Research on the liver in health and disease. Covers liver-disease subtypes, the liver's role in circadian timing, targeted therapies, and cell regulation.
Scientists have discovered a way to increase NAD+ levels in the kidney and liver by blocking an enzyme, ACMSD, which limits its production. This breakthrough has shown promise for treating liver and kidney diseases, with enhanced mitochondrial function and improved health outcomes.
Scientists have created a comprehensive map of individual human liver cells, identifying 20 distinct cell populations and new aspects of the liver's immunobiology. The study, published in Nature Communications, reveals new insights into the liver's cellular landscape and its impact on disease.
A recent study found that liver transplant survival rates have improved significantly among older adults, with a notable increase in recipients aged 65-69 and those aged 80 or over. The one-year acute rejection rate decreased by 30%, and the risk of death was 57% lower compared to earlier years.
Advanced liver disease patients who accept liver transplants from older donors (over 70 years old) have a reduced risk of death, regardless of their Model for End-stage Liver Disease score. The study found nearly a twofold decrease in mortality beyond 90 days with acceptance of an older donor.
Research shows ALD patients have worse outcomes in intensive care unit (ICU) with lower survival rates and higher risk of emergency hospital admissions. The study emphasizes the need for better community services for alcohol addiction and management of long-term conditions.
A new study reveals that protein kinase C epsilon (PKCε) is acting from fat tissue to worsen disease, pointing to a new function in this dynamic organ. Fat tissue reveals striking differences in cell shape and size in the presence and absence of PKCε.
A new study found that clay supplements can improve the immune response of dairy cows to aflatoxin exposure, leading to reduced inflammation and increased liver functionality. Cows fed higher doses of clay produced more milk with lower levels of aflatoxin M1.
Researchers discovered that mast cells release histamine from the gut, triggering the formation of oleoylethanolamide, which stimulates ketogenesis and supports brain and muscle function during prolonged fasts or intense exercise. This finding challenges the long-held assumption that mast cells are solely responsible for allergic respo...
University of Houston biologist Michihisa Umetani has discovered a protein partnership that protects blood vessels from danger. His work aims to target the Liver X Receptor (LXR) for new medicines to prevent atherosclerosis, offering a potential solution to severe side effects associated with current treatments.
Scientists have performed prenatal gene editing in laboratory animals to prevent a lethal metabolic disorder, offering the potential to treat human congenital diseases before birth. Using CRISPR-Cas9 and base editor 3, researchers reduced cholesterol levels and improved liver function in mice with genetic mutations.
Scientists have performed prenatal gene editing to prevent a lethal metabolic disorder in laboratory animals, offering the potential to treat human congenital diseases before birth. Using CRISPR-Cas9 and base editor 3, researchers reduced cholesterol levels and improved liver function in mice treated in utero.
Researchers at ETH Zurich successfully heal genetic disease phenylketonuria in mice using a modified CRISPR/Cas9 system. The technique achieved a high correction rate of up to 60% and restored normal levels of phenylalanine, eliminating the disorder's symptoms.
In a groundbreaking operation, doctors at the University of Witwatersrand performed the world's first intentional liver transplant from an HIV-positive mother to her HIV-negative child. The successful transplant has raised hopes for using this method to save additional lives. However, the team is now unsure of the child's HIV status.
A new preclinical study shows that PET imaging with the 18F-FAC radiotracer can image T cells in the liver, potentially reducing biopsies and improving treatment. The approach could lead to personalized treatment of patients with immune-related liver disease.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine used an endoscopic procedure to deliver therapeutic genes to the liver via the common bile duct, demonstrating a safe and effective method for gene therapy. The technique, called ERCP, was found to be less invasive than traditional injection methods, with no biliary or liver injury observed.
Researchers found that obese patients who underwent a combined liver transplant and weight-loss surgery experienced significant weight loss maintenance and reduced metabolic complications. The study suggests that this dual approach is safe and effective over the long term for treating obesity-related liver disease.
A new six-year single-center study found a web-based program to be an effective approach to manage lifestyle changes in patients with NAFLD, comparable to group-based interventions. The web program reduced weight loss and improved liver health, suggesting counseling as a key therapeutic option until drugs are approved.
A new study found that a web-based intervention is an effective approach to manage lifestyle changes in patients with NAFLD, reducing weight, and improving dietary intake. The web-based program was compared to group counseling and showed similar effectiveness after two years.
Patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) who consume moderate amounts of alcohol have a 36% decreased risk of early death, while heavy drinking increases the risk by 45%. The study suggests that moderate drinking may be beneficial for these patients.
