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Diseases (Basel, Switzerland) Mar 2024Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a major cause of chronic liver disease. This term covers a broad spectrum of liver lesions, from simple steatosis to alcoholic hepatitis... (Review)
Review
Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a major cause of chronic liver disease. This term covers a broad spectrum of liver lesions, from simple steatosis to alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis. The pathogenesis of ALD is multifactorial and not fully elucidated due to complex mechanisms related to direct ethanol toxicity with subsequent hepatic and systemic inflammation. The accumulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the reduction of anti-inflammatory cytokines promote the development and progression of ALD. To date, there are no targeted therapies to counter the progression of chronic alcohol-related liver disease and prevent acute liver failure. Corticosteroids reduce mortality by acting on the hepatic-systemic inflammation. On the other hand, several studies analyzed the effect of inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and stimulating anti-inflammatory cytokines as potential therapeutic targets in ALD. This narrative review aims to clarify the role of the main cytokines involved in the pathogenesis and treatment of ALD.
PubMed: 38667527
DOI: 10.3390/diseases12040069 -
Sheng Li Xue Bao : [Acta Physiologica... Apr 2024Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a major global health burden in terms of growing morbidity and mortality. Although many conditions can cause CLD, leading to cirrhosis and... (Review)
Review
Chronic liver disease (CLD) is a major global health burden in terms of growing morbidity and mortality. Although many conditions can cause CLD, leading to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury (DILI), alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are the most common culprits. Prostaglandin E (PGE), produced in the liver, is an important lipid mediator derived from the ω-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid, arachidonic acid, and plays a critical role in hepatic homeostasis. The physiological effects of PGE are mediated through four classes of E-type prostaglandin (EP) receptors, namely EP1, EP2, EP3 and EP4. In recent years, an increasing number of studies has been done to clarify the effects of PGE and EP receptors in regulating liver function and the pathogenesis of CLD to create a new potential clinical impact. In this review, we overview the biosynthesis and regulation of PGE and discuss the role of its synthesizing enzymes and receptors in the maintenance of normal liver function and the development and progress of CLD. We also discuss the potential of the PGE-EP receptors system in treating CLD with various etiologies.
Topics: Humans; Dinoprostone; Receptors, Prostaglandin E; Liver Diseases; Chronic Disease; Animals; Liver; Liver Diseases, Alcoholic; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
PubMed: 38658381
DOI: No ID Found -
Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy =... Jun 2024Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a leading factor of liver-related death worldwide. ALD has various manifestations that include steatosis, hepatitis, and...
Alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is a leading factor of liver-related death worldwide. ALD has various manifestations that include steatosis, hepatitis, and cirrhosis and is currently without approved pharmacotherapies. The Src homology phosphatase 2 (Shp2) is a drug target in some cancers due to its positive regulation of Ras-mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling and cell proliferation. Shp2 pharmacological inhibition yields beneficial outcomes in animal disease models, but its impact on ALD remains unexplored. This study aims to investigate the effects of Shp2 inhibition and its validity using a preclinical mouse model of ALD. We report that the administration of SHP099, a potent and selective allosteric inhibitor of Shp2, partially ameliorated ethanol-induced hepatic injury, inflammation, and steatosis in mice. Additionally, Shp2 inhibition was associated with reduced ethanol-evoked activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), oxidative, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in the liver. Besides the liver, excessive alcohol consumption induces multi-organ injury and dysfunction, including the intestine. Notably, Shp2 inhibition diminished ethanol-induced intestinal inflammation and permeability, abrogated the reduction in tight junction protein expression, and the activation of ERK and stress signaling in the ileum. Collectively, Shp2 pharmacological inhibition mitigates the deleterious effects of ethanol in the liver and intestine in a mouse model of ALD. Given the multifactorial aspects underlying ALD pathogenesis, additional studies are needed to decipher the utility of Shp2 inhibition alone or as a component in a multitherapeutic regimen to combat this deadly malady.
Topics: Animals; Disease Models, Animal; Liver Diseases, Alcoholic; Mice; Male; Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase, Non-Receptor Type 11; Ethanol; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Liver; Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress; Oxidative Stress
PubMed: 38653109
DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116590 -
Journal of Inflammation Research 2024This research aimed to explore the involvement of interleukins (IL) - IL-6, IL-17, IL-21, and IL-23 - in the evolution and diagnosis of non-alcoholic liver fibrosis and...
OBJECTIVE
This research aimed to explore the involvement of interleukins (IL) - IL-6, IL-17, IL-21, and IL-23 - in the evolution and diagnosis of non-alcoholic liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.
METHODS
The study subjects were selected from the patients who visited the Department of Hepatology of X Hospital in Y City from August 2021 to April 2023. Peripheral blood samples were collected. All participants were divided into liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, hepatitis, and healthy subjects four groups. IL-21, IL-17, IL23, IL-6 were detected by double antibody sandwich.
