Articles tagged with Liver
A study found that lactulose improved cognitive function and health-related quality-of-life in patients with minimal hepatic encephalopathy, a condition associated with advanced liver disease. The treatment showed significant improvement in emotional behavior, movement, mobility, sleep/rest, and recreational activities.
Research suggests sweat can carry hepatitis B virus, potentially transmitting the infection during contact sports. The study found that 13% of Olympic wrestlers had hidden or occult HBV infection and 11% had particles of the virus in their sweat.
Researchers have identified the liver as a promising target for cancer gene therapy using viral vectors, taking advantage of the structural disorganization in cancer cells. The study demonstrates that adenoviral vectors can selectively infect cancer cells while leaving normal liver cells unharmed.
A 15-year study on liver retransplantation found positive trends in indications for surgery, fewer rejections and complications, and improved intensive care management. Therapeutic measures such as immunosuppressant dosage reduction and early blood transfusions contributed to better patient survival rates.
A new study found that a series of simple blood tests can accurately diagnose liver fibrosis in patients with chronic hepatitis C. The FibroIndex was more accurate than two other indices and showed promise as a non-invasive alternative to liver biopsy.
Researchers studying mice and rats found that CLA supplementation led to rapid weight loss in mice but excessive liver fat accumulation, a common side effect of rapid weight loss. In contrast, rats on a CLA-supplemented diet showed decreased insulin resistance despite not losing weight.
A novel transgenic mouse model shows that the circadian liver clock can drive gene expression in the absence of systemic cues, while systemic cues can also synchronize peripheral clocks. This suggests a complex interplay between local and systemic control mechanisms.
Critically ill patients receiving early enteral nutrition had lower rates of liver dysfunction compared to those fed through central venous catheters. Early feeding was associated with reduced liver dysfunction, longer ICU stays, but no increased mortality.
A new study has found that the ADH1B*3 allele appears to protect against alcoholism in Afro-Trinidadians, while increasing the risk for liver disease among those who drink heavily. Individuals with this allele have lower alcohol consumption levels and are less likely to be alcohol-dependent.
A study found that liver transplant patients with a history of obesity, impaired fasting glucose, and hepatitis C infection are at increased risk of developing new-onset diabetes mellitus. The risk factors also include the use of certain immunosuppressants and cardiovascular risk factors.
Studies found that heparan sulfate in the liver plays a crucial role in clearing triglycerides and cholesterol from the blood. The discovery could lead to new treatments for high blood-fat levels and related complications such as arthrosclerosis.
Researchers have identified a new 'glucose sensor' that plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism and fat synthesis, potentially leading to new treatments for obesity and diabetes. The discovery highlights the significance of the Liver X Receptors (LXRs) in regulating gene expression linked to cholesterol and fat metabolism.
A novel compound, tazopsine, isolated from a Madagascan plant has shown activity against the liver stages of human and mouse malaria. Its semisynthetic derivative, NCP-tazopsine, completely protected mice from malaria parasites, suggesting a promising new candidate for anti-malarial prophylaxis.
Researchers have developed a gene chip that can detect genetic causes of jaundice in children and adults, potentially leading to personalized treatment options. The 'jaundice chip' is nearly 100% effective in detecting common mutations associated with inherited liver diseases.
Researchers at Rice University and The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center found that carbon nanotubes injected into lab animals cause no immediate harm and circulate in the blood and liver for over an hour before being eliminated. The study provides promising results for biomedical applications of carbon nanotubes.
Research on mice carrying a mutated human gene for alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency found that a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug significantly increased liver damage. The study suggests that NSAIDs could exacerbate liver injury in people with alpha-1-AT deficiency, highlighting the need to avoid these drugs.
Researchers developed a new model to predict survival after liver transplantation, considering specific characteristics of donors and recipients. The model identified key factors impacting graft survival, including donor age and recipient MELD score.
Researchers used resveratrol to increase the lifespan of obese mice, reversing nearly all changes in gene expression patterns linked to diabetes and heart disease. The study also found improved motor skills and quality of life in mice treated with resveratrol, suggesting potential therapeutic applications for age-related diseases.
A study by the NIH/National Institute on Aging demonstrates that resveratrol, an activator of sirtuins, can improve health and survival in aged overweight male mice. Resveratrol supplementation improved insulin sensitivity, reduced liver size, and enhanced motor function in the mice compared to those without resveratrol.
