Research on the liver in health and disease. Covers liver-disease subtypes, the liver's role in circadian timing, targeted therapies, and cell regulation.
A recent study published in Liver Transplantation found that obese liver transplant recipients with diabetes experienced higher morbidity rates due to post-transplant complications, particularly diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Despite this, obesity did not negatively affect survival rates.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that DHA supplementation partially prevented metabolic damage associated with the Western diet. This led to observable changes in carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism.
A study led by Boston University School of Medicine found that a lack of liver protein SIRT1 is associated with lower levels of FGF21, leading to fatty liver disease and obesity. Elevated FGF21 levels, however, transformed white fat cells into brown fat cells, producing heat and burning calories.
Researchers from University of Notre Dame and Indiana University School of Medicine have revealed a link between the circadian clock and alcohol-induced liver disease. The study found that disturbances in the liver's daily rhythms can lead to fatty liver disease, suggesting a potential target for treatment.
A novel study suggests that monitoring inactive chronic hepatitis B (HBV) carriers is a cost-effective strategy for China. The M&T strategy, which includes twice-yearly assessment of HBV and ALT levels, would result in significant health benefits at the population level, including reduced liver cancer and mortality rates.
The liver's protein production and release are influenced by both the internal clock and feeding behaviors, according to a recent study published in PNAS. The researchers found that the circadian clock does not solely regulate protein production but also affects the storage and release of proteins into the body.
A study published in Hepatology found that SLPI protein plays a critical role in excessive anti-inflammatory responses in acute liver failure, making patients susceptible to sepsis and infection. Inhibiting SLPI protein may help restore immune function and prevent infection in these patients.
Joslin researchers have discovered that the hormone FGF21 stimulates the browning of white fat, leading to improved glucose metabolism and calorie burning. This finding has implications for the development of new medications for type 2 diabetes and obesity.
A research team at CNIO has identified AP-1 proteins as key regulators of fatty liver disease (FLD), a condition that affects up to 30% of adults in Western societies. Increased expression of these proteins can prevent fat accumulation and FLD in mice.
Researchers found that co-culturing hepatocytes with mesenchymal stem cells from umbilical cord or fat tissues improved albumin production, urea production, and viability of hepatocytes. The combination of transplanted hepatocytes and MSCs has great promise in treating acute liver failure.
Researchers discovered that skin can communicate with the liver, affecting metabolism and fat accumulation. Covering skin with a substance like vaseline or latex prevents heat loss, which leads to reduced fat accumulation in the liver.
Research reveals racial disparities in pediatric liver transplant survival, with higher graft and patient survival rates among white children. Socioeconomic differences also contribute to these disparities, highlighting the need for further investigation and intervention.
Researchers have determined the high-resolution atomic structure of E2 envelope glycoprotein, a crucial part of the hepatitis C virus. The new data reveal unexpected structural features and should greatly speed efforts to make an effective hepatitis C vaccine.
A study published in Nature Medicine suggests a potential new treatment for seizures caused by high levels of ammonia in the blood. Bumetanide, a diuretic drug used to treat high blood pressure, has been found to restore normal electrical activity in the brains of mice with genetic metabolic disorders and prevent seizures.
Researchers have discovered that the immune system forms in the embryo's yolk sac before blood stem cells, potentially leading to a better understanding of childhood diseases such as leukaemia. The study provides new insights into the development of immune-competent cells and their relationship with blood stem cells.
Researchers found that FOXO3 transcription factor protects against alcoholic liver injury when suppressed, but combination of HCV and alcohol disrupts this protective effect. FOXO3 activation is crucial for autophagy, a cellular degradation pathway that removes damaged mitochondria and prevents liver injury.
Researchers in the UK found that organs from selected DCD donors with pre-hospital cardiac arrest had no significant impact on graft or transplant recipient survival compared to other deceased donors. The study suggests using these organs could boost the donor pool without adverse outcomes for liver transplant recipients.
Researchers at the University of Missouri found that subclinical hypocalcemia, a condition of low blood calcium levels, is related to higher levels of fat in the liver. This can lead to health problems such as ketosis, uterus and mammary infections, and decreased milk production.
Researchers found that the immune system's JunB gene causes liver cells to become inflamed during hepatitis, leading to irreversible damage. The study proposes a new mechanism by which AP-1 acts as a double-edged sword in the liver, contributing to both viral defense and disease progression.
Researchers at McMaster University discovered that metformin reduces harmful fat molecules in the liver, allowing insulin to work better and lower blood sugar levels. The study found that even obese mice with genetic mutations developed fatty liver and pre-diabetes.
