Research on the liver in health and disease. Covers liver-disease subtypes, the liver's role in circadian timing, targeted therapies, and cell regulation.
Excessive alcohol consumption causes severe digestive problems, including liver damage, stomach disorders, and increased cancer risk. Chronic alcohol use can lead to conditions like cirrhosis, pancreatitis, and colorectal cancer.
Researchers at German Cancer Research Center found that hepatic stellate cells regulate liver metabolism, regeneration, and size. The study suggests new therapeutic approaches for liver diseases by targeting the positive functions of these cells.
The study highlights the role of the Nwd1 gene in liver disease and its potential as a therapeutic target. Mice with Nwd1 gene deletion exhibited liver pathologies mirroring MASH, including excessive lipid accumulation and increased ER stress.
Recent developments in fluorescent probes offer improved specificity and sensitivity for detecting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Next-generation probes are being developed to enhance tissue penetration depth and probe specificity, potentially improving surgical outcomes.
Researchers developed a nanoparticle that delivers an mRNA vaccine targeting a KRAS antigen, boosting the immune response against pancreatic cancer. Experiments in mice showed inhibited and prevented tumor growth, as well as long-term protection against recurrence.
A new drug candidate has been developed to target and eliminate senescent cells in the liver, reducing fat buildup and preventing liver damage. The study demonstrates a safer and more effective approach to treating metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and potentially inhibiting liver cancer development.
Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) exhibits a broad range of hepatoprotective mechanisms, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, which may benefit various types of drug-induced liver injury. In hepatocellular DILI, UDCA reduces inflammation, alleviates ER stress, and protects against mitochondrial damage. In ...
A nationwide study found that patients with alcoholic liver disease have a significantly higher risk of developing colorectal cancer. The study highlights the importance of comprehensive CRC screening and risk stratification based on new consensus-based definitions of liver disease.
The UMCG's perfusion technique has led to a record number of liver transplants in the Netherlands and is gaining international attention. With the protocol now open to every transplant center worldwide, more organs can be made suitable for transplantation, resulting in better patient outcomes.
A consensus statement by the Chinese College of Interventionalists promotes CBCT use in liver malignancy therapies, addressing limitations and challenges. The integration of artificial intelligence and technological innovations are expected to refine CBCT's efficacy and safety.
Researchers identified 19 metabolites and found that levels of certain compounds correlated with increased blood pressure, worse obstetric outcomes, and poorer end-organ function. The study expands scientific knowledge of preeclampsia and its mechanisms, paving the way for future therapeutic strategies.
A new classification system for SJS/TEN divides the disorder into five types based on causative factors and diagnostic algorithms. This typology aims to bring clarity to diagnosis and treatment by providing consistent criteria for identifying underlying causes.
A new study at the University of Gothenburg found that a software robot can detect side effects faster than physicians during amiodarone treatment for cardiac arrhythmia. The robot also recommends appropriate intervals between lab tests, aligning with standard practices and reducing unnecessary testing.
The Rice University lab, in collaboration with Baylor College of Medicine, has developed a new gene-editing strategy called Repair Drive that improves the effectiveness of gene therapies in the liver. The technique enables the repair of liver cells at higher rates and equips them with a selective advantage to outcompete incorrectly edi...
This study found that intermediate-term oral contraceptive use was associated with lower antioxidant levels and higher triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein levels. Regular monitoring of these parameters is recommended for OCP users to mitigate potential metabolic and hepatic effects.
A study by Keck Medicine of USC found that heavy drinkers with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a high waist circumference are more than twice as likely to develop advanced liver disease. The research highlights the importance of considering preexisting health issues when making decisions about alcohol consumption.
A new biodegradable polymer-based delivery system efficiently transports mRNA, outperforming existing lipid nanoparticles in delivery efficiency and expression duration. The study also shows improved immune response results without liver accumulation or toxicity.
Scientists at Tel Aviv University successfully transport mRNA-based drugs to the immune system of small and large intestines without passing through the liver. The breakthrough could enable treatments for inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's and colitis.
A new trial will test whether taking HMB can improve patients' physical function and quality of life. The BOOST study aims to recruit 124 patients with cirrhosis and measure its effects on liver disease, mental wellbeing, and physical function over 24 weeks.
New research reveals that lipid-associated macrophages (LAMs) are crucial for liver repair, while Kupffer cells also adapt to take on a LAM-like phenotype. The Trem2 gene is essential for clearance of dying liver cells and promoting tissue repair.
