Research on the liver in health and disease. Covers liver-disease subtypes, the liver's role in circadian timing, targeted therapies, and cell regulation.
Researchers have developed a novel patch that can help liver tissue regenerate and inhibit inflammation. The patch demonstrated restored liver function in lab tests and promoted recovery from liver fibrosis in rats, showing great potential for treating liver diseases.
Researchers found that GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT-2 inhibitors lower the risk of major cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks, and severe liver complications compared to other diabetes treatments. These medications also showed no significant increase in severe adverse events.
Researchers found that mitochondrial GRIM19 loss induces liver fibrosis through NLRP3/IL33 activation via reactive oxygen species/NF-кB signaling. This mechanism may provide potential therapeutic approaches for preventing early-stage liver fibrosis.
Researchers developed a blood signature for identifying hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with metastatic traits using blood levels of alpha-fetoprotein and des-γ-carboxy-prothrombin. The signature effectively predicted HCC recurrence post-RFA, with 92% specificity and 91% sensitivity in the retrospective dataset.
Researchers investigated the effectiveness of systemic thrombolysis for acute portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in liver cirrhosis patients. After a 7-day treatment period, 60% of patients achieved full recanalization of the portal vein, with no significant side effects.
The detection and management of borderline hepatic nodules, particularly those hypointense in the HBP without APHE, are critical in preventing overt hepatocellular carcinoma progression. Advances in imaging technologies have improved detection and characterization of these nodules, leading to better patient prognosis.
Scientists from BIH and Open Targets mapped MASLD progression in humans, discovering a regenerative process driven by transdifferentiation. They identified key factors controlling this process, including insulin signalling, which could provide a therapeutic avenue for future development.
The study reviews various immunotherapies for HCC, including ICIs and cellular therapies, highlighting their potential in managing advanced disease and preventing recurrence. Emerging strategies like vaccine development and oncolytic virotherapy are also discussed.
Researchers have successfully grown functional human liver cells in a different species, offering a potential solution to the shortage of donor organs for liver transplants. The breakthrough uses interspecies blastocyst complementation to produce transplantable human liver cells, which can effectively mitigate chronic liver fibrosis.
Astragalus polysaccharide regulates VRC metabolism by increasing Bifidobacterium bifidum abundance and reducing inflammation in the liver. This leads to improved VRC metabolism, with high-dose APS showing stronger effects.
Researchers from VCU School of Medicine and Richmond VA Medical Center discover that replacing meat with plant-based proteins for one meal reduces harmful ammonia levels in people with advanced liver disease. The study found significant differences in blood and urine samples, revealing lower amino acids associated with ammonia production.
Liver cancer mortality in China decreased from 2008 to 2020, with higher rates among males, older adults, and rural populations. The study predicts a downward trend for liver cancer mortality in the next decade.
A new study reveals that chronic hepatitis B is globally undertreated, especially among women and Asian minorities in the West. The research highlights the need for targeted outreach to reduce new infections and deaths, with oral antiviral therapy being a lifesaving but underutilized treatment option.
A multicenter retrospective cohort study found that combining entecavir with Fuzheng Huayu reduced the cumulative incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with compensated chronic hepatitis B cirrhosis. The antifibrotic property of FZHY may be attributed to its beneficial effects on this population.
A revised classification of primary iron overload syndromes has been proposed based on the hepcidin25/ferroportin system, categorizing conditions into prehepatic, hepatic, and posthepatic forms. The new classification aims to improve diagnosis and treatment of these disorders.
This study explored the preventative role of baicalein in hepatopulmonary syndrome development. Baicalein improved survival rates, reduced angiogenic protein levels, and enhanced glucose homeostasis in HPS rats. It also attenuated pathological angiogenesis in the liver and lungs.
A new study from MIT researchers has found that many genes involved in drug metabolism follow a circadian rhythm, affecting how much of a drug is available and how effectively the body breaks it down. The study's findings have implications for developing better dosing schedules for existing drugs.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute discover that liver mitochondria adapt to food presence via nerve cells, leading to improved insulin sensitivity. This finding could pave the way for new type 2 diabetes treatments.
Research found that RAMP1 protects liver cells from damage caused by ischemia-reperfusion injury. The protein inhibited the ERK/YAP pathway, leading to reduced cell death and inflammation. This study highlights RAMP1's potential as a therapeutic target for treating this condition.
Studies found a negative relationship between HBV replication and liver inflammation in HBeAg-positive patients with high viral DNA levels, which shifted to positive relationships for those with low DNA levels or HBeAg-negative status. This interaction suggests a complex relationship between viral replication and liver damage progression.