Researchers discovered that liver cells can activate T cells independently of the lymph system, potentially contributing to impaired immune responses in chronic hepatitis C. The study found that T cells interact with liver cells through fenestrations in sinusoidal endothelial cells.
A new study by Saint Louis University researchers shows a cocktail of ribavirin and Infergen is nearly twice as effective in controlling hepatitis C than standard treatments. Fourteen percent of patients taking the treatment were virus-negative after six months.
The AGA Institute's report emphasizes the need for gastroenterologists to adapt to changing practices, technologies, and economic pressures. Key findings include the potential obsolescence of common endoscopic procedures due to technological advancements and increased utilization of nurse practitioners and physician assistants.
A study found that patients with NAFLD have a significant risk of developing end-stage liver disease, cardiovascular complications, and diabetes. Lifestyle modifications are recommended to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and improve liver histology.
A study found that 13% of children and adolescents with autopsy records had fatty liver, while 9.6% of the living population in San Diego County had the disease. The team identified major risk factors, including age, ethnicity, gender, and obesity.
Research published in Gut found that female liver transplant recipients live an average of 22 years after the procedure, compared to 18 years for men. The study analyzed data from over 2,700 patients and found that younger people tend to have longer life expectancy but also lose more years of life due to transplantation.
A transfusion-free surgical program for Jehovah's Witness patients undergoing liver transplantation has significantly reduced the overall use of blood products for non-Jehovah's Witnesses. The program's implementation led to lower mean number of intraoperative PRBC and FFP transfusions, as well as decreased procedure cost.
Researchers from IDIBAPS and Queensland University discovered that caveolin-1 and lipid droplets are essential for liver regeneration. The protein allows hepatocytes to accumulate energetic reserves and start the genetic machinery for division. Without it, mice are unable to regenerate their liver tissue.
Scientists have developed a method to predict whether melanoma of the eye will spread to the liver, where it quickly turns deadly. The molecular screening test can detect both whether a tumor is likely to spread and how fast.
A recent study found that colchicine significantly reduces the risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with hepatitis virus-related end-stage liver disease. Colchicine treatment delays HCC diagnosis by an average of 72 months and improves survival rates.
Mayo Clinic researchers have developed MR Elastography (MRE), a new technique for measuring liver elasticity using MRI. This non-invasive method shows great promise for detecting liver fibrosis, which can lead to cirrhosis if left untreated.
Scientists develop method to introduce purine nucleoside phosphorylase (PNP) enzyme into cells of mice with genetic defect, potentially leading to treatment for individuals lacking PNP. Research also sheds light on scavenger receptor BI's role in protecting against heart disease.
The partnership aims to support the training of young investigators in pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. Hepatology will now be made available without charge to NASPGHAN fellows.
A study on liver transplant patients found that those with low bone density before transplant showed significant improvement afterwards. Bone loss immediately following transplant was common and several risk factors were identified, including PSC, younger age at transplant, and smoking.
A study found that cholesterol accumulation in the liver depletes a powerful antioxidant, making cells susceptible to inflammation and damage. Cholesterol-lowering therapies may offer a useful treatment for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and fatty liver disease.
Elevated cholesterol and liver enzyme levels more common than thought among isoretinoin patients, even those with normal blood test results before therapy. Moderate to severe abnormalities are generally transient and reversible.
Researchers found that combined liver-kidney transplants improved patient survival rates compared to separate transplants. Patients who received dialysis for longer than two months before surgery also recovered better after the combined transplant.
A combined liver and kidney transplant has been shown to improve patient survival rates for those with dual organ disease, including hepatorenal syndrome. The study found that patients who underwent dialysis for longer than two months prior to surgery fared better after the combined transplant.
Researchers found that patients with hepatocellular carcinoma who responded well to transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) prior to liver transplantation had a higher survival rate. The study's findings challenge the traditional use of Milan criteria, which rely on tumor size and number, as a reliable predictor of recurrence.
Researchers at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia identified a second gene linked to Alagille syndrome, a genetic developmental disease affecting multiple organs. Mutations in the NOTCH2 gene were found to cause kidney abnormalities in patients and families.
A study of 417 post-menopausal women found no harmful effects on cognitive abilities or health-related quality of life from a daily .014 milligram dose of estradiol via skin patch over two years. The results suggest that women can use this patch without harm for two years, benefiting their bones and alleviating hot flashes.
