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Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD), a persistent liver condition associated with metabolic syndrome, is primarily caused by excessive fructose intake and a typical Western diet. Because there is currently only one approved treatment, lifestyle and dietary interventions are crucial. This study assessed the effects of dietary intervention involving freeze-dried plum (FDP), a natural source of antioxidants containing diverse polyphenols. This study aimed to assess its potential as a protective agent against the gut–liver axis and its therapeutic effects on liver injury and gut permeability issues associated with MASLD. We indicate that 10% FDP intake restored gut barrier proteins and reduced serum endotoxin levels in the MASLD mouse models. Additionally, 10% FDP intake significantly reduced hepatic oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, and fibrosis marker levels. Interestingly, FDP intake significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α and markers of liver damage, such as serum alanine aminotransferase/aspartate aminotransferase and hepatic triglycerides. These results highlight that dietary intervention with FDP that acts as a natural antioxidant may be a significant protective and therapeutic agent against liver and gut damage caused by MASLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cystathionine gamma-lyase (CSE) is a key enzyme in reverse transsulfuration pathway and contributes to the majority of H 2 S generation in liver tissues via cysteine metabolism. Dysfunction of the CSE/H 2 S system is linked to both chronic and acute liver damage. This study investigated the regulatory role of CSE deficiency on diethylnitrosamine (DEN)-induced liver damage in mice. A single injection of DEN was administered into 4-week-old male CSE knockout (CSE-KO) mice and wild-type (WT) littermates, and the mice were sacrificed at 28 weeks of age. Compared to age-matched WT mice, CSE-KO mice spontaneously developed steatosis with increased oxidative stress and higher expressions of inflammation and fibrosis-related genes at 28-weeks of age. Following DEN injection, CSE-KO mice experienced more severe liver damage in comparison with the WT group as reflected by elevated levels of lipid accumulation, increased activities of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase, higher oxidative stress and fibrosis development, and increased expressions of inflammation and fibrosis-related genes. No visible tumors were observed in both types of mice with DEN treatment. In addition, the expression levels of the three H 2 S-generating proteins (CSE, cystathionine beta-synthase, and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase) and the H 2 S production rate in liver tissues were unaffected by DEN. Taken together, our study demonstrates that CSE provides a significant hepatoprotective effect and deficiency of CSE exaggerates DEN-induced liver damage in mice. Based on these findings, it can be suggested that targeting the CSE/H 2 S signaling pathway could be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of liver diseases. • Older CSE-KO mice spontaneously developed steatosis with increased oxidative stress. • CSE deficiency exaggerates diethylnitrosamine-induced liver damage in mice. • Diethylnitrosamine does not affect H 2 S signals in mouse liver. • CSE/H 2 S system would be a target for treating liver diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alhagi-honey (AH) is a well-established traditional ethnic medicine with advantageous effects against diarrhea and headaches. We aimed to explore the preventive effect of AH on liver damage induced by heat stress (HS) and its underlying mechanism. HS models were established by thermostat, and mice were treated at 39 ℃ for 10 h, lasting for 7 days. Hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) staining and Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) staining were used for histological observation, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used for ultrastructure examination of hepatocytes. Gut microbiota (GM) composition and liver metabolites were respectively analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabolome sequencing. AH pretreatment alleviated liver damage caused by heat stress in mice. The main manifestation was that AH alleviated serum aspartate transferase (AST) and aspartate transaminase (ALT). It was found that AH improved symptoms of hepatocyte damage. In addition, the relative abundance of f_Rikenellaceae, g_Incertae_Sedis and s_Staphylococcus_Orisratti, g_Lachnoclostridium, g_GCA-900066575, and s_Alistipes_inops were modified by AH and these bacterial genera showed association with 6 metabolites (2- (3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) acetamide, 3-hydroxy-3-methylpentanedioic acid, PC (17:0/17:1), Y-L-Glutamy-L-glutamic acid, L-Isoleucine, 5-Methyluridine, 8,8-dimethyl-2-phenyl-4H,8H-pyrano [2, 3-h] chromen-4-one). The Pearson analysis also showed a strong correlation between these microbes and 2 risk indicators (AST and ALT) of liver damage. AH alleviated HS-induced liver damage by regulating liver metabolism and maintaining normal GM. It demonstrated that AH held potential as a prophylactic drug for the prevention of HS-induced liver damage. Highlights: AH can prevent heat stress-induced liver damage. AH regulated gut bacterial abundance to promote the production of beneficial metabolites. AH