Researchers discovered that liver cells secrete SAA proteins, which hinder T cell infiltration and attack tumors. Deleting SAA proteins increased survival times and likelihood of cures in mice with pancreatic tumors.
A new study by University of Waterloo researchers suggests that Canada will not reach the World Health Organization's goal of eliminating Hepatitis C by 2030. The main reason is the lack of harm-reduction strategies, which are crucial for reducing the transmission of the virus.
Researchers created a proteomics-based imaging mass cytometry marker panel to categorize immune cells at single-cell resolution, identifying unique signatures of active T-cell-mediated rejection. The study aims to find personalized immunosuppression therapies with fewer side effects.
The study found that decreasing LSECtin levels increases specific immune cells that contribute to disease progression, suggesting restoring these levels could restore altered liver functions. Researchers restored LSECtin activity in cirrhotic animal cells using anti-inflammatory mediators, proposing a potential therapeutic strategy.
Midlife mortality rates for deaths of despair, including suicide, overdose, and liver disease, vary by race and ethnicity, with higher rates among Black and American Indian/Alaska Native populations. Early mortality from drug- and alcohol-related causes contributes to these disparities.
A study found specific genetic mutations, including a previously reported mutation and a novel variant, linked to DJS. The mutations disrupt the liver's ability to eliminate waste products, leading to a buildup of bilirubin.
Researchers found that CMS121 reduced body weight gain by 40% and improved glucose and lipid indexes in aging mice. The compound also showed anti-inflammatory effects and increased mitochondrial biogenesis, suggesting potential therapeutic applications for metabolic diseases.
Researchers developed a nanosized polymer that selectively delivers chemotherapeutic drugs to blood vessels supporting tumor growth. The treatment eliminates colorectal cancer liver metastases and prolongs mice survival after a single dose-therapy.
Exosomes have emerged as potential treatments for liver fibrosis by targeting specific non-parenchymal cells involved in the disease process. They can deliver therapeutic cargo directly to these cells, inhibiting inflammation and scar formation.
Researchers will characterize initial environmental exposures and collect biospecimens and data from residents potentially impacted by the disaster. Investigators will evaluate biospecimens for early signs of liver dysfunction, detecting known liver carcinogen vinyl chloride.
Researchers found that low-dose aspirin reduced liver fat content by 10.2% compared to placebo in a phase 2 trial of 80 adults with MASLD. Aspirin also improved markers of liver health, suggesting potential benefits for patients with this condition.
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University suggest that selecting an OTC medication for mild COVID-19 symptoms should be based on the entire benefit-to-risk profile of the patient. They caution against using traditional NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen due to their similar but greater side effect profiles compared to aspirin.
Researchers have developed a new, non-invasive technique called spleen stiffness measurement (SSM) to diagnose portal hypertension (PHT), a severe complication of chronic liver disease. SSM uses sound waves to assess the stiffness of the spleen and shows promise as an accurate and comfortable alternative to invasive procedures.
The study reveals that a gene called mTOR, which works like a GPS, directs the specialization of liver cells according to their position. After birth, the fluctuation in nutrient supply triggers the activation of this gene, completing the maturation of the liver.
Researchers have identified a gene responsible for the development of starvation-induced fatty liver in cavefish, which are able to protect their liver due to reduced fat accumulation. This genetic basis has implications for understanding and addressing liver conditions in humans, including Type 2 diabetes and obesity.
Research reveals a dynamic pattern of gene expression in liver fibrosis, with persistent effects even during regression. The study identifies key 'hub' genes that could be developed into biomarkers for future therapies.
A potentially fatal parasite has been discovered in the Colorado River in California, affecting dogs and causing liver and intestinal illness. Researchers confirm the presence of Heterobilharzia americana, a flatworm that can be transmitted through snails and water, highlighting the need for awareness and precautions among dog owners.
Scientists have successfully tested novel gene therapies in a whole human liver, opening up new avenues for treating life-threatening inherited diseases. The use of a normothermic liver perfusion system enables accurate testing of gene therapeutics directly in the clinical target organ.
Researchers found that Kupffer cells in liver respond to high cholesterol by removing excess, revealing the liver's role in regulating cholesterol levels. This discovery suggests atherosclerosis is a systemic disease affecting multiple organs.
A total of 736 ACLF patients were included in the study, with 54.6% experiencing extrahepatic organ failure (EHOF). MEHOF or SEHOF with brain failure indicated a worse prognosis. Risk stratification using EHOF characteristics effectively differentiated patients with different mortality risks.
