A study found that COVID-19 leads to progressive cholestasis, cholestatic liver failure, and secondary sclerosing cholangitis in 15% of patients with pre-existing liver disease. These patients often require intensive care and may experience irreversible bile duct damage.
A new study has found that nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in children significantly increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The study, published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, revealed that among 892 children with NAFLD, 6.6% developed type 2 diabetes, with the incidence rate rising by 3% annually.
A multicenter study of 736 AIH patients who underwent liver transplants found risk factors including age, immunosuppressant use, and serum IgG levels. Recurrent AIH also affected survival rates, with 81% of patients dying within five years.
Research in the Journal of Hepatology suggests that COVID-19 vaccines are unlikely to cause liver injury, but liver transplant patients may experience delayed care due to the pandemic. The study found that vaccinated patients with liver disease had a lower antibody response compared to healthy patients.
A preclinical study by Weill Cornell Medicine researchers reveals that a specific group of fungi residing in the intestines can protect against intestinal injury and influence social behavior in mice. The findings suggest a novel signaling system connecting fungi in the gut to their host's cells, including immune cells and neurons.
A comprehensive analysis of over 2,200 patients in Europe reveals the complexity of cholangiocarcinoma, a rare cancer often diagnosed at an advanced stage. The study highlights the need for education programs to raise awareness and improve early diagnosis, survival, and quality of life.
A recent study found that most common hand disinfectants are ineffective against the hepatitis E virus (HEV), a leading cause of acute liver inflammation worldwide. Despite being non-enveloped and highly resistant to chemical influences, HEV can still be infectious after exposure to certain disinfectants.
Researchers discovered a key growth factor protein, HB-EGF, produced by immune-regulating cells that protects the gut against inflammatory bowel disease. ILC3s produce HB-EGF to counteract TNF-induced inflammation and maintain gut barrier function.
A new algorithm can determine patients' liver cancer risk in a single examination, providing an efficient screening method for those at high risk. The tool uses blood values and liver stiffness to identify individuals with a higher likelihood of developing hepatocellular carcinoma after hepatitis C treatment.
Researchers at HKUMed have discovered a stepwise upregulation of polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR) in circulating extracellular vesicles from liver cancer patients, suggesting its potential as a non-invasive diagnostic marker. The study also found that pIgR-enriched EVs promote cancer stemness and tumorigenesis in mouse models, ...
A large-scale epidemiologic study in China identified links between long-term exposure to ambient air pollution and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Long-term exposure to air pollution may increase the risk of MAFLD, especially in individuals with unhealthy lifestyles and central obesity.
Researchers discover a unique subset of group 3 innate lymphoid cells that circulate in the bloodstream and infiltrate the brain, sparking inflammation in conditions like MS. Countering their activity could be a new therapeutic strategy for such conditions.
A team of researchers at UC Davis Health has developed a novel PET imaging-based tool to detect liver inflammation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The tool uses dynamic PET imaging and mathematical modeling to measure glucose transport from blood to liver tissue, allowing clinicians to quantify liver inflammation.
A study by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators found that antibodies secreted in the gut help control pathogenic forms of gut fungi like Candida albicans. However, patients with Crohn's disease often have impaired antibody function, leading to an overgrowth of harmful fungi.
The European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) is hosting its 57th International Liver Congress (ILC) 2022 in London, where experts will present and share the latest science on liver diseases. The event aims to enhance awareness, prevention, treatment, and management of liver diseases globally.
Researchers have found that synthetic bile acid Nor-UDCA directly affects the immune system and reduces inflammation in chronic-inflammatory liver disease. The therapy also guides misdirected CD8-T cells back onto their correct path, allowing them to resume their normal function.
A new study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that computer-aided detection can improve colonoscopy quality by reducing the miss rate, with a relative reduction of nearly a third when used in conjunction with standard-of-care colonoscopy. The study suggests that artificial intelligence may be an important tool...
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's grow functional biliary organoids to reveal previously unknown cell defects and a potential repair approach. The study identifies structural defects in cells that form bile ducts, which can lead to liver fibrosis and failure.
Researchers developed a liquid-injecting self-orienting millimeter-scale applicator (L-SOMA) that administers typically injected liquid medications orally. In large animal preclinical models, the technology delivered four commonly injected medications with comparable results to injections.