Dr. Maria Sjogren's study tracks 90 active-duty servicemembers with hepatitis C, exploring disease progression and treatment effects on quality of life. Participants reported improved well-being after treatment, attributing it to the therapeutic process itself.
A simple blood test can indicate the presence of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis by measuring caspase 3-generated cytokeratin-18 fragments. This test has shown high sensitivity and specificity in differentiating NASH from non-NASH in patients with suspected NAFLD.
A study found that a combination of pegylated interferon and ribavirin achieved better results than standard therapy in patients with recurrent hepatitis C after liver transplantation. The treatment was more effective, especially when patients showed an early decline in viral load.
Researchers have discovered that substituting Omegaven, an IV fat mixture made from fish oil, can prevent fat accumulation and liver injury in patients with parenteral nutrition. The study has shown promising results in treating liver disease in children and adults, with most patients experiencing complete resolution of the condition.
A study by Ohio State University researchers found that mice lacking a specific gene produce fewer parasites in their livers, preventing the disease from developing. This discovery may lead to the creation of new drugs to treat different diseases affecting the liver.
Antarctic fish use the exocrine pancreas and stomach to produce antifreeze glycoproteins, contradicting earlier assumptions about liver production. The discovery sheds new light on teleost freeze-avoidance physiology.
A large study found that moderate coffee consumption was associated with a 22% lower risk of developing alcoholic cirrhosis. The study suggests that coffee may help explain the variability in cirrhosis risk among heavy drinkers, but more research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind this potential protective effect.
Obesity disrupts hormone signaling pathways and leads to metabolic changes that worsen liver disease. Researchers recommend weight loss, insulin-sensitizing drugs, or increased dosages of combination therapy to improve treatment outcomes for hepatitis C patients.
The authors of a commentary propose developing educational messages about genetic testing to address misunderstandings and societal fears. This could involve collaboration between professional organizations, patient advocacy groups, and the public at large to improve the interpretation of test results.
A study of 96 liver transplant patients found that 66% were fatigued, with physical fatigue and reduced activity being the primary concerns. Rehabilitation programs focusing on improving activity patterns and physical fitness may help alleviate fatigue after liver transplantation.
A study published by the American Gastroenterological Association found that obesity is linked to a higher risk of liver failure, particularly in patients who need liver transplants or experience severe complications. Obesity can impair liver regeneration, making obese patients more vulnerable to acute liver failure.
Recent studies demonstrate improved virus suppression with novel therapy combinations for hepatitis treatment, including valopicitabine plus peg-interferon. Researchers found a higher dose of the drug showed promising results, but also led to side effects that forced dosage reduction.
A Joslin-led study has discovered that insulin signals to the liver differently for glucose and lipid metabolism, opening the door to developing targeted therapies. The research reveals new insights into phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) pathway, which regulates insulin's action in the liver.
Researchers found that a disproportionate ratio of phosphatidylcholine to phosphatidylethanolamine in cell membranes undermines membrane integrity and influences progression to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Maintaining a healthy ratio may provide new approaches for managing the condition.
Scientists from the University of Florida's Institute on Aging found that reducing calories by 8% and exercising moderately extended lifespan and improved liver function in rats. This discovery suggests that even slight calorie moderation can have significant effects on health, with potential implications for human aging.
This study found that pediatric liver transplant patients develop chronic hepatitis, characterized by increasing fibrosis and autoantibody production. Regular monitoring of autoantibodies is necessary for early detection.
A new study reveals that combined contrast enhanced MRI (CCE-MRI) closely matches the staging of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) using conventional pathology. CCE-MRI offers a safer alternative to invasive liver biopsy, directly visualizing fibrosis and detecting liver cancers simultaneously.
A study found that patients with HIV-HBV coinfection can successfully undergo liver transplantation without progression of viral disease, even in the setting of lamivudine resistance. Controlling HBV is crucial for survival, and ongoing monitoring will be essential to minimize liver-related complications.
Researchers recommend pre-screening to avoid worst liver damage caused by chemotherapy drugs. The study found that irinotecan was associated with steatohepatitis and oxaliplatin with sinusoidal dilation, which can lead to liver disease and failure.
Bile acids play a crucial role in signaling the liver to regenerate tissue, with research suggesting that an imbalance in these compounds can trigger the process. Understanding this mechanism could lead to new treatments for liver disease.