can prevent heat stress-induced liver damage and its complications as a dietary additive/natural medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver damage and metabolic dysfunctions, the defining features of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), are marked by inflammation, oxidative stress, and excessive hepatic fat accumulation. The current therapeutic approaches for NAFLD are limited, necessitating exploring novel treatment strategies. Dioxopiperidinamide derivatives, particularly DOPA‐33, have shown effective anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties, potentially offering therapeutic benefits against NAFLD. This study investigated the combined potential of vitamin D3 (Vit D3) and DOPA‐33 in treating NAFLD. The network pharmacology analysis identified key NAFLD targets modulated by Vit D3 and DOPA‐33, emphasizing their potential mechanisms of action. In NAFLD‐induced zebrafish models, Vit D3 and DOPA‐33 significantly reduced hepatic lipid accumulation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis, demonstrating superior efficacy over individual treatments. The treatment also lowered reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, decreased liver damage, and enhanced antioxidant defense mechanisms. Moreover, behavioral analyses showed improved locomotion and reduced weight gain in treated zebrafish. Biochemical analyses revealed lower triglycerides (TG) and glucose levels with improved oxidative markers. Furthermore, histological analyses indicated reduced hepatic steatosis and inflammation, with decreased expression of lipogenesis‐related genes and inflammatory mediators. Finally, high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) confirmed a significant reduction in hepatic cholesterol levels, indicating the effectiveness of the combination therapy in addressing key NAFLD‐related dyslipidemias. These findings suggest that Vit D3 + DOPA‐33 targets pathways involved in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and oxidative stress by offering a promising therapeutic approach for NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the protective effects of chlorogenic acid (CGA) on production performance and liver function of rabbits under heat stress (HS) condition. A total of 120 healthy New Zealand weaned rabbits with similar initial body weight, were randomly divided into 3 treatments with 20 replicates per treatment and 2 weaned rabbits per replicate: control (CON) group (rabbits were housed at 25 ± 1°C and fed a basal diet), HS group (rabbits were housed at 35 ± 1°C and fed a basal diet), and HS + CGA group (rabbits were housed at 35 ± 1°C and fed a basal diet supplemented with 800 mg/kg CGA). The trial lasted for 28 days. The results showed that HS challenge decreased (p < 0.05) growth performance, induced oxidative stress and hepatic apoptosis, and caused liver damage in rabbits. However, dietary CGA supplementation increased (p < 0.05) body weight gain and feed efficiency, and enhanced (p < 0.05) antioxidative capacity in serum and liver in HS‐challenged rabbits; attenuated HS‐induced increases in urea nitrogen (p = 0.03), alanine aminotransferase (p = 0.03), aspartate aminotransferase (p = 0.01), caspase‐8 (p = 0.02), and caspase‐3 (p = 0.04) as well as decrease albumin (p = 0.04). Moreover, supplementation with CGA upregulated Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway‐related genes expressions, including Nrf2 (p = 0.009), HO‐1 (p = 0.03) and SOD1 (p = 0.04) in HS‐challenged rabbits. Our findings demonstrated that dietary CGA supplementation could alleviate HS‐induced decline in growth performance, and protect against HS‐induced liver damage partially through enhancing antioxidant capacity via acting Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway and inhibiting hepatic apoptosis in rabbits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microcystin-LR (MC-LR), frequently generated by cyanobacteria, has been demonstrated to raise the likelihood of liver disease. Few previous studies have explored the potential antagonist against MC-LR. Astaxanthin (ASX) has been shown to possess various beneficial effects in regulating lipid metabolism in the liver. However, whether ASX could alleviate MC-LR-induced hepatic lipid metabolic dysregulation is as yet unclear. In this work, the important roles and mechanisms of ASX in countering MC-LR-induced liver damage and lipid metabolic dysregulation were explored for the first time. The findings revealed that ASX not only prevented weight loss but also enhanced liver health after MC-LR exposure. Moreover, ASX effectively decreased triglyceride, total cholesterol, aspartate transaminase, and alanine aminotransferase contents in mice that were elevated by MC-LR. Histological observation showed that ASX significantly alleviated lipid accumulation and inflammation induced by MC-LR. Mechanically, ASX could significantly diminish the expression of genes responsible for lipid generation (Srebp-1c, Fasn, Cd36, Scd1, Dgat1, and Pparg), which probably reduced lipid accumulation induced by MC-LR. Analogously, MC-LR increased intracellular lipid deposition in THLE-3 cells, while ASX decreased these symptoms by down-regulating the expression of key genes in the lipid synthesis pathway. Our results implied that ASX played a crucial part in lipid synthesis and effectively alleviated MC-LR-induced lipid metabolism dysregulation. ASX might be developed as a novel protectant against hepatic impairment and lipid metabolic dysregulation associated with MC-LR. This study offers new insights for further management of MC-LR-related metabolic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Topiramate (TPM), a carbonic anhydrase (CA) inhibitor, is known for its anti-obesity effect. Even though, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is present in 80% of obese patients, TPM's effects on oxidant-antioxidant parameters and CA activity on fatty liver is not known. 