Distinguished Achievements in Liver Research: Michael Karin Honored by ALF in 2026

American Liver Foundation Honors Dr. Michael Karin with 2026 Distinguished Scientific Achievement Award

The American Liver Foundation (ALF) is thrilled to announce that Dr. Michael Karin has been awarded the prestigious 2026 Distinguished Scientific Achievement Award (DSAA). A prominent figure in the field of liver research, Dr. Karin serves as the Director and Professor at the Center for Metabolic and Liver Diseases at the Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute. He received this honor during a VIP reception preceding ALF's grand 50th Anniversary National Legacy Gala in New York City on October 28, 2026.

For nearly five decades, Dr. Karin's groundbreaking research has significantly enhanced our understanding of the biological pathways connecting inflammation, metabolic diseases, and liver cancer. His extensive investigations have elucidated how inflammatory signaling and metabolic stress can lead to various liver ailments, including steatohepatitis.

Lorraine Stiehl, the CEO of the American Liver Foundation, praised Dr. Karin's contributions, remarking, "We are so honored to recognize Dr. Karin for his trailblazing research discoveries. His work has illuminated the connections between inflammation, metabolism, and liver disease, which could lead to innovative pathways for preventing and treating conditions such as steatohepatitis."

Pioneering Research: A Decades-Long Journey

Dr. Karin's lab at Sanford Burnham Prebys is currently focused on significant areas of research. These include studying the impact of inflammation biology on metabolic and nutritional states, understanding how stimulation of the immune system along with metabolic diseases like type 2 diabetes contribute to metabolic dysfunction associated with steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and exploring the interplay of inflammation and aberrant metabolism in various cancers, including pancreatic and liver cancers. His research has laid the groundwork for numerous therapeutic strategies that are presently under development, influencing how the scientific community perceives the relationship among inflammatory signaling, metabolism, and liver cancer progression.

During his tenure at UC San Diego, Dr. Karin’s research addressed immune responses and cellular stress related to chronic inflammation and cancer. Notably, he elucidated how immune checkpoint inhibitors could inhibit the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma. His findings underscore the critical importance of foundational research in shaping the future of liver health and potential treatments.

In accepting the DSAA, Dr. Karin expressed his gratitude, stating, "I'm truly honored to receive this award from the American Liver Foundation. The future development of therapies for those living with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is on the horizon, and I’m proud that our lab has been involved in key research breakthroughs that will transform treatments for millions of Americans affected by liver conditions and metabolic diseases."

Continuing the Legacy

ALF's Distinguished Scientific Achievement Award is an annual acknowledgment given to a basic researcher or physician-scientist dedicated to scientific discovery, with substantial contributions to liver research or its application in preventing, diagnosing, or treating liver disorders. Previous recipients have included notable figures in liver health, further exemplifying the importance of contributions from diverse professionals in this field.

Dr. Karin earned his PhD in Molecular Biology from UCLA in 1979, followed by a postdoctoral stint at the Fox Chase Cancer Center. He has since built a distinguished career, initially at USC School of Medicine, later transitioning to UC San Diego, where he was promoted to Distinguished Professor and remained until July 2025. He has since been instrumental in leading the Center for Metabolic and Liver Disease at Sanford Burnham Prebys.

Beyond the DSAA, the American Liver Foundation also runs a research awards program aimed at advancing liver biology and disease research. Over the past four decades, ALF has invested more than $30 million in research funding, fostering the careers of over 935 scientists and physicians specializing in liver health.

As ALF celebrates its 50th anniversary, it continues to strive to improve liver health through research funding, patient advocacy, and public education. With Dr. Karin's remarkable contributions and those of countless others, the future of liver disease understanding and treatment looks more hopeful than ever.

For more information about the American Liver Foundation, visit www.liverfoundation.org or call their helpline at 1-800-Go-LIVER (800-465-4837).