Alcohol consumption is common among patients with liver disease, associated with poor outcomes. The authors advocate for expanded treatment of alcohol use disorder in everyday clinical practice, including patients with advanced liver disease.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have discovered how damaged liver cells repair themselves by reprogramming into an early stage of postnatal organ development. The findings reveal that injured liver cells undergo partial reprogramming, which is regulated by a specific RNA-binding protein called ESRP2.
A new study reveals that CD26/DPP-4 is a key player in the regeneration of acute liver wounds and may serve as a valuable biomarker for detecting hepatic disease. The molecule's enzymatic activity was shown to increase with reduced liver immune cell population, suggesting its potential use in non-invasive diagnosis.
Research found that silver nanoparticles and soluble silver cause inflammation in zebrafish gills, with nanoparticles leading to longer-term effects. After exposure, fish recovered from the metal, but continued to exhibit altered gene expression levels.
Children awaiting livers from deceased donors face significant disadvantages due to the scoring system, which significantly underestimates their risk of death compared to adults. The Pediatric End-stage Liver Disease (PELD) score is incompatible with the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score used for adults.
Two recent studies reveal that mitochondrial proteins are broken down more quickly in fatty liver cells, reducing their activity. Meanwhile, liver cells with fatty liver disease show signs of overworking, using triglycerides instead of glucose to make energy and increasing reactive oxygen byproducts, which can damage proteins.
Researchers identified caspase-2 as a critical driver of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a chronic and aggressive liver condition. The study found that an inhibitor of caspase-2 could provide an effective way to treat or prevent NASH, possibly even reversing early symptoms.
A new test predicts advanced fibrosis in NAFLD patients, accurately identifying 92% of those at risk. The tool uses the PRO-C3 biological marker and combines it with clinical information for highly accurate results.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center genetically deleted Ago2 from the livers of mice, stabilizing energy metabolism and preventing obesity and diabetes. The study provides a solid basis for further research into novel therapeutic approaches to treat chronic metabolic disorders.
Research by University of Manchester scientists found that genes regulating lungs and liver function change with the day-night cycle, impacting steroid side effects. Removing a specific molecule, Reverbα, altered gene expression and showed protective effects against fatty liver buildup.
Fatty liver disease is a complex condition that can lead to severe complications like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. A new review article proposes the use of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to enable specific risk prognosis and individualized treatment.
A new model developed by scientists at the University of Bristol aims to help farmers tackle multi-million losses due to liver fluke infestations. The model explicitly links liver fluke prevalence with key environmental drivers like soil moisture, enabling farmers to make informed decisions on grazing and treatment.
A study published in Royal Society Open Science found that Mongrel Mob members had low knowledge of viral hepatitis, leading to risky infection behaviors. The research also identified concerning liver health issues, including high rates of inflammation and damage.
Scientists discover TREM-1 amplifies inflammation, leading to liver scarring and cirrhosis. Targeting this receptor may prevent fibrosis and cancer development.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that restricting high-sucrose diet to active times reduced fat levels in rats. The research team limited the diet to nighttime, resulting in lower blood and liver fat compared to an unrestricted diet.
Researchers have successfully created 3D human liver tissue from human stem cells and implanted it into mice with liver disease, demonstrating improved liver function. The study showcases a promising approach to developing human liver tissue implants that could reduce the need for animal testing.
Researchers found that trehalose improves insulin sensitivity in mice by activating a gene called Aloxe3, which boosts calorie burning and reduces fat accumulation. Trehalose also has beneficial effects on the liver's metabolism, similar to fasting.
Researchers have discovered a potential alternative to liver transplant for patients with acute liver failure, which is triggered by liver injury and can be life-threatening. A new therapy using anti-cancer drugs has been shown to regenerate the liver in mouse models, preventing death from liver injury.
A new blood test can quickly detect early signs of liver disease in dogs, enabling prompt treatment and reducing the need for invasive biopsies. The test is based on insights from human patients and has been successfully tested on 250 dogs.
Research suggests ketogenic diets may cause an increased risk of Type 2 diabetes in the early stage of the diet, particularly through insulin resistance. The study found that fatty acids from a ketogenic diet can have signaling roles in the brain.
Advanced inflamed vascular plaques associated with progressive liver disease, supporting systemic effects of chronic unresolved inflammation. Researchers test oral delivery of omega-3 fatty acids to treat inflammation without unwanted side effects.
