Liver

A multi-omics and machine learning framework identifies plasma SBDS as a causal biomarker and therapeutic target in primary sclerosing cholangitis

The liver’s immune cells might be the key to curing hepatitis B

UH professor urges better prevention and care of liver disease to reduce burden

Chronic liver disease in the US costs $41.57 billion, with prescription medication expenditures accounting for nearly half of all-cause healthcare expenditures. Poor adherence to antiviral medications is a key factor in preventing disease progression and treatment, with high out-of-pocket costs increasing non-adherence risk.

Chinese Medical Journal article review highlights a growing global consensus on acute-on-chronic liver failure

Researchers agree on core elements of ACLF development, including chronic liver disease triggers, acute insult, and extrahepatic organ failure. A new three-stage mouse model supports testing of potential therapies, highlighting impaired liver regeneration as a key driver of disease progression.

Association of changes in portal insulin with immunometabolism during and after hepatitis C virus infection

Research reveals reduced portal insulin in HCV patients, correlating with proinflammatory cytokines and altered immune responses. This finding indicates a potential link between the immune system and insulin dynamics in HCV infection, with implications for managing dysglycemia.

Scientists explore whether plastic particles could be linked to significant rises in liver disease

Researchers investigate whether micro- and nanoplastics contribute to liver disease through oxidative stress, fibrogenesis, and inflammation. They emphasize the need for increased research into plastic-induced liver injury and its potential impact on human health.

How immune cell networks drive liver disease

A study published in Nature Communications reveals how immune cell networks contribute to liver damage and fibrosis. The research team identified a key interaction between dendritic cells and γδ T cells, triggering pro-inflammatory signals that amplify inflammation.

Heavy drinking, alcohol use disorder, and obesity

A nationally representative study found nearly 1 in 10 U.S. adults with heavy drinking and obesity conditions, highlighting the need for preventive efforts in younger and middle-aged adults without insurance or Medicaid coverage to curb rising rates of alcohol-associated liver disease deaths.

How the internal liver clock orchestrates daily fat secretion

A Salk Institute study identifies Fibroblast Growth Factor 1 (FGF1) as the molecular signal that tells the liver when to release fat into the bloodstream, following a precise rhythm timed to the body's internal clock.

Exosomal miR-122-3p identified as key driver of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

A study identified exosomal microRNA-122-3p as a key driver of MASLD pathogenesis. Elevated miR-122-3p levels induced triglyceride accumulation and reactive oxygen species production in liver cells.

In mice, gene editing repairs a mutation that causes rare liver disorder

Scientists corrected a genetic disease of the liver in mouse models and human patient cells using gene editing, building a foundation for a potential new therapy for Zellweger spectrum disorder. The breakthrough restored function of the liver and peroxisomes, reducing toxic buildup.

Expanding access to palliative care for patients with advanced liver disease

A new multicenter trial demonstrates that hepatologists trained in palliative care can deliver the same quality-of-life benefits as a palliative care specialist. Quality of life improved significantly in both groups, with symptom burden and short-term mortality comparable between groups.

Massive hepatic necrosis drives acute liver failure: Mechanisms, challenges and clinical potential

Acute liver failure is driven by massive hepatic necrosis, a catastrophic form of liver injury characterized by extensive hepatocyte loss. Liver progenitor cells play a key role in regeneration and functional compensation, enabling patients to survive despite severe liver damage.

Understanding pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis for improved clinical management

Researchers compare viral and MASLD cirrhosis pathogenic mechanisms, identifying shared pathways and diagnostic differences. The study aims to establish a framework for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of MASLD cirrhosis.

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) in critically ill patients with cirrhosis

A new study highlights an extremely high short-term mortality rate for mechanically ventilated patients with cirrhosis, which remains unchanged despite recent ICU improvements. The research identifies key prognostic factors and sheds light on the need for early multidisciplinary discussions about care goals.

Occasional heavy drinking may triple the risk of liver damage

A new study finds that people with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease face a significantly higher risk of liver fibrosis if they engage in episodic heavy drinking. Episodic heavy drinking is defined as four or more drinks for women and five or more drinks for men, at least once a month.

Molecular test doubles detection of bile duct cancer

The BiliSeq test detected approximately 82% of bile duct cancers, compared to 44% with pathology alone, and increased cancer detection to nearly 90% when combined with pathology. This improved accuracy enables physicians to provide more personalized medicine and treatment options for patients.