Researchers reveal senescence's impact on liver health, from repair and regeneration to chronic disease progression. Emerging therapies, such as senolytic treatments, aim to selectively eliminate senescent cells while preserving healthy tissue.
A real-world multicenter study evaluated the effectiveness and safety of tenofovir amibufenamide in treating chronic hepatitis B. The study found that TMF was comparable to TDF in terms of treatment effectiveness, with improved renal safety and no impact on lipid levels.
Researchers found that a lower CD4+/CD8+ T cell ratio after 12-24 weeks significantly predicted HBsAg clearance in IHCs treated with peginterferon alpha. Higher baseline percentages of CD3+CD8+ cells and lower CD4+/CD8+ ratios were also associated with improved outcomes.
A meta-analysis found a dose-dependent relationship between alcohol consumption and the risks of cirrhosis and HCC in HBV patients, with daily alcohol consumption exceeding 12g increasing risk by 6.2% and 11.5% respectively.
This study investigated the performance of plasma neurodegenerative biomarkers (NfL, GFAP, tau, and UCHL1) in diagnosing minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) and predicting overt hepatic encephalopathy (OHE) in Chinese patients with hepatic cirrhosis. The results showed that a combination of NfL, GFAP, tau, and UCHL1 was effective in d...
Researchers discover immune cells regulate blood sugar levels by stimulating glucagon production in the pancreas. This complex neuroimmune-hormonal circuit reveals a new way the body maintains stable glucose levels, especially during periods of low energy.
A study found that chlorcyclizine, a decades-old allergy medication, could potentially treat erythropoietic protoporphyria (EPP), a condition creating extreme skin light sensitivity and toxic liver buildup. Chlorcyclizine may work by helping the liver clear toxic porphyrin buildup and reducing inflammation.
Scientists at Salk Institute discovered that removing bile acid-creating protein BAAT and adding bile acid UDCA controls tumor growth in mice with liver cancer. UDCA supplements may be a quick solution to improving liver cancer patient outcomes.
Researchers from Kumamoto University identified SerpinA1 as a key regulator in combating obesity and enhancing glucose metabolism. The study found that activating brown adipose tissue could pave the way for innovative treatments for diabetes and metabolic disorders.
IL-8+ neutrophils are central drivers of inflammation in alcohol-associated hepatitis, and targeting them may lead to selective reduction of inflammation. Several strategies for targeting IL-8 signaling have been proposed, including therapeutic antibodies and inhibitors.
Researchers have discovered that AHCC suppresses liver fibrosis by inhibiting the activation of hepatic stellate cells through two channels. Early administration of AHCC may hold the key to preventing the onset of cirrhosis, a potentially fatal condition.
The review summarizes findings on cellular, molecular, and systemic processes involved in ALD progression, highlighting pathways for future research. It also discusses the role of extracellular vesicles in intercellular communication and their implications for early diagnosis and therapeutic intervention.
Researchers discovered a novel combination of plasma-based biomarkers that can predict liver fibrosis in Latino adolescents with obesity. The study found that dihydroxyacetone phosphate (DHAP) and alanine transaminase (ALT) were significantly associated with fibrosis, suggesting a potential low-cost, noninvasive screening tool.
The discovery of ferroptosis has renewed interest in non-apoptotic cell death mechanisms. While initially studied in cancer, ferroptosis is increasingly implicated in various diseases, including liver injury. However, the liver's robust antioxidant defenses question its widespread applicability.
A new study published in Lancet Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that a combined screening approach can detect liver damage in people with type 2 diabetes. The method involves elastography, an ultrasound-based technique, which was found to be willing to be adopted by most patients. Early detection of liver fibrosis is crucial, as ...
MELD 3.0 builds upon previous variants by incorporating serum albumin and gender to correct disparities in organ allocation, particularly for women. It demonstrates improved prognostication for various chronic liver diseases, including cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and acute-on-chronic liver failure.
A study found that ADAMTS13 regulates VWF expression and reduces hepatic platelet accumulation in PA-ILI patients and mice. Systemic administration of recombinant ADAMTS13 decreased platelet accumulation and mitigated liver necrosis.
A systematic review and meta-analysis found CAD is common in cirrhotic patients, but cirrhosis itself may not be associated with increased CAD risk. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and hepatitis C virus infection are also linked to CAD presence.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have identified two types of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, a liver-specific type and a systemic type that affects other organs. The discovery could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of this growing patient group, with potential benefits for cardiovascular health.
A large clinical trial found that removing 10% of a patient's blood before major liver surgery reduces the need for transfusions by half. This practice, known as hypovolemic phlebotomy, lowers blood pressure in the liver and is safe, simple, and inexpensive.