24 Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups: control, TPM, diet, and diet + TPM. Diet groups fed with high-fat diet while control and TPM groups received standard chow for six weeks. Than 100 mg/kg/day TPM (po) was added to TPM groups for 21 days. Rats' weight and blood glucose levels were monitored weekly, and at the end of the study liver removed for biochemical and histological analysis. TPM eliminated the increases in weight and blood glucose levels caused by high-fat diet. TPM decreased CA activity in all groups. MDA levels increased significantly in TPM and DT groups (p = 0.004; p = 0.008). GSH levels were decreased in the TPM, D and DT groups (p = 0.004; p = 0.015; p = 0.003). Similarly, GPx activity levels were significantly decreased in all groups. Histological evaluation revealed notable infiltration, eosinophilia and cytoplasmic vacuolization in the TPM group. Steatosis and NAFLD activity score (NAS) were higher in the diet group. Ballooning, infiltration and NAS were higher in the diet + TPM group compared to control. CA activity negatively correlated with MDA (p < 0.001), and positively correlated with GSH (p < 0.001). TPM caused oxidant stress and liver damage, which are exacerbated in NAFLD induced rats. Therefore, use of TPM in patients with liver disease should be considered very carefully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the environmental pollution caused by microplastics (MPs) has attracted extensive attention. Numerous studies have shown that MPs could cause liver damage in aquatic animals. However, there is a limited range of technical approaches available to mitigate and minimize the detrimental impact of MPs on both wild fish populations and aquaculture operations. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the impact of dietary chitosan supplementation on the prevention and treatment of liver damage induced by exposure to polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs) in Nile tilapia (Oreochromisniloticus). The results indicated that after two weeks of exposure, the liver of tilapia showed oxidative stress, inflammatory response and fibrosis. Meanwhile, after the chitosan addition, the oxidative stress, inflammatory response and fibrosis of tilapia liver were reversed, the pyroptosis and ferroptosis in tilapia liver were inhibited, the combination of mitochondria with PS-MPs in tilapia liver cells was inhibited, and the mitochondrial damage was reversed. In summary, the study confirmed the potential prophylaxis and treatment effect of dietary chitosan supplementation on PS-MPs exposure-induced liver damage in tilapia, and provided basic data for further studies on prophylaxis and treatment of the toxic effects of MPs. This study also presented efficacious strategies for alleviating the deleterious impacts of MPs on fish farming, thereby fostering sustainable and eco-friendly approaches in aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Thalassemia is a hemoglobin synthesis disorder that causes patients to need lifelong blood transfusions, leading to iron overload and alter organ function, including the liver. Hepcidin, produced by the liver, plays a role in iron homeostasis and should be increased in excess iron stores. However, the level decreases in thalassemia due to some factors, such as ineffective erythropoiesis and liver damage. Recent publications revealed that hepcidin could be associated with iron overload and also a marker of liver diseases. Objective: To analyse the correlation between hepcidin level, markers of iron overload, and liver damage in β-thalassemia major. Methods: This cross-sectional study included all β-thalassemia major age 2-18 years admitted to Dr. Mohammad Hoesin Hospital, Palembang, South Sumatera, who underwent blood transfusions from March to August 2022. We measured the level of iron overload markers, hepcidin, liver function test (LFT), and performed liver ultrasonography (USG). Results: Of 97 subjects, median hepcidin level was 10.01 ng/mL and 68% of the subjects showed a decrease. The iron overload parameters were evaluated from serum iron levels (P=0.13), ferritin levels (P=0.90), and transferrin saturation (P=0.29) and 24.7% had abnormal liver USG findings. Spearman's correlation revealed that only direct bilirubin (DB) (r=0.35; P=0.001) and liver USG (r=0.20; P=0.05) had positive correlations with decreased levels of hepcidin. Also, it had 91.7% sensitivity in predicting liver damage from ultrasound. Conclusion: The hepcidin level was not significantly associated with iron overload markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic arsenic poisoning is a public health problem worldwide. In addition to skin lesions, the detrimental effect of arsenic poisoning on liver damage is one of the major issues. Our previous studies demonstrated that endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and p53 were associated with arsenic-induced liver damage. Literature has shown that EI24 is involved in hepatocyte hypertrophy; however, the