A new study found that coeliac disease cases in school-age children have doubled in the past 25 years due to mass screening. The prevalence of coeliac disease was found to be 1.6%, significantly higher than previously thought, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
A recent study published in Hepatology has identified a molecular signature for ER stress in patients with primary sclerosing cholangitis, which is associated with poorer prognosis and higher incidence of complications. The discovery opens up new treatment options by targeting ER stress with drugs already in clinical testing.
Researchers have identified CNNM4 protein as key regulator of magnesium in the liver and potential therapeutic target for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. High expression of CNNM4 protein is associated with inflammation and liver fibrosis in patients with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
The International Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology Diseases is a new subscription-based journal publishing articles on global significance gastrointestinal and liver diseases. It aims to publish experimental and theoretical results in detail, covering advancements in management and diagnosis of diseases.
A new study has identified three gene variants that may help predict which children with eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) are likely to respond to proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medication therapy. The research found that children carrying these variants are at increased risk of relapse after one year of PPI maintenance therapy.
A new study published in Hepatology has identified a gene, Fas Associated Factor Family Member 2 (FAF2), that may reduce the risk of developing alcoholic cirrhosis. The researchers found that this gene is involved in lipid droplet organization pathway and is linked to other genes that increase the likelihood of liver disease.
Australian experts warn of a surge in chronic liver disease due to alcohol misuse and obesity-related liver disease. The number of cases has increased three-fold over the past 10-15 years, with over 6 million Australians affected.
Scientists have identified a microRNA in obese mouse mothers that increases the odds of liver cancer in their offspring and throughout future generations. The study found that maternal obesity causes susceptibility to liver cancer in offspring, with the severity increasing over generations.
Women with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in pregnancy face increased risks of maternal and infant health complications. The study found that NAFLD is associated with hypertensive complications, preterm birth, and maternal bleeding after delivery, independent of other metabolic diseases.
A comprehensive study published in the Journal of Hepatology shows women and men have similar mortality rates from cirrhosis, contradicting previous research. The study analyzed data from 20,045 patients with cirrhosis, finding no difference in liver-related cause of death between genders.
Researchers have identified three new genes that play a role in preventing fatty liver development. The genes IRGM, Ifgga2, and Ifgga4 produce regulatory proteins that counteract fat accumulation in the liver, but genetic variations lead to reduced protein production, resulting in increased fat content.
A new special issue of Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology highlights major advances in IBD treatment. The issue provides comprehensive updates on algorithmic treatments to reduce morbidity and emphasizes the importance of treating beyond symptom relief.
A study published in Hepatology reveals that Annexin A6 is essential for liver regeneration after a transplant or hepatic surgery. The protein helps maintain glucose homeostasis, allowing the liver to recover and restore its functions.
Research reveals TGF-β-driven reduction of cytoglobin (CYGB) in HSCs leads to oxidative DNA damage and liver fibrosis in NASH. CYGB has a protective effect on hepatic parenchymal cells by scavenging hydroxyl radicals.
A new study found that exercise can prevent the development of liver cancer in obese mice with fatty liver disease. The research suggests that voluntary exercise exerts its protective effects via molecular signaling pathways, including tumor suppressor gene p53 and stress-activated protein kinase JNK1.
A new 12-week clinical trial found that heat-inactivated Bifidobacterium bifidum MIMBb75 improved IBS symptoms by at least 30% in 34% of patients compared to 19% on placebo. The treatment was also associated with a strong placebo effect, but the dead bacterial cells were still significantly better than placebo.
Key information for gastroenterologists and patients with chronic digestive conditions about COVID-19 includes prioritizing patient safety and maintaining medication regimens. Laboratory findings in COVID-19 patients also include liver function test abnormalities, emphasizing the importance of monitoring.
A study published in JPGN found that proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase the risk of fractures in pediatric patients. The analysis showed a significantly higher fracture rate in children exposed to PPIs, with a 20% higher probability of fracture compared to non-exposed children.
A study by Stanford University School of Medicine investigators found that patients with ulcerative colitis have depleted levels of secondary bile acids and Ruminococcaceae bacteria in their intestines. These findings suggest that supplementing or restoring these missing metabolites may effectively treat intestinal inflammation.
Research finds that persistent NRF2 activation may contribute to enlarged liver and fatty liver diseases, affecting over 200 million worldwide. AKT inhibitors show promise in treating hepatomegaly.