RESULTS
The results showed that there was a significant difference in the levels of IL-17, IL-21, and IL-23 among the 4 groups (P<0.0001). ROC curve analysis showed that the AUC values of IL-17, IL-21 and liver fiber 4 items were >0.70, suggesting that the diagnostic efficacy of IL-17, IL-21 was similar to that of liver fiber 4 items. Spearman correlation analysis showed that IL-17 had a positive correlation with collagen type III N-peptide, type IV collagen, and Laminin (P < 0.05), and no correlation with Hyaluronic acid (P > 0.05).
CONCLUSION
IL-17, IL-21, and IL-23 play a pivotal role in the inflammatory pathways associated with liver injuries, establishing themselves as potent auxiliary diagnostic markers in identifying liver fibrosis and cirrhosis.
PubMed: 38651006
DOI: 10.2147/JIR.S452061 -
Scientific Reports Apr 2024Due to the comprehensive hepatitis B virus vaccination program in Taiwan since 1986, the development of antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B and chronic hepatitis C...
Due to the comprehensive hepatitis B virus vaccination program in Taiwan since 1986, the development of antiviral therapy for chronic hepatitis B and chronic hepatitis C infection and covered by National health insurance. Besides, the increased prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and currently, approved therapy for NAFLD remain developing. The etiology of liver-related diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma required reinterpretation. This study aimed to analyze the incidence and outcome of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) due to viral (hepatitis B and hepatitis C) infection compared to that of nonviral etiology. We retrospectively analyzed patients with HCC from January 2011 to December 2020 from the cancer registry at our institution. Viral-related hepatitis was defined as hepatitis B surface antigen positivity or anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) antibody positivity. A total of 2748 patients with HCC were enrolled, of which 2188 had viral-related HCC and 560 had nonviral-related HCC. In viral HCC group, the median age at diagnosis was significantly lower (65 years versus 71 years, p < 0.001), and the prevalence of early-stage HCC, including stage 0 and stage A Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer, was significantly higher (52.9% versus 33.6%, p < 0.001). In nonviral HCC group, alcohol use was more common (39.9% versus 30.1%, p < 0.001), the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) was higher (54.5% versus 35.1%, p < 0.001), and obesity was common (25.0% versus 20.5%, p = 0.026). The prevalence of nonviral HCC increased significantly from 19.2 to 19.3% and 23.0% in the last 10 years (p = 0.046). Overall survival was better in the viral HCC group (5.95 years versus 4.00 years, p < 0.001). In the early stage of HCC, overall survival was still better in the viral HCC group (p < 0.001). The prevalence of nonviral HCC has significantly increased in the last ten years. The overall survival was significantly lower in the nonviral HCC, perhaps because the rate of early HCC detection is lower in nonviral HCC and anti-viral therapy. To detect nonviral HCC early, we should evaluate liver fibrosis in high-risk groups (including people with obesity or T2DM with NAFLD/NASH and alcoholic liver disease) and regular follow-up for those with liver fibrosis, regardless of cirrhosis.
Topics: Humans; Aged; Carcinoma, Hepatocellular; Liver Neoplasms; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; Retrospective Studies; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2; Prevalence; Hepatitis C; Liver Cirrhosis; Obesity
PubMed: 38643245
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-59668-2 -
Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin May 2024Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a subtype of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) characterized by hepatic steatosis and evidence of hepatocyte injury...
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a subtype of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) characterized by hepatic steatosis and evidence of hepatocyte injury (ballooning) and inflammation, with or without liver fibrosis. In this study, after 12 weeks of induction, the mice were treated with emodin succinyl ethyl ester (ESEE) for four weeks at doses of 10/30/90 mg/kg/d. The blood analysis of experimental endpoints showed that ESEE exhibited significant therapeutic effects on the progression of disorders of glycolipid metabolism and the induced liver injury in the model animals. Histopathological diagnosis of the liver and total triglyceride measurements revealed that ESEE had a significant therapeutic effect on the histopathological features of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease/hepatitis, such as cellular steatosis and activation of intrahepatic inflammation. Additionally, ESEE was able to improve hepatocyte fat deposition, steatosis, and the course of intrahepatic inflammatory activity. Furthermore, it showed some inhibitory effect on liver fibrosis in the model animals. In summary, this study confirms the therapeutic effects of ESEE on the NAFLD/NASH model in C57BL/6J mice induced by a high-fat, high cholesterol, and fructose diet. These effects were observed through improvements in liver function, inhibition of fibrosis, and inflammatory responses. Changes in blood glucose levels, blood lipid metabolism, liver histopathological staining, liver fibrosis staining, and related pathological scores further supported the therapeutic effects of ESEE. Therefore, this study has important implications for the exploration of novel drugs for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Topics: Animals; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; Fructose; Male; Mice, Inbred C57BL; Emodin; Liver; Diet, High-Fat; Mice; Triglycerides; Cholesterol; Disease Models, Animal; Blood Glucose
PubMed: 38631865
DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b23-00903 -
International Ophthalmology Apr 2024This review examined existing literature to determine various ocular manifestations of liver pathologies, with a focus on metabolic deficiencies as well as viral and... (Review)
Review
PURPOSE
This review examined existing literature to determine various ocular manifestations of liver pathologies, with a focus on metabolic deficiencies as well as viral and immune liver conditions.