A Virginia Tech researcher has received a collaborative grant to improve cancer therapies by developing 3D liver organoids and employing cutting-edge microscopy technology. The project aims to identify the most effective treatments for cancer, enabling better-targeted treatments.
A study published in Nature reveals that dietary fructose promotes tumor growth in animal models of melanoma, breast cancer, and cervical cancer. The liver converts fructose into usable nutrients for cancer cells, a finding that could lead to new treatment avenues.
Researchers identified plasma extracellular vesicle-derived microRNAs as potential biomarkers for AATD liver disease. They found 39 differentially expressed miRNAs, which were validated in an independent cohort for predicting AATD liver disease.
Long-term hormone therapy in transgender individuals leads to significant changes in body composition and risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Transgender men experience increased muscle volume and abdominal fat, while women's muscle mass decreases, according to a new study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine.
A new prognostic model, the CATCH-LIFE-MELD score, has been developed to predict short-term survival outcomes in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure. The model's enhanced accuracy allows clinicians to identify high-risk patients who may benefit from urgent interventions, such as liver transplantation.
Brigham researchers found that intestinal infections alter bile composition to promote intestinal defense, highlighting the liver's role in defending against infection. The study identified hundreds of new bile metabolites and revealed a shift in bile function during enteric infection.
A genetic key to understanding mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome has been identified, revealing mechanisms for improved diagnosis and treatment. The research highlights the crucial role of the MICOS10 gene in maintaining mitochondrial structure and function.
Researchers at UNC Health Care have discovered a little-known protein, PDGFA-associated protein 1 (PDAP1), that plays a crucial role in the replication and infection of hepatitis A virus. The protein is used by the virus to exploit the host cell's stress response, allowing it to produce its own proteins necessary for replication.
A new UCLA study categorizes people with chronic liver disease into four unique risk groups based on barriers to outpatient care, increasing the likelihood of hospitalization. The study highlights the need for interventions aimed at reducing avoidable hospitalizations among the highest-risk individuals.
A new study reveals dramatic changes to gut and mouth bacteria in people with chronic liver disease, correlating with increased antibiotic resistance and poor clinical outcomes. The findings suggest a need for personalized microbiome-based treatments and rapid diagnosis of infections to improve patient care.
The updated Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) 3.0 has reduced liver transplant disparities for women, increasing their chances of being added to the waitlist, receiving a transplant, and staying on it. Women now have equalized rates with men in terms of waitlist mortality and transplant rates after the policy change.
A new study reveals that an AI algorithm can accurately detect early-stage metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in patients who meet the criteria, leaving 83% undiagnosed. This highlights the need for improved screening and diagnosis methods to prevent progression to advanced liver disease.
Hospitalization rates for alcohol-induced liver disease rose significantly between 2005 and 2021, with greater absolute increases among older males than younger females. The study highlights the growing burden of this condition and underscores the importance of addressing alcohol-related liver disease.
A study found that beer-only drinkers have lower-quality diets and are more likely to be male, younger, smokers, and low income. They also reported the highest total daily caloric intake and lowest level of physical activity compared to other alcohol consumers.
Metformin, a widely prescribed diabetes drug, may increase risks of obesity and diabetes in newborns when given to pregnant women. The study found that the drug accumulated in the fetal kidneys, liver, and other organs, leading to growth restriction, which has been linked to an elevated risk of obesity and insulin resistance in childhood.
Researchers found that sodium butyrate inhibits necroptosis in intestinal epithelial cells of liver cirrhosis by regulating MLKL via E2F1. Fecal BA levels were negatively correlated with serum MLKL levels, suggesting a protective effect.
A study found that heavy drinking among adult Americans increased by more than 20% during the COVID-19 pandemic and continued for the following two years. The study analyzed data from over 24,000 adults and showed a sustained increase in alcohol use across all age groups, genders, and regions.
The 17-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 13 gene plays a significant role in regulating liver lipid metabolism, with loss-of-function variants linked to reduced risk of chronic liver disease progression. HSD17B13 modulation may provide therapeutic benefits for individuals with metabolic liver disease.
Experimental mouse models are crucial for studying liver fibrosis regression, with various models exhibiting reversible fibrosis after removal of causative agents or therapeutic interventions. However, challenges persist in replicating human disease progression and regression, highlighting the need for further refinement of these models.
Acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) is characterized by metabolic alterations that disrupt immune function, contributing to disease progression. Metabolite imbalances, such as elevated lactate levels and reduced ketone bodies, further suppress immune responses.