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Chronic liver inflammation linked to Western diet

A Western diet high in fat and sugar has been shown to cause hepatic inflammation in mice, especially in males, with FXR-deficient mice being more susceptible. The study found that probiotics and bile acid receptor agonists may hold promise for preventing and treating hepatic inflammation and progression into advanced liver diseases.

SourceElsevier·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJul 12, 2017

New discovery at heart of healthy cereals

A new discovery by researchers at the University of Queensland reveals that beta glucans in oats actually reduce circulating bile, leading to lower and slower absorption of fat. This finding could lead to ways of boosting the cholesterol-fighting properties of other cereals like wheat.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalThe FASEB Journal·DateDec 5, 2016

New test identifies high-risk liver patients

A new test has identified a gene signature related to the immune response in liver tissue of patients with high-risk Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC), a rare autoimmune condition. The test allows for early intervention with alternative treatments, increasing chances of success and potentially staving off the need for a liver transplant.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalEBioMedicine·DateDec 2, 2016

Aspirin may help prevent bile duct cancer

Regular aspirin use was linked to a significantly reduced risk of developing bile duct cancer, according to a recent study. The findings suggest that additional research on the potential of aspirin for preventing bile duct cancer is warranted.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateApr 26, 2016

New treatment may help neonatal liver disease associated with parenteral nutrition

A new study suggests that exogenous glucagon-like peptide 2 (GLP-2) treatment can improve the excretion of toxic bile acids and stimulate liver growth in neonatal pigs with parenteral nutrition-associated liver disease. This finding supports a beneficial role for GLP-2 as a novel therapy in PNALD.

SourceAmerican Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (A.S.P.E.N.)·JournalJournal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition·DateJul 28, 2015

UNC doctors analyze treatment options for gallbladder disease

A new review article analyzes five interventional approaches to gallbladder disease, including laparoscopic cholecystectomy, NOTES, and endoscopic transmural drainage. The authors highlight the potential benefits of these minimally invasive procedures, which offer alternatives to traditional surgery and can improve patient outcomes.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina Health Care·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·DateJul 22, 2015

Crucial protective role observed for farnesoid-X receptor in cholestatic liver injury

Researchers observed a crucial protective role for farnesoid-X receptor in cholestatic liver injury, with oral FXR-agonist INT-747 normalizing dysfunctional intestinal FXR-signaling and changing in intestinal permeability, inflammation, and bacterial translocation. The study suggests potential new therapeutic avenues for liver disease.

SourceElsevier Health Sciences·JournalAmerican Journal Of Pathology·DateJan 29, 2015

Deep inside the body, tiny mechanical microscope

A new technology is being used to diagnose illnesses in hard-to-reach areas of the body, but specialists need standardized guidelines to improve accuracy. The study found poor agreement among doctors on the clinical significance of images from the tiny microscope, highlighting the need for improved training and standardization.

SourceNew York- Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center·JournalDigestive Diseases and Sciences·DateAug 14, 2012

GW researchers discover biomarker for advanced bile duct fibrosis and bile duct cancer

Researchers have identified a biomarker for advanced bile duct fibrosis and bile duct cancer caused by the Asian Liver Fluke, allowing for earlier detection and potentially saving lives. The Thai Ministry of Health has implemented testing for this biomarker in endemic regions to identify individuals at risk.

SourceGeorge Washington University Medical Center·JournalPLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases·DateMay 29, 2012

Possible treatment target found for main cause of severe liver disease in kids

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have identified a new molecular signature for biliary atresia, a devastating pediatric liver disease. The study found that some children with the condition exhibit high levels of Th2 immune system activity, providing a potential target for new therapies.

SourceCincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateNov 8, 2011

Cortisol controls recycling of bile acids

Research found that cortisol controls the recycling of bile acids, which are crucial for fat digestion. Without cortisol, mice lose weight and develop gallstones due to reduced bile acid levels. In humans with Addison's disease, cortisol deficiency also disrupts bile acid recycling.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalCell Metabolism·DateJul 7, 2011