METHODS
Recent data were compiled from PubMed from 2000 to 2020 using keywords that were relevant to the assessed pathologies. Ocular presentations of several liver pathologies were researched and then summarized in a comprehensive form.
RESULTS
Several ocular manifestations of liver disease were related to vitamin A deficiency, as liver disease is associated with impaired vitamin A homeostasis. Alcoholic liver cirrhosis can result in vitamin A deficiency, presenting with Bitot spots, xerosis, and corneal necrosis. Congenital liver diseases such as mucopolysaccharidoses and peroxisomal disorders are also linked with ocular signs. Viral causes of liver disease have associations with conditions like retinal vasculitis, keratoconjunctivitis sicca, retinopathies, Mooren's ulcer, and Sjogren's syndrome. Autoimmune hepatitis has been linked to peripheral ulcerative keratitis and uveitis.
CONCLUSIONS
Building strong associations between ocular and liver pathology will allow for early detection of such conditions, leading to the early implementation of management strategies. While this review outlines several of the existing connections between hepatic and ophthalmic disease, further research is needed in the area in order to strengthen these associations.
Topics: Humans; Vitamin A Deficiency; Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca; Corneal Ulcer; Sjogren's Syndrome; Dry Eye Syndromes; Liver Diseases; Retinal Vasculitis
PubMed: 38622271
DOI: 10.1007/s10792-024-03103-y -
World Journal of Virology Mar 2024Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection poses a global health concern without a definitive cure; however, antiviral medications can effectively suppress viral replication....
Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection poses a global health concern without a definitive cure; however, antiviral medications can effectively suppress viral replication. This study delves into the intricate interplay between lipid metabolism and HBV replication, implicating molecular mechanisms such as the stearoyl coenzyme A desaturase 1 autophagy pathway, SAC1-like phosphatidylinositol phosphatase, and galectin-9 mediated selective autophagy of viral core proteins in regulating HBV replication. Within lipid droplets, perilipin 2 (PLIN2) emerges as a pivotal guardian, with its overexpression protecting against autophagy and downregulation stimulating triglyceride catabolism through the autophagy pathway. This editorial discusses the correlation between hepatic steatosis and HBV replication, emphasizing the role of PLIN2 in this process. The study underscores the multifaceted roles of lipid metabolism, autophagy, and perilipins in HBV replication, shedding light on potential therapeutic avenues.
PubMed: 38616854
DOI: 10.5501/wjv.v13.i1.90384 -
International Journal of Molecular... Mar 2024The objective of this study was to investigate gut dysbiosis and its metabolic and inflammatory implications in pediatric metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver...
The objective of this study was to investigate gut dysbiosis and its metabolic and inflammatory implications in pediatric metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). This study included 105 children and utilized anthropometric measurements, blood tests, the Ultrasound Fatty Liver Index, and fecal DNA sequencing to assess the relationship between gut microbiota and pediatric MAFLD. Notable decreases in spp., spp., spp., and spp. were found in the MAFLD group. spp. was particularly reduced in children with MAFLD and hepatitis compared to controls. Both MAFLD groups showed a reduction in flavone and flavonol biosynthesis sequences. spp. correlated positively with flavone and flavonol biosynthesis and negatively with insulin levels and insulin resistance. Body weight, body mass index (BMI), and total cholesterol levels were inversely correlated with flavone and flavonol biosynthesis. Reduced spp. in children with MAFLD may exacerbate insulin resistance and inflammation through reduced flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, offering potential therapeutic targets.
Topics: Humans; Child; Insulin Resistance; Clostridiales; Flavones; Hepatitis A; Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease; Flavonols
PubMed: 38612453
DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073640 -
Frontiers in Medicine 2024Excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components within the liver leads to a pathological condition known as liver fibrosis. Alcohol abuse, non-alcoholic... (Review)
Review
Excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components within the liver leads to a pathological condition known as liver fibrosis. Alcohol abuse, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), autoimmune issues, and viral hepatitis cause chronic liver injury. Exploring potential therapeutic targets and understanding the molecular mechanisms involved in liver fibrosis are essential for the development of effective interventions. The goal of this comprehensive review is to explain how the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway contributes to the reduction of liver fibrosis. The potential of this pathway as a therapeutic target is investigated through a summary of results from and studies. Studies focusing on PI3K/AKT activation have shown a significant decrease in fibrosis markers and a significant improvement in liver function. The review emphasizes how this pathway may prevent ECM synthesis and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation, ultimately reducing the fibrotic response. The specific mechanisms and downstream effectors of the PI3K/AKT pathway in liver fibrosis constitute a rapidly developing field of study. In conclusion, the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway plays a significant role in attenuating liver fibrosis. Its complex role in regulating HSC activation and ECM production, demonstrated both and , underscores its potential as a effective therapeutic approach for managing liver fibrosis and slowing disease progression. A comprehensive review of this field provides valuable insights into its future developments and implications for clinical applications.
PubMed: 38590313
DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1389329