Multi-task deep learning identifies four MASLD subtypes for precision cardiovascular– liver–kidney–metabolic management

The study developed a novel multi-task deep LASSO algorithm that identified six core clinical indicators, establishing four stable MASLD subtypes with distinct characteristics. The classification system enables targeted interventions, prioritizing fibrosis screening and aggressive cardiorenal protection for specific subgroups.

New lipid nanoparticle design improves precision of mRNA vaccine delivery

Researchers redesigned a key component of lipid nanoparticles to steer particles toward lymph nodes, reducing off-target delivery. This advancement could make mRNA vaccines more efficient, potentially achieving strong immune protection at lower doses.

Low testosterone, high fructose: A recipe for liver disaster

A study published in American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism found that low testosterone and high fructose intake synergistically contribute to liver damage in mice. The researchers discovered that changes in gut microbiota led to increased levels of pyruvate, which promotes fat accumulation in the liver.

p62 links protein aggregates to protection in alcohol-associated liver disease

This study reveals that p62-dependent protein aggregates protect liver cells against severe alcohol damage, providing a new perspective on toxic protein accumulation. The researchers found that the formation of these aggregates is not harmful but rather an adaptive response to chronic alcohol stress.

Heart and metabolic risk factors more strongly linked to liver fibrosis in women than men, study finds

Women with cardiometabolic risk factors such as type 2 diabetes and high waist circumference face a higher risk of liver fibrosis, with rates increasing 11-fold and 2.8-fold compared to men. The study highlights the importance of managing these risk factors for liver health beyond heart disease prevention.

Cannabis compounds show promise in fighting fatty liver disease

Researchers discovered that CBD and CBG can significantly reduce liver fat and improve metabolic health by creating a backup energy reserve and restoring cellular cleaning crews. These compounds also showed promising effects on treating metabolic diseases, including reducing body fat mass and improving insulin sensitivity.

MetALD: Redefining the overlap of metabolic and alcohol-related liver injury

A new category of liver disease, MetALD, combines metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-related liver injury, representing a spectrum between metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and alcohol-associated liver disease. MetALD management requires simultaneous control of metabolic risk factors and alcohol use.

Protein regulator of sugars and fats may work with an unexpected partner — itself

Researchers characterized the structure and function of a protein that regulates sugar and fat levels, finding it can work with an unexpected partner - itself. This partnership may drive the expression of different genes than its usual partner, offering new therapeutic targets for diseases like liver cancer and diabetes.

Injectable “satellite livers” could offer an alternative to liver transplantation

Engineered tissue grafts can take on the liver's function and help patients with liver failure. The injected cells remain viable in the body for at least two months, generating enzymes and proteins like normal hepatocytes.

Biomarkers indicating higher liver cancer risk in chronic hepatitis B patients identified

Researchers found that quantifiable HBV RNA levels are associated with a significantly higher risk of HCC, independent of traditional risk factors. Chronic hepatitis B patients with concurrent liver dysfunction should be intensified under surveillance for HCC.

Some infant formula fats may contribute to early liver disease, study finds

A recent study led by Virginia Tech researchers found that certain medium-chain fats in infant formulas can strain the developing liver and lead to early signs of steatotic liver disease. Newborn pigs fed with these formulas accumulated liver fat faster than those fed long-chain fats, despite receiving the same calories and protein.

New blood test score detects hidden alcohol-related liver disease

A new blood test score, MetALD-ALD Prediction Index (MAPI), has been developed to identify when fatty liver disease is driven by excessive alcohol use. The tool uses five standard lab values and can estimate whether a person with fatty liver disease may have alcohol-related liver injury.

Human liver tissue cell architecture reconstructed in 3D at a cellular level

Researchers create detailed 3D reconstructions of human liver tissue, comparing healthy and cirrhotic livers, showing dysregulation of metabolite transport, reduced specialized cells, and disruption of vascular networks. The study highlights the importance of understanding organ structure for bioprinting artificial organs.

VJLabs @ Terasaki Institute awarded NIH R21 grant to advance xenotransplantation research using organ-on-a-chip technology

Researchers are developing an organ-on-a-chip platform to study immune rejection in pig-to-human liver transplantation, addressing a major hurdle in xenotransplantation. The project aims to generate data supporting future preclinical studies and bring xenotransplantation closer to clinical use.