Researchers found that liver Kupffer cells are essential for deleting B cells using anti-CD20 therapy. The interaction between the liver and the immune system also affects the progression of candidiasis, a leading cause of hospital-acquired infections.
B cells circulating through the liver are first depleted after treatment with anti-CD20 antibodies. The study reveals a vital role of liver Kupffer cells in deleting B cells and provides techniques to improve the effectiveness of anti-CD20 therapy.
A new study published in Gastroenterology found that high-calorie diets, regardless of sugar type, contribute to the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The study revealed comparable effects of fructose and glucose on the liver, highlighting calorie intake as a key factor in liver disease progression.
A non-invasive alternative to liver biopsy, the French-made FibroScan, has been proven very reliable in a national multi-center study. The device measures liver stiffness to assess fibrosis and guide treatment, providing quick and painless results.
Two new studies demonstrate the effectiveness of sofosbuvir in preventing post-transplant recurrence of hepatitis C virus in liver transplant recipients. The experimental anti-viral drug was found to be safe and effective in over 60% of patients, offering a new hope for those with limited treatment options.
Research published in Hepatology suggests that estrogen has a protective effect against the development of severe liver fibrosis in patients with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The study found that men and post-menopausal women have similar risks of developing severe fibrosis compared to pre-menopausal women.
Scientists at Brigham and Women's Hospital uncover a joint effort between the liver and muscle to maintain balanced fat production and burning. A phospholipid molecule acts as a signal molecule controlling this process. The study highlights the importance of coordinated changes in organs like the liver and muscle in metabolic responses.
Researchers at NUS found that activating Rho protein suppresses liver malignancies, providing evidence for signalling crosstalk between proteins in regulating liver overgrowth and cancer. The study paves the way for developing targeted therapeutics for liver cancer.
Scientists at Stanford University School of Medicine have developed a fast and efficient way to turn fat cells extracted from routine liposuction into liver cells. This method, which uses spherical culture, produces human liver-like cells that flourish inside mice bodies without signs of being tumorogenic.
Researchers developed a palatable paste to administer highly concentrated drugs in small volumes, improving treatment outcomes for llamas and alpacas. The paste allows for effective treatment of small liver fluke infections with minimal side effects.
Researchers at CNIO discovered that Fra-1 protein protects the liver from drug-induced damage and neutralizes toxins. This new regulatory mechanism could lead to future studies on new drugs for diseases related to toxic compound accumulation.
Scientists have developed a new method to create self-renewing stem cells specific to the human foregut, opening up possibilities for regenerative therapies. The breakthrough technique allows for the growth of pure liver or pancreatic cells in sufficient quantities for clinical use, overcoming current limitations.
A new study found that danoprevir added to the current treatment regimen for patients with hepatitis C leads to high rates of remission and a well-tolerated safety profile. The drug demonstrated an 85% sustained virologic response rate, making it a potential breakthrough in treating this serious liver disease.
A study by CU researchers has identified a soy derivative as the likely cause of liver damage in patients receiving intravenous nutrition. The finding may lead to better treatments for patients with intestinal problems or pancreatitis who rely on intravenous feeding.
Neurological researchers have discovered a significant link between abdominal fat and memory loss, finding that the same protein controlling fat metabolism in the liver also resides in the memory center of the brain. This study suggests that people with high levels of abdominal fat may be at risk for memory-related problems later in life.
A study of identical twins with significant weight differences found that in half of the pairs, the obese twin had a poorer blood fat profile and increased risk of diabetes. In contrast, the other half showed no difference in metabolic health between the two twins, shedding light on the 'metabolically healthy obesity' phenomenon.
Liver transplant recipients who receive substance abuse treatment before and after transplantation have lower alcohol relapse rates than those untreated or only treated prior to transplantation. Continued alcohol abuse post-transplantation also decreases graft survival and increases organ scarring.
A TGen-led study has identified genetic loci associated with total bilirubin levels, steatosis, and mild fibrosis in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. The study found evidence for new genetic factors that may help identify patients at risk of developing severe forms of fatty-liver disease.
Researchers developed a clinical tool to predict the risk of end-stage renal disease among liver transplant recipients. The Renal Risk Index calculates a score based on recipient characteristics and identifies factors associated with increased risk, such as BMI over 35 and hepatitis C diagnosis.
Experts advocate for widespread screening of 'Baby Boomer' generation in Canada due to high prevalence and lack of awareness. Early treatment makes hepatitis C curable, saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.
