentary) | Currently Enrolling |
| Jacksonville Center for Clinical Research | 4085 University Blvd S, Jacksonville | Multi-Therapeutic | Yes | Currently Enrolling |
| Westside Center for Clinical Research | 810 Lane Ave S, Jacksonville | Metabolic & GI | Contact Site | Currently Enrolling |
| St. Johns Center for Clinical Research | 100 Whetstone Pl, St. Augustine | Multi-Therapeutic | Contact Site | Currently Enrolling |
Key Takeaways
- Fatty liver disease (NAFLD/MASLD) affects approximately 38% of U.S. adults, and clinical trials are critical for developing new treatments.
- Jacksonville is home to multiple dedicated fatty liver clinical research sites, led by experienced gastroenterologists and hepatologists.
- EBGCR offers complimentary FibroScan screenings, on-site imaging, and over 26 years of GI clinical research experience.
- Participating in a clinical trial does not require health insurance, and many studies compensate volunteers for time and travel.
- ENCORE Research Group sites in Jacksonville contributed to trials for Rezdiffra (resmetirom), the first FDA-recognized MASH therapy.
- Every clinical trial must be IRB-approved, ensuring participant safety and ethical oversight.
- Multiple Jacksonville-area locations make it convenient for residents across the city to access fatty liver research.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease is a condition characterized by the buildup of excess fat in the liver. When accompanied by inflammation, it is called steatohepatitis (NASH or MASH). Without treatment, it can progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver failure.
Who qualifies for a fatty liver clinical trial in Jacksonville?
Eligibility varies by study, but common criteria include adults aged 18 to 80 with risk factors such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or high triglycerides. A FibroScan or blood panel can help determine if you qualify.
Is a FibroScan screening really free at EBGCR?
Yes. EBGCR offers complimentary FibroScan tests for fatty liver as part of their clinical research screening process. The scan is painless, non-invasive, and takes only a few minutes.
Do I need health insurance to participate?
No. Health insurance is not required to join a fatty liver clinical trial. Study-related care, lab work, and medications are typically provided at no cost to participants.
What is the difference between NAFLD, NASH, MASLD, and MASH?
NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) has been renamed MASLD (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease) under updated nomenclature. NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis) is now called MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis). MASH is the more severe, inflammatory form of the disease.
Are fatty liver clinical trials safe?
All clinical trials in the U.S. are overseen by the FDA and must receive IRB approval before enrolling participants. Research teams closely monitor safety throughout each study.
How do I sign up for a fatty liver trial at EBGCR?
You can contact EBGCR directly at (904) 680-0871, email research@borlandgroover.com, or visit the EBGCR contact page to request more information or schedule a FibroScan.
What treatments are being tested in Jacksonville fatty liver trials?
Current trials investigate a range of investigational therapies, including oral medications and injectable agents targeting liver inflammation, fibrosis, and metabolic drivers of the disease. Jacksonville sites have previously studied resmetirom, now approved as Rezdiffra.
Take the Next Step
If you or someone you know is living with fatty liver disease or has risk factors like obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol, a clinical trial could provide access to the latest treatments. Contact Encore Borland Groover Clinical Research today to schedule a complimentary FibroScan and find out if you qualify for a currently enrolling fatty liver study.