Research on the liver in health and disease. Covers liver-disease subtypes, the liver's role in circadian timing, targeted therapies, and cell regulation.
High-dose taurine supplementation aggravates alcohol-induced liver injury by disrupting lipid metabolism and gut dysbiosis, leading to increased hepatocellular injury and inflammatory responses. Low-dose taurine shows a protective profile by reducing hepatic fat accumulation and lowering liver injury markers.
A pre-clinical study has identified a distinct mechanism in a mouse model that may help explain why high-salt diets can trigger fatty liver disease in people with normal body weight. The study suggests that treatments designed for obesity-associated fatty liver disease may not work as effectively in lean patients.
A new study suggests that waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) is a reliable screening tool for pediatric metabolic steatotic liver disease (MASLD), with a threshold of 0.48 performing well across most ethnic groups. Genetic risk scores added little benefit, indicating that a simple tape measure may suffice for initial screening.
A national study found a decline in alcohol use among Gen Z and millennials, but heavy drinking among adults aged 50-64 increased by more than 36% since 2018. The study's findings highlight the need for tailored prevention and treatment strategies.
A new study published in Aging reveals that a mutation affecting the immune and metabolic regulator SHP-1 reshapes liver function during aging, showing improved glucose metabolism can coexist with immune-cell accumulation and liver fibrosis. The findings separate liver inflammation and fibrosis from insulin resistance, obesity and lipi...
Researchers identified a distinct risk profile for young adults with early-onset fatty liver disease, associated with genetic factors and metabolic conditions like type 2 diabetes. The study highlights the need for more accurate liver screening and assessment for individuals at greatest risk.
Researchers found that post-transplant cirrhosis cases often reflected recurrence of the original disease, with lower long-term survival rates. The study highlights the need for lifelong surveillance of fibrosis progression after transplantation to improve outcomes.
Researchers discovered 5 subtypes of liver disease, each with unique risks for heart disease, liver failure, and cancer. The study, published in Nature Communications, used genetic sequencing and clinical data to define distinct subtypes of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.
Researchers found that meal timing programs the liver's daily rhythms and can have serious metabolic and health consequences when out of sync. The liver uses food signals to activate metabolic pathways, which can conflict with the body's natural circadian clock, leading to health issues.
Researchers at Kumamoto University have created a mobile drug delivery platform using polyrotaxanes to simplify targeting the liver. The platform achieves cellular uptake efficiency comparable to conventional systems, while reducing manufacturing complexity.
Cyclin D1, a protein linked to cancer, paradoxically promotes chronic inflammation in non-proliferating senescent cells, which can lead to age-related disease. Research suggests that targeting cyclin D1 may be a promising strategy to reduce inflammation and promote healthier aging.
A new trial will assess whether Semaglutide reduces alcohol consumption in people with alcohol use disorder, obesity, and liver disease. The four-year CURB project aims to explore the potential benefits of the weight loss drug in treating alcohol-related liver disease and obesity.
Researchers at the University of Toledo have developed a rapid blood screening method to detect elevated bile acids, an early but overlooked marker of liver disease. The test, which has been patented, can accurately identify individuals with high bile acids and has the potential to save lives by catching liver disease early.
Researchers at UT Health San Antonio have uncovered how the liver's internal clock coordinates the release of proteins that regulate metabolism. The findings suggest that understanding this internal clock could help guide future research on metabolic disease and inform optimal timing for meals and medication.
Researchers at McMaster University have discovered a naturally occurring hormone, GDF15, that activates a brain-to-liver signaling pathway to suppress liver inflammation and slow the progression of liver scarring. The findings suggest future treatments may be able to complement existing weight-loss therapies.
Hepatic encephalopathy recurrence can be reduced through education on precipitants correction and pharmacotherapy with lactulose and rifaximin. Nutritional support with protein-rich diets improves QOL and reduces episodes.
A case report describes a novel interventional approach for hepatic myelopathy, where paraspinal vein shunt embolization alleviated post-TIPS complications. The study suggests that venous compression may be the primary mechanism underlying HM pathogenesis.
A study by Pompeu Fabra University, ONT, and Vall d'Hebron Hospital reveals that public investment in liver transplants not only improves patient survival but also generates a positive social and economic return. The study estimates that liver transplant patients contribute over 100 million euros to the Spanish economy annually.
A clinical trial showed semaglutide improved liver scarring in patients with advanced fatty liver disease and early-stage cirrhosis. Non-invasive blood tests reflected treatment-related improvements more clearly than liver biopsies, which could reduce reliance on invasive procedures.
A research team identified Crocin II, a natural compound derived from saffron, as a promising therapeutic candidate for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. By reducing ANGPTL8 protein levels, Crocin II alleviated liver fat accumulation and improved lipid profiles.