The study found that Mancozeb exposure leads to increased reactive oxygen species, redox imbalance, and liver biomarker elevation. XBP1s and NOX4 gene expression is also upregulated in response to MZ toxicity, indicating potential for early bio-indicators of endoplasmic reticulum stress.
Researchers at Iowa State University have created a lab-grown liver organoid from turtles, enabling faster study of their unique adaptations with potential medical applications. The organoids mimic the liver's role in helping turtles survive extreme cold and oxygen deprivation.
The study analyzed cirrhosis mortality data from 2008 to 2020 in China, revealing a declining trend with exceptions for males aged 50-59 years, females aged 45-49 and 80-84 years. Greater mortality burdens were observed in males, older individuals, and rural areas
A team of scientists at The Hospital for Sick Children developed an innovative statistical approach to demonstrate the effectiveness of a medication in reducing disease progression and liver transplants in children with Alagille syndrome. Using data from an international real-world cohort, they found a 70% improvement in event-free sur...
Researchers found that obesity increases allosteric regulation during feeding and decreases it when fasting in mice livers. This disruption may lead to metabolic disorders like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and Type 2 diabetes.
Researchers analyzed tissue and fecal samples from 90 stranded marine mammals to study the distribution of toxic elements. The study found that Risso's dolphins and short-finned pilot whales had high concentrations of mercury, cadmium, and lead, while dwarf sperm whales had low levels.
A study by UC Davis Health found that a single dose of BCG reduced liver tumor burden and extended the survival of mice with liver cancer. The vaccine boosted the body's immunity, leading to tumor shrinkage and improved liver function.
A University of Sydney study sheds light on the 2022 child hepatitis outbreak, finding that 'helper virus' infections were likely the cause. The study reveals that over 3,000 cases were reported globally, with six percent requiring liver transplants.
Researchers discovered that blocking efferocytosis pathway prevents immunosuppressive activity in macrophages, restoring T cell activation and reducing metastatic tumour burden. The study found PDAC metastases to show high levels of immunosuppressive macrophages, promoting tumour growth.
A CHLA research team found that socio-economic factors like family support, employment status, patient age, race, and language spoken can impact clinical outcomes. Children with limited social support systems and working caregivers have worse outcomes.
Researchers identified blood proteomic markers associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in patients with cirrhosis. The study found a set of biomarkers, including TGF-β driven mechanistic biomarkers and Myostatin and Pyruvate Kinase M2, which may stratify risk for HCC.
A small, wearable ultrasound sticker can monitor organ stiffness and detect subtle changes that signal disease progression. The device has been shown to identify early signs of acute liver failure in rats and may one day help doctors diagnose internal organ failure more effectively.
A recent study published in Hepatology has investigated the connection between platelet function and complications in patients with cirrhosis. The researchers found that decreased platelet activation predicts hepatic decompensation and mortality, highlighting the importance of personalized therapeutic approaches.
Korea University researchers found that perioperative radiotherapy significantly improves survival rates among HCC patients at high risk of recurrence. The study suggests that radiotherapy can reduce recurrence and improve survival in these patients, providing a significant adjuvant treatment option.
Researchers at Karolinska Institutet developed a method to study liver function and disease using the cornea of mice eyes. They transplanted liver cells into the eyes, creating a non-invasive platform to monitor liver health over time.
A study from VCU School of Medicine and Richmond VA Medical Center found that up to 10.3% of veterans with dementia have high FIB-4 scores, indicating a likelihood of cirrhosis. Early detection and targeted interventions can reverse cognitive decline in these patients.
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that liver biopsy was essential to making the correct diagnosis in over a third of cases. Biopsy was particularly valuable in diagnosing autoimmune hepatitis and was also used to diagnose liver fibrosis more than two-thirds of the time.
A recent study by University of Missouri researcher Mansoo Yu found that online weight loss interventions with counseling and social support are effective for middle-aged adults with obesity. The study identified two key features: professional health coaching and access to social support from other users, which led to significant long-...
A nationwide study from Karolinska Institutet found that GLP1 agonists like Ozempic reduce the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer in people with type 2 diabetes and chronic liver disease. Those who continued taking the medication for ten years were half as likely to develop severe liver disease.
Researchers have developed a novel sequential ultrasound molecular imaging (USMI) approach to identify non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), offering a potential noninvasive diagnostic tool. The method uses microbubbles targeting CD36 and ICAM-1 to visualize hepatic steatosis and inflammation.