C-reactive protein is closely related to cardiac repolarization in patients with coronary artery disease in contrast to patients with cirrhosis

A new study reveals that C-reactive protein is associated with ventricular arrhythmias in stable coronary disease, while its relationship with heart rhythms is different in patients with cirrhosis. In cirrhosis, only high white blood cell count shows a trend for linking to unstable rhythms.

Primary biliary cholangitis–associated osteoporosis: contemporary review of pathogenesis and management

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is associated with a high incidence of osteoporosis, characterized by reduced bone mass and increased fracture risk. The pathogenesis involves immune dysregulation, cholestasis, liver damage, and metabolic alterations, highlighting the need for PBC-specific management strategies.

Expert consensus on the diagnosis and management of inherited hyperbilirubinemia (2025)

The 2025 Expert Consensus provides a framework for diagnosing and managing inherited hyperbilirubinemia, with a focus on genetic testing and tailored management strategies. The consensus promotes the use of genetic analysis to confirm diagnoses and aid in prognostication and family counseling.

MIT research shows new tissue models could help researchers develop drugs for liver disease

The MIT research team has designed a new type of tissue model that accurately replicates the physiology of the liver, including blood vessels and immune cells. The model was used to study metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and showed promising results in identifying potential treatments.

A miniature human liver to transform toxicology testing of food contaminants

Researchers developed a 3D miniature human liver model to improve toxicology studies of chemicals. The mini-liver demonstrates physiological and metabolic capabilities, enabling the detailed analysis of contaminant-induced effects on cells.

Combined aerobic-resistance exercise: Dual efficacy and efficiency for hepatic steatosis

Researchers have found a nonlinear dose-response relationship between exercise and hepatic steatosis, indicating that a combination of aerobic and resistance exercises can produce clinically meaningful improvements. The study suggests that exercising above 130 MET-min/week can lead to significant reductions in hepatic steatosis.

Current and emerging issues in familial hypobetalipoproteinemia-related steatotic liver diseases

FHBL is characterized by low plasma levels of total cholesterol, LDL-C, and APOB, and its pathogenesis involves lipid overload, ER stress, oxidative damage, and autophagic dysfunction. Current challenges include underdiagnosis, sparse epidemiological data, and unclear disease progression mechanisms.

Expert consensus on clinical applications of fecal microbiota transplantation for chronic liver disease (2025 edition)

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) holds promise in treating chronic liver diseases by restoring gut-liver axis balance. The consensus recommends FMT for various etiologies, excluding drug-induced liver injury, with strict donor selection and management guidelines to ensure safety.

First-in-human drug trial lowers high blood fats

Scientists developed a compound that targets Liver X Receptor specifically in liver and gut to lower triglycerides. In first-in-human clinical trial, participants showed significant drops in triglycerides and remnant cholesterol after taking the drug.

Altered microbiome: Oral bacteria play a role in chronic liver disease

Researchers found identical bacterial strains in the mouth and gut of patients with advanced chronic liver disease, suggesting oral bacteria colonize the gut. These bacteria can damage the intestinal barrier, compromising gut health.

ARPA-H project awarded at UC San Diego aims to end liver transplant shortage with 3D bioprinting

A team at UC San Diego is developing functional, patient-specific livers using 3D bioprinting and stem cell technology. The goal is to create 'made-to-order' livers grown from a patient's own cells, offering a safe alternative to transplantation that eliminates the need for donor organs.

Tissue repair slows in old age. These proteins speed it back up

Researchers discovered genes that regulate fibroblast growth, which builds the scaffolding between cells. Adjusting these factors reversed age-related changes and improved health outcomes in mice. The study offers new opportunities to understand and reverse aging-related diseases.

Carnegie Mellon team awarded ARPA-H contract to develop 3D bioprinted liver for transplant

A Carnegie Mellon-led team has secured a $28.5 million award from ARPA-H to develop a functional, 3D bioprinted liver for patients with acute liver failure. The project aims to provide a temporary liver that supports regeneration of a patient's own liver, reducing the need for full organ transplants.

‘Forever chemicals’ may increase liver disease risk in adolescents by as much as 3-fold

A new study found that higher levels of PFAS in the blood are linked to an increased risk of early onset of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in adolescents. MASLD affects up to 40% of children with obesity and increases long-term risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and liver cancer.

