Articles tagged with Fatty Liver Disease
Researchers have identified novel candidate drug targets for advanced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) using innovative methods. A network of cell-to-cell communication driving scarring was uncovered, and one pair of proteins showed promise as a new treatment.
A study published in Journal of Hepatology found that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) can cause a decrease in oxygen supply to the brain and inflammation to brain tissue. The research identified Monocarboxylate Transporter 1 (MCT1) as a potential therapeutic target for protecting against NAFLD-induced brain dysfunction.
Researchers developed a new epigenetic biomarker, GrimAge version 2, which leverages two DNAm-based estimators of plasma proteins to predict mortality risk. The study found that GrimAge 2 outperforms existing clinical biomarkers in predicting mortality across multiple racial/ethnic groups and associations with age-related conditions.
This study explores the molecular mechanisms of steatosis-to-NASH progression using two mouse models and identifies genes, non-coding RNAs, proteins, and plasma metabolites involved. GDF3 is found to be up-regulated in NASH mice and serves as a potential non-invasive diagnostic biomarker for NASH patients.
A randomized controlled trial found that a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet helped patients with type 2 diabetes achieve better weight loss and glucose control over a 6-month intervention compared to a high-carb, low-fat diet. However, changes were not sustained 3 months after the intervention.
Researchers found non-heavy alcohol use associated with liver fibrosis and at-risk nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in a large cohort of participants. The study highlights the importance of reducing alcohol intake and adherence to US Dietary Guidelines for liver health.
A Cedars-Sinai study found that even subtle forms of liver disease directly impact heart health, with elevated FIB-4 scores associated with abnormalities in heart function and vascular dimension. Cardiac MRI scans revealed that nearly 86% of patients had at least one heart abnormality.
Researchers found that dietary saturated/trans fats, but not cholesterol, can trigger hepatic angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis in mice, leading to the promotion of hepatic tumors. This process is driven by the JNK-HIF1α-VEGF-C axis.
Researchers found that P2-HNF4α expression is associated with p-STAT3 and c-Myc expression in NAFLD patients, suggesting potential biomarkers for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk. Additionally, p-STAT3 expression was linked to hypertension, while c-Myc expression was associated with advanced fibrosis.
A new AI-powered blood test, DELFI, has been developed to detect liver cancer with high accuracy. The test detected over 80% of liver cancers in a study of 724 individuals, with an overall sensitivity of 88% and specificity of 98%.
Researchers found that a genetic mutation associated with liver disease confers different levels of risk depending on a patient's diabetic status. In diabetic patients, the mutation predisposes them to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, but in nondiabetic patients, it protects against liver disease.
A Rutgers study of 86,964 adults with obesity and NAFLD found that bariatric surgery reduced the risk of major cardiovascular events by 49% compared to nonsurgical care. This is significant because heart disease is a leading cause of death in the US, and NAFLD can lead to liver damage and inflammation.
Researchers found that first-degree relatives of patients with advanced fibrosis are at a 15% risk of developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Early screening for advanced fibrosis among siblings and offspring of patients can help prevent the progression to cirrhosis or liver failure.
Scientists at deCODE genetics have discovered rare, protective loss-of-function variants that point to potential drug targets for NAFLD. The study identified biomarkers of disease and disease progression, which can help develop non-invasive diagnostic tools.
A study found that leptin stimulates liver fat export and lowers liver fat content in healthy men, suggesting a new approach for treating fatty liver disease. The findings imply that the brain plays a role in liver fat metabolism via the autonomic nervous system, opening up potential new treatment options.
Researchers found that liver cells cannot undergo necroptosis, a form of cell death previously thought to drive liver diseases. This revelation points to a new therapeutic intervention strategy and resolves crucial unanswered questions in the field.
Researchers found that hepatocyte adenosine kinase promotes excessive fat deposition and liver inflammation, suggesting a key role in the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Dietary changes may help prevent or reduce NAFLD severity by inhibiting ADK activity.
A preclinical study suggests that spermidine can help alleviate the pathological features of NASH, a condition associated with cardiac and kidney disease. The compound improves mitochondrial function, reduces inflammation, and prevents scar tissue formation.