Researchers have discovered that indole, a natural compound found in gut bacteria and cruciferous vegetables, can reduce inflammation and fatty deposits in the liver. This study provides hope for new treatments and preventive measures for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
A UK study found that over 20% of young adults have fatty liver disease, with those who are overweight or obese at greatest risk. The research highlights the need for improved liver health awareness and management among this age group.
Researchers have found that MYC and TWIST1, two genes that promote cancer development, work together to recruit immune cells to tumors, creating an environment that facilitates cancer cell spread. Blocking a key step in this process may help prevent metastasis.
Researchers propose using transient elastography as a screening method for detecting liver fibrosis in primary care. The study shows that this approach is highly cost-effective and can improve patient outcomes, with a 12% probability of cost saving.
Researchers at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center have developed a new 'virtual biopsy' method that accurately diagnoses precancerous pancreatic cysts with unprecedented accuracy. This diagnostic tool allows doctors to eliminate precancerous cysts and potentially save lives by identifying them early.
Researchers successfully applied phage therapy to mice with alcohol-related liver disease, eradicating the disease by targeting destructive gut bacteria. Nearly 90% of patients with cytolysin-positive alcoholic hepatitis died within 180 days, but phage therapy showed promise in treating the condition.
A new study from Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center reveals that many teenagers who undergo bariatric surgery experience low iron and B12 levels years later. Regular nutrition check-ups and supplementation can minimize these risks, emphasizing the importance of annual assessments.
Researchers discovered a new protein, clathrin, involved in liver cancer development and progression. High levels of clathrin expression correlate with the activation of TGF-β pathway, promoting tumor growth and invasion.
Researchers at the University of Tsukuba found that deleting Elovl6 specifically in liver cells protects mice from developing insulin resistance due to excessive sugar consumption. However, this deletion has no effect when combined with a high-fat diet, highlighting the complexity of lipid metabolism in the liver.
A major study across 195 countries found that global death rates for pancreatic cancer and incidence rates for colorectal cancer increased by 10% between 1990 and 2017. The study also reported significant increases in cases of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and a rise in obesity-related risk factors for pancreatic cancer.
A new study from National University of Singapore (NUS) researchers has demonstrated a potential method for treating advanced liver cancers like hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Targeting the JAK/STAT signalling pathway, they found that a class of small molecule drugs can effectively reduce cancer progression in preclinical models, with...
The prevalence of NAFLD is rising due to a preventable epidemic, with over half of adults and one third of children classified as overweight or obese. The condition is linked to lack of physical activity, excess calorie intake, and sugary drinks.
A recent UCSF study revealed that unauthorized immigrant recipients of liver transplants in the US have similar three-year survival rates as US citizens. Despite this, disparities in access to life-saving organs vary widely by state due to policies and provider attitudes.
A new study published in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics found a strong association between obesity and chronic diarrhea, independent of dietary, lifestyle, or medical factors. Obesity was 60% more likely to cause chronic diarrhea compared to normal weight individuals.
A comprehensive study of intestinal gases has been conducted by UNSW Sydney, examining their interactions with the microbiome and associated disorders. The research highlights the importance of gases in maintaining human health and provides a novel tool for analyzing gastrointestinal gases in vivo.
A Nemours study suggests genetic testing can personalize PPI dosing for eosinophilic esophagitis patients. This could improve efficacy and reduce side effects in up to 90% of children, according to researchers.
Researchers discovered how breastfed babies absorb large amounts of calcium, building healthy bones. This mechanism could be key to treating osteoporosis and other bone diseases later in life.
A new study published in Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) tailored for IBS can provide effective, long-term relief despite patients having no further therapy. The research indicates that easily accessible treatment could be provided to a large number of patients with IBS.
A new Emmy-Noether Independent Junior Research Group is exploring the mechanisms behind certain bacteria causing disease in some people but not others. The team aims to develop strategies for preventing symptoms and restoring gut health.
A recent study by Penn Medicine researchers found that automated text message conversations increased the rate of colonoscopies from 62 to 90 percent. The study used text reminders, instructions, and two-way messaging to engage patients before their appointments.
Scientists found that Nqo1 is necessary for liver cancer cells' ability to thrive by activating key pathways. Blocking Nqo1 dramatically suppresses liver cancer cell proliferation.