A simple 'traffic light' test developed by the University of Southampton has shown promise in reducing harmful drinking rates and potentially preventing hundreds of alcohol-related deaths. The test, which costs £50, can detect hidden liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in high-risk populations and advises patients to reduce or avoid drinking.
A new imaging technique, MRE, can accurately detect fibrosis in children with chronic liver disease, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. The study showed high accuracy in detecting advanced fibrosis in obese patients, potentially reducing the need for costly and invasive liver biopsies.
Researchers developed a test that can clearly distinguish early liver cancer cells from normal liver cells by giving them a distinctive red-brown hue. The test uses a probe to detect and stain a microRNA called mir-21, which is found in liver cancer but not healthy liver cells.
Researchers have developed a high-yield method for isolating viable hepatocytes from cryopreserved neonatal livers, showing better thawing recovery than those from adult livers. This breakthrough may provide an alternative source for liver cell transplantation, potentially improving patient outcomes.
A recent study published in Nature Communications suggests that the body's production of fructose from non-fructose containing carbohydrates may be a key factor in obesity and insulin resistance. Researchers found that mice converted glucose to fructose in the liver, leading to the development of fatty liver and insulin resistance.
Researchers have made a breakthrough in developing better tests for liver toxicity, which could lead to safer medicines and more drugs reaching patients. The new tests can detect liver damage without causing permanent harm, allowing patients to continue taking medications.
Researchers suggest that anti-PD-1 antibodies could be effective in treating hepatitis C and other persistent viral infections. The study found that animal models with HCV infection showed improved immune function after treatment with PD-1 blocking antibodies.
A team of UCLA researchers is working on a new approach to improve the quality of donor livers, aiming to reduce organ rejection and increase transplant survival rates. They plan to target specific immune activation pathways and enhance local mechanisms that promote liver regeneration.
A novel machine learning-based approach predicts hepatotoxic potential of antisense oligonucleotides based on chemical sequence. The method achieved 74% accuracy in predicting toxicity and was used to redesign a therapeutic oligonucleotide with reduced potential for liver harm.
A combination of sofosbuvir and ribavirin achieved high sustained virologic response rates in patients with unfavorable treatment characteristics, including advanced liver disease and high baseline HCV RNA levels. The regimen was well-tolerated and safe, with a lower relapse rate compared to traditional interferon-based therapy.
A new all-oral drug regimen has been found to be highly effective in clearing the hepatitis C virus and well tolerated in patients who historically have had unfavorable prognoses. The study showed a cure rate of about 70 percent using regimens without interferon, offering hope for those with chronic HCV infection.
Researchers at Duke University Medical Center found that increased caffeine intake may reduce fatty liver in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Consuming four cups of coffee or tea a day could be beneficial in preventing and protecting against the progression of NAFLD.
A recent study published in Immunity has identified interleukin-33 as a central factor in the formation of liver fibrosis. The research suggests that targeting this molecule could provide a promising new approach to protecting against liver fibrosis and chronic liver disease.
A new study found that replacing soybean oil with fish oil in intravenous nutrition can reverse intestinal failure-associated liver disease in children. After 17 weeks, nearly 80% of patients experienced a reversal of their liver disease, while only 5% of those who received soybean oil saw a reversal.
Research reveals metabolic syndrome is common among liver transplant recipients, with exercise potentially reducing complications. The study suggests structured exercise programs during the first year after surgery could benefit patients.
Researchers found that weight loss surgery can reverse the symptoms of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease by altering DNA methylation and gene expression. This study provides insight into the mechanisms behind bariatric surgery's benefits beyond weight loss.
Researchers at University of Bristol suggest combining antiviral treatment, opiate substitution therapy, and high-coverage needle and syringe programs to achieve substantial reductions in HCV prevalence among people who inject drugs. This approach can lead to a 45% reduction in HCV prevalence over ten years.
A gene mutation disrupts immune cell activity, causing liver attacks in autoimmune hepatitis. Researchers create model to study treatment targets and therapies.
Researchers at Boston Children's Hospital found that split liver transplantation carries no increased risk of failure in recipients, allowing surgeons to save young patients and adults. By allocating infants and small children first and splitting available livers, doctors can virtually eliminate waitlist mortality for children.
Scientists at MIT have developed a system to grow liver tissue that can support the liver stage of malaria parasites, allowing for testing of new drugs and vaccines. The system was used to study a vaccine for P. falciparum and showed promising results.