A new Chinese Medical Journal review article elucidates the potential contributors to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) progression, highlighting the role of bile acid and sphingolipid biology. Researchers summarize current understanding of NAFLD, its progression, and potential therapeutic strategies.
A lab study found that high cholesterol intake worsens fatty liver disease progression by driving inflammation and scarring. The researchers also discovered long-lasting dysfunction in immune cells responsible for fighting liver damage. Moderation is key to maintaining a healthy diet, according to the study's findings.
A review article suggests that retinol-binding protein-4 (RBP4) may be a potential target for clinical intervention in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The study highlights the importance of RBP4 in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, including its role in inducing hepatic de novo lipogenesis and impairing fatty acid oxidation.
Researchers from Keck School of Medicine found a strong association between PFOS exposure and liver cancer risk, with the strongest link seen in the top 10% of PFOS exposure. The study suggests that PFOS may disrupt normal liver function, leading to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and increased risk of liver cancer.
Researchers at Duke-NUS Medical School found that high levels of homocysteine in the liver correlate with severity of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Supplementing vitamin B12 and folic acid reversed inflammation and fibrosis in preclinical models.
Researchers have developed a novel approach to engineering live bacterial therapeutics by using native microbes that can survive in the gut. This method overcomes previous limitations of introducing engineered bacteria into the gut, demonstrating potential for long-term therapy and reversal of disease pathologies in mouse models.
Individualized, comprehensive treatment approaches and risk stratification of patients are crucial for effective treatment of MAFLD. Lifestyle modifications and pharmaceutical therapeutics combining to treat the condition.
A recent study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism has found that people with sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy sleep behaviors are at risk for developing fatty liver disease. Moderate improvement in sleep quality was related to a 29% reduction in the risk for fatty liver disease.
Researchers found that lactating mothers expose their pups to triclosan, leading to early signs of liver damage that can progress to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Exposure to triclosan in early life may lay the groundwork for future development of fatty liver disease.
A pooled data analysis of 11 international studies found that NAFLD is associated with a 50% heightened risk of developing heart failure. The severity of NAFLD also increases the risk, especially with extensive liver fibrosis.
NAFLD affects over 25% of the US population, with 7-20% in lean body build. Researchers compiled clinical practice update to diagnose and manage NAFLD among lean persons, providing guidance for clinicians.
Research found that acidic activated charcoal from Shinshu Ina's specialty Akamatsu tree suppresses weight gain due to a high-fat diet by increasing bile acid, cholesterol, triglyceride, and fatty acid excretion. No damage to the gastrointestinal mucosa or lungs was observed.
A new study published in Neurology found that people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are at a higher risk of developing dementia. The study, which analyzed 30 years of Swedish patient registry records, also found that those with liver disease and cardiovascular conditions had an even greater risk.
Researchers from Tianjin Medical University General Hospital review sarcopenic obesity's impact on liver disease, including nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and cirrhosis. The study aims to clarify the pathogenesis of sarcopenic obesity and identify potential therapeutic avenues.
A comprehensive study found that prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals is associated with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in children. The researchers measured 45 chemicals in pregnant women and found elevated levels of biomarkers indicating risk for liver disease in children who were more highly exposed.
A new method using ethyl glucuronide in hair and urine has improved the diagnosis of fatty liver disease, revealing a high rate of harmful alcohol consumption in patients with presumed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The study found that about 30% of patients were at risk of alcohol-related liver damage.
Researchers found multiple gene variants contributing to pediatric NAFLD risk and disease severity, including novel SNPs associated with liver fibrosis. These genetic associations may guide future therapeutics for pediatric NAFLD, a chronic childhood disease linked to increased cardiovascular risk and mortality.
A MedUni Vienna study team has identified a specific subtype of macrophages as a protective function against fibrosis in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. TREM2-positive macrophages have been shown to prevent fat accumulation, inflammatory processes and progression to liver fibrosis.
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 found that growth hormone reduces liver fat and inflammation in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, improving liver function tests and markers of inflammation. The study showed significant improvements in liver health after administering growth hormone to 41 participants for 6 months.
Scientists at CNIC discovered a complex network between liver tissue connections that allows the liver to regulate body temperature. The secretion of IL-12 by liver-infiltrating macrophages blocks FGF21 production, reducing heat generation by brown fat in mice.