Nicotinic acid shields liver from reperfusion injury

Researchers discovered that nicotinic acid can dramatically reduce liver damage caused by ischemia-reperfusion injury. The compound targets damaged mitochondria, reducing markers of liver injury, suppressing inflammation, and promoting mitophagy and mitochondrial biogenesis.

Correlation between cancer cachexia and immune-related adverse events in HCC

Research finds cancer cachexia-related immune cells impair T-cell negative selection, leading to irAEs. This study establishes a critical mechanism connecting cancer cachexia and irAEs, opening new avenues for targeted interventions.

Children’s Hospital Colorado performs region’s first pediatric heart and liver dual organ transplant

Gracie Greenlaw, an 11-year-old patient with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, undergoes the world's first pediatric heart and liver dual organ transplant at Children's Hospital Colorado. The groundbreaking procedure, performed by Dr. Megan Adams' team, aims to improve her quality of life by addressing long-term complications from her h...

Blocking a key inflammatory pathway improves liver structure and vascular function in cirrhosis, study finds

Researchers have identified an effective strategy to reduce structural liver damage and improve hepatic vascular function in cirrhosis. Blocking the PAF-R receptor can help rebalance immune and inflammatory responses within the liver.

Patient-specific human liver model to understand disease mechanisms

Researchers at MPI-CBG have created a patient-specific human liver model consisting of three liver cell types, capturing key aspects of human liver physiology in a dish. The novel model provides a platform to study liver diseases, develop new treatments, and advance personalized medicine.

New study suggests a way to rejuvenate the immune system

Researchers from MIT and Broad Institute develop temporary 'factory' in the liver to generate T-cell-stimulating signals, boosting immune response to vaccination and cancer immunotherapy treatments. Aged mice showed significant increases in T cell population size and function after treatment.

Ursodeoxycholic acid shows unexpected gut FXR agonism in liver FXR-deficient mice

Researchers found UDCA activates ileal FXR signaling, not antagonism, and has sex-specific effects on BA metabolism. In male mice, UDCA reduces steatosis, liver injury markers, and fibrosis, while in females, it increases T-MCAs, potent FXR antagonists.

'Zombie' cells spark inflammation in severe fatty liver disease, Mayo Clinic researchers find

Researchers found that mitochondrial RNA can leak into healthy tissue, triggering inflammation and scarring. Inhibiting certain proteins enables mitochondrial RNA to escape, leading to less inflammation and healthier liver tissue.

From mechanisms to targeted therapy: Deubiquitinases shed light on liver diseases

This review systematically outlines deubiquitinases' roles in various liver diseases, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, liver fibrosis, viral hepatitis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. It highlights their potential as therapeutic targets and emerging technologies for targeting DUBs.

Although public overwhelmingly supports hepatitis B vaccine for a newborn, partisan differences exist

A national survey of adults found that three-quarters support vaccinating newborns against hepatitis B, but Republicans are less likely to recommend the vaccine. The survey also found that most respondents believe the vaccine protects against liver disease, and there is little evidence justifying delaying vaccination.

Fibulin-5: A potential marker for liver fibrosis detection

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University discovered that Fibulin-5 levels increase as liver fibrosis advances, enabling earlier diagnosis and treatment. This finding holds promise for developing a more accurate method to detect liver damage in chronic hepatitis C patients.

Global initiative for glycolipid metabolic health

A global initiative has been launched to tackle glycolipid metabolic disorders, which are prevalent and linked to various chronic diseases. The initiative aims to improve public health education and develop an integrated screening-diagnosis-treatment-management system to prevent disease progression.

Study links America’s favorite cooking oil to obesity

A study conducted at the University of California, Riverside, has uncovered a link between soybean oil consumption and obesity in mice. The research found that a genetically engineered group of mice on a high-fat diet rich in soybean oil did not gain weight, suggesting that the liver protein HNF4α plays a crucial role in fat metabolism.

New study reveals that differences between parent and child views best assess quality of life after pediatric liver transplant

A new electronic application highlights discrepancies between parents and children's views on the child's well-being, providing powerful insight into how children truly cope. This approach has broad implications beyond transplant medicine and may reshape patient-reported outcomes for pediatric chronic illnesses.

How growth hormone excess accelerates liver aging via glycation stress

Researchers found that excess growth hormone disrupts liver metabolism, leading to molecular and cellular patterns similar to those in naturally aged livers. Reducing glycation stress can reverse these negative effects, improving liver health and physical function.