Researchers identified a key driver of liver fibrosis progression: FSP1+ macrophages that activate PGK1 through lactylation. This self-reinforcing loop amplifies glycolytic signaling, promoting liver fibrosis. A cell penetrating peptide targeting PGK1 lactylation blocks fibrosis progression in preclinical models.
Researchers at Terasaki Institute develop a wireless dual-compartment biochemical monitoring platform for real-time tracking of key biomarkers in perfusion fluid and bile during normothermic machine perfusion. The study shows improved interpretation of post-transplant outcomes with combined bile and perfusate data.
A new study published in Hepatobiliary Communications reveals that standard CT scans can detect stage-specific tissue patterns predicting severe liver complications in chronic hepatitis B-related cirrhosis. Visceral fat and muscle shifts carry different warning meanings based on the patient's disease stage.
Researchers found ulinastatin significantly exerts hepatoprotective effects by inhibiting cytokines, reducing cell death and oxidative stress, and regulating immune function. It also adjusts enzyme activity involved in blood clotting and fibrinolysis system, showing potential as supportive treatment for liver diseases.
The study demonstrated sustained improvements in disease features in mouse models with effects lasting throughout their lifespan. Genespire's approach has the potential to translate into human health as a single-administration treatment for patients with MMA.
Researchers at UCF's College of Medicine have identified molecular changes in the liver that occur when space travelers experience radiation and microgravity, leading to accelerated aging. The study suggests that these changes could be treated with antagomirs, providing a promising future for therapies to combat age-related diseases.
Prof. Orly Lewis is developing a flexible publishing platform for interactive knowledge environments, while Prof. Nir Friedman is creating an epigenomic liquid biopsy for early detection and monitoring of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis.
Researchers redefine steatotic liver disease as a dynamic trajectory, highlighting the need for longitudinal assessment of alcohol intake and metabolic risk factors. The proposed framework integrates objective biomarkers like phosphatidylethanol to improve diagnosis and treatment.
The platform enables simultaneous visualization of multiple hepatic cell populations, including hepatocytes, cholangiocytes, macrophages, endothelial cells and hepatic stellate cells. It also extends multiplex imaging beyond tissue sections to organoids, primary liver cell cultures and advanced liver-on-a-chip platforms.
Researchers found that patients who received tranexamic acid during liver surgery were three times less likely to develop post-hepatectomy liver failure than those who received a placebo. The study suggests targeting the body's fibrinolytic system may support liver regeneration and reduce liver failure risk.
A Michigan State University researcher has challenged a long-held belief about how the liver repairs itself after surgery. By studying mice, the team found that reducing plasminogen levels led to stronger liver regeneration and improved outcomes for patients undergoing liver surgery.
Researchers at UCL and Great Ormond Street Hospital have successfully treated a deadly childhood liver disease using mice with a healthy version of the VPS33B gene. The treatment, which specifically targeted liver cells, showed no harm and improved liver function in mice.
A study found that prebiotic xylo-oligosaccharides reduced harmful metabolites and improved liver health in overweight adults. The composition of the gut microbiota prior to supplementation influenced the benefits observed.
Researchers from Sun Yat-sen University discover a novel mechanism by which tsRNA-Gly promotes hepatocyte regeneration in ACLF. The study reveals that tsRNA-Gly activates GRHL1 and upregulates CCND1, driving liver regeneration.
The Aileen Wee Professorship in Liver Diseases aims to catalyse partnerships between experts and address cancer and healthcare challenges. Prof Aileen Wee, a renowned authority in hepatobiliary pathology, will lead the professorship.
Researchers create siRNA delivery system based on IVSA technology, which targets EGFR-positive tumors with high efficacy and low toxicity. The system enables precise targeting and overcomes drug resistance challenges.
A national cohort study found that living in high-segregation neighborhoods was associated with lower likelihood of live donor liver transplant (LDLT) access. Candidates from high-segregation neighborhoods with larger racial and ethnic minority populations had a lower likelihood of LDLT compared to those from white populations.
Researchers highlight latest developments in pathology, diagnosis, and treatment of MASLD and IPFD, revealing correlations with chronic diseases like liver cancer and pancreatic cancer. Innovative treatments, such as AI-driven approaches and organ-targeted therapies, show promise for precision prevention and therapy.
New research suggests that megamitochondria initially protect hepatocytes during early alcohol exposure, but later contribute to inflammation and liver cancer progression. The study proposes a 'dual-phase' model, highlighting the importance of mitochondrial dynamics in regulating metabolism and innate immunity.
A multi-omics and machine learning framework reveals plasma SBDS as a key protective factor and therapeutic target in PSC, advancing our understanding of the disease's mechanistic pathway.
Researchers discovered that CD4+ immune cells spot and attack the virus in the liver, leading to viral clearance. This finding points to a potential cure for hepatitis B, with therapies designed to activate these immune cells.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.