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.
Research suggests that high fructose consumption is associated with a higher chance of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), especially among Mexican Americans and non-Hispanic Blacks. The study analyzed data from over 3,200 participants and found that those consuming the highest amount of fructose were at greatest risk.
Researchers developed a machine learning model to predict NAFLD development based on gut microbiome data, showing 90% of subjects who developed the disease had subtle differences in their samples. The model combines easily measurable information from blood and microbiome data with high accuracy.
The primary causes of liver cancer are changing globally, with advances in hepatitis B vaccinations and antiviral therapies reducing HBV-associated liver cancer. However, alcohol consumption and obesity are rising, leading to increased liver cancer deaths. The incidence of NASH is projected to increase further due to rising obesity rates.
A new review analyzes the efficacy of current non-invasive methods for assessing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and associated conditions. Blood-based biomarker tests and imaging methods are explored, with some showing promise in early diagnosis and staging liver disorders.
Researchers from NTU and NUS found a link between NAFLD and blood vessel damage, leading to increased risks of cardiovascular diseases. High levels of chemokines attract immune cells into blood vessels, causing inflammation and damage.
Researchers discovered that lean individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases compared to those who are overweight or obese. Despite lower rates of other health conditions, lean patients with NAFLD exhibited increased prevalence of cardiovascular disease.
A new review highlights the risks of fatty liver disease caused by metabolic dysfunction, characterized by fat accumulation in liver cells and oxidative stress. The progression of the disease can lead to inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis with a high risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.
A new study found that lean individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) have a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease compared to those who are overweight or obese. Despite having lower risks for other metabolic and cardiovascular conditions, lean patients with NAFLD were more likely to develop cardiovascular disease.
A study led by the University of Barcelona found that 69% of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease perceive stigmatization in their daily lives, affecting stereotypes, discrimination, shame, and social isolation. The perceived stigma is associated with impaired quality of life and can lead to human and social rights issues.
Researchers investigate how enzymes regulate metabolism, weight gain, and liver disease, revealing diet's significant role in obesity and altered lipid profiles. The study also shows that age affects metabolic processes, leading to weight gain, increased fat storage, and unhealthy liver changes.
A new study published in Scientific Reports reveals that regular high-intensity interval training exercise can significantly decrease fasting glucose levels and waist circumference, while improving oxygen consumption rates in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Exercise also modifies amino acid metabolism in adipose tissue...
A new study systematically reviews data on PFAS exposure and liver damage, linking three commonly detected PFAS to elevated levels of a liver enzyme, ALT. The research suggests a potential link between PFAS and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a growing public health crisis affecting 25% of adults worldwide.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common condition that can lead to chronic liver damage and cardiovascular disease. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, as lifestyle changes can help prevent or reverse the condition.
A modified version of the hormone kisspeptin has been shown to protect against the development of fat in the liver and reduce inflammation and fibrosis in a mouse model. This could potentially favorably impact the health and lives of millions of patients around the globe.
A breakthrough discovery has identified a novel approach to tackle metabolic diseases by inhibiting a liver enzyme that regulates appetite and energy expenditure. The treatment, which stabilizes key proteins in the blood, resulted in significant weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity in obese mice.
A preclinical study found that mice fed a high-fat diet and given the mineral supplement Aquamin did not develop liver cancer, unlike those without the supplement. The researchers observed a dramatic reduction in late-stage consequences of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in animals receiving the supplement.
Even normal weight individuals are susceptible to severe fatty liver disease due to various risk factors including diet, genetics, and ethnicity. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and cirrhosis if left undiagnosed or untreated.
A retrospective study found that cases of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease increased since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Late-night meals and higher alcohol intake were identified as independent predictors of developing MAFLD, especially among working-age individuals.
Researchers identified three NAFLD subtypes with unique lipidomic profiles and varying cardiovascular disease risk. Subtype A shows a lower CVD risk profile, differing from other subtypes, which may explain variation in hepatic versus cardiovascular outcomes.
Researchers found that female mice produce more of the FPR2 protein, which helps prevent NAFLD, and that estrogen mediates its production. This discovery highlights the need for sex-balanced animal experiments and could lead to novel treatments and gender-based therapies for NASH