Researchers found that naked mole-rat breeders have changed aging rates, living longer than non-breeders due to higher resistance to muscle loss during aging. The study suggests that genetic mechanisms underlying social suppression of sexual maturation may contribute to their exceptional lifespan.
A new study found that injectable trace minerals alleviate inflammation and oxidative stress in lactating Holstein cows exposed to aflatoxin. The researchers discovered that the minerals increased liver concentrations of selenium and iron and boosted serum glutathione peroxidase activity.
A new study found that genetic variation in Caucasians with chronic hepatitis B infection increases the risk of severe liver damage and inflammation. Researchers identified a link between the STAT4 gene and liver fibrosis, suggesting that genetic factors may play a role in disease progression.
Researchers found that mice with obesity develop new liver circadian rhythms that impact fat accumulation and burning, suggesting a potential therapeutic strategy for treating obesity-related liver diseases. Administering drugs at specific times when PPAR-alpha is most active could enhance effectiveness and reduce toxicity.
Researchers found reduced levels of plasmalogens in the liver are associated with an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease, mild cognitive impairment, and other biomarkers of neurodegeneration. The study suggests that a deficiency in these lipids could lead to the eventual destruction of peroxisomes, increasing Alzheimer's risk.
Studies investigate how changes in gut bacteria and lipid metabolism may influence brain health and cognitive decline. Research suggests that altered plasmalogens production by the liver may result in reduced availability of critical lipids to the brain, contributing to impaired cognitive function and neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's.
A new study reveals a significant increase in liver deaths due to cirrhosis among young adults, with the highest fatalities among whites, American Indians, and Hispanics. The rise is attributed entirely to alcohol-related liver disease, highlighting the need for prevention strategies such as taxes on alcohol and reducing marketing.
A TGen-led study has found a link between DNA methylation and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in obese patients. The research identified four genes that may represent potential targets for new therapeutics.
A study found a 65% increase in cirrhosis deaths and a doubling of liver cancer deaths among US adults between 1999 and 2016. Young people aged 25-34 experienced the highest average annual increase in cirrhosis deaths, driven by alcohol-related liver disease.
Researchers at BIDMC developed the BE3A score to predict improvement in liver function after DAA therapy for patients with decompensated cirrhosis. The online scoring system assesses 5 baseline factors to provide a shared decision-making tool for physicians and patients.
Researchers have identified specific lipid species in the blood and liver that correlate with healthy or fatty liver states. These findings suggest that measuring individual lipid species may provide a more accurate diagnosis of metabolic diseases such as NAFLD, diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.
Researchers have developed genetically humanized mice that can be persistently infected with Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV), a common cause of liver fibrosis and cancer. The mice were able to rid themselves of the virus before showing any liver damage, making them an ideal model for testing new treatments.
Researchers at UCalgary have discovered that the antidepressant mirtazapine may be an effective treatment for PBC, a rare and incurable liver disease. The study found that patients taking mirtazapine showed improved health outcomes compared to those without depression.
A study by ISGlobal reveals the presence of proteins from hypnozoites in circulating extracellular vesicles, providing a potential diagnostic tool for asymptomatic patients. This breakthrough could help identify and stop malaria vivax transmission, an essential requirement to achieve the WHO's target of eliminating malaria by 2030.
A new compound, DPM-1001, has shown promise in reducing copper levels in cells and improving symptoms of Wilson's disease. The study confirmed that the compound is orally available and specifically targets copper, reducing unwanted side effects.
Researchers identified a compound called phenylacetic acid (PAA) produced by gut bacteria linked to the early onset of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). The study suggests PAA could be used as a biological marker in the clinic to identify patients at increased risk of disease.
A TGen-led study has identified significant gene expression patterns associated with obesity-related NASH inflammation and fibrosis. The researchers discovered 176 genes specific to fibrosis, revealing three cellular pathways and 16 previously associated genes.
Researchers developed a new ultrasound technology, time-harmonic elastography, to diagnose liver fibrosis in obese adolescents without invasive biopsies. The technology accurately distinguishes between patients with no or mild fibrosis and those with moderate or advanced fibrosis.
A new approach for treating liver cirrhosis has been found with aleglitazar, which reduces inflammation and portal hypertension in rats with cirrhosis. Aleglitazar suppresses inflammation, vasoconstriction, angiogenesis, and tumor necrosis factor overproduction in cirrhotic rats.
A new decision-making tool called the BE3A score assesses 5 factors to predict improvement in liver function for patients with decompensated cirrhosis. The scoring system will aid physicians in shared decision-making about HCV treatment, particularly for those awaiting liver transplantation.