underlying role and mechanism in arsenic-induced liver damage have not been fully elucidated. In this study, we explored the role of ER stress, p53, and EI24 as well as the regulatory relationship in arsenic poisoning populations and L-02 cells treated with distinct concentration NaAsO2 (2.5, 5, 10, and 20 μM). Results showed that as with arsenic dose increment, expression levels of ER stress key proteins GRP78, ATF4, and CHOP were significantly enhanced. Additionally, p53 expression in nucleus, p53 phosphorylation at Ser15 and Ser1392, and p53 acetylation at lys382 were significantly increased in NaAsO2-treated L-02 cells. ER stress inhibitor 4-phenylbutyric acid (4-PBA) decreased the expression of p53 phosphorylation at Ser 392, p53 acetylation at lys382, and p53 expression in nucleus. Additionally, in 5 μM NaAsO2 condition, p53 inhibitor pifithrin-α (PFT-α) aggravated 5 μM NaAsO2-induced GRP78, ATF4, and CHOP expressions, cell apoptosis, and protein-SH consumption. But in 20 μM NaAsO2 condition, PFT-α attenuated NaAsO2-induced cell apoptosis. Further results showed that 20 μM NaAsO2 facilitated translocation of EI24 from ER to mitochondrion and interaction with VDAC2, leading to activate mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, but not observed in the 5-μM NaAsO2 group. Moreover, PFT-α and 4-PBA inhibited 20 μM NaAsO2-induced EI24 expression in mitochondrion. Collectively, our results indicated that arsenic induced p53 activation via ER stress, under relatively low NaAsO2 concentration, NaAsO2-triggered p53 activation protected cells from apoptosis by alleviating ER stress. Another finding was that under relatively high NaAsO2 concentration, NaAsO2-activated p53 facilitated EI24 mitochondrial translocation and caused mitochondrial permeability increase, which represented a switch of p53 from a benefit role to pro-apoptosis function in NaAsO2-treated cells. The study contributed to in-depth understanding the mechanism of arsenic-induced liver damage and providing potential clues for following study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundThe purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between preoperative aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) and postoperative complications following total hip arthroplasty (THA).MethodsAll THA for osteoarthritis patients from 2007 to 2020 within the American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database were included in this study. Subjects were subsequently divided into cohorts based on APRI. Four groups, including normal range, some liver damage, significant fibrosis, and cirrhosis groups, were created. Comparisons between groups were made for demographics, past medical history, and rate of major and minor complications. Other outcomes included readmission, reoperation, discharge destination, mortality, periprosthetic fracture, and postoperative hip dislocation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the role of preoperative APRI in predicting adverse outcomes. Statistical significance was set at p

Background Thalassemia is a hemoglobin synthesis disorder that causes patients to need lifelong blood transfusions, leading to iron overload and alter organ function, including the liver. Hepcidin, produced by the liver, plays a role in iron homeostasis and should be increased in excess iron stores. However, the level decreases in thalassemia due to some factors, such as ineffective erythropoiesis and liver damage. Recent publications revealed that hepcidin could be associated with iron overload and also a marker of liver diseases. Objective To analyse the correlation between hepcidin level, markers of iron overload, and liver damage in beta-thalassemia major. Methods This cross-sectional study included all ?-thalassemia major age 2-18 years admitted to Dr. Mohammad Hoesin Hospital, Palembang, South Sumatera, who underwent blood transfusions from March to August 2022. We measured the level of iron overload markers, hepcidin, liver function test (LFT), and performed liver ultrasonography (USG). Results Of 97 subjects, median hepcidin level was 10.01 ng/mL and 68% of the subjects showed a decrease. The iron overload parameters were evaluated from serum iron levels (P=0.13), ferritin levels (P=0.90), and transferrin saturation (P=0.29) and 24.7% had abnormal liver USG findings. Spearman’s correlation revealed that only direct bilirubin (DB) (r=0.35; P=0.001) and liver USG (r=0.20; P=0.05) had positive correlations with decreased levels of hepcidin. Also, it had 91.7% sensitivity in predicting liver damage from ultrasound. Conclusion The hepcidin level was not significantly associated with iron overload markers.

Infectious mononucleosis is a current problem of pediatric practice, which tends to increase the incidence in the Russian Federation and other countries. Liver dysfunction of varying severity in infectious mononucleosis occur with a frequency of 17—90% of cases while Epstein-Barr neuroinfections of viral etiology occur in no more than 5% of patients. This article presents a clinical case of infectious mononucleosis with liver damage and right facial neuropathy in a 15-year-old child.

Abstract Alhagi-honey (AH) is a well-established traditional ethnic medicine with advantageous effects against diarrhea and headaches. We aimed to explore the preventive effect of AH on liver damage induced by heat stress (HS) and its underlying mechanism. HS models were established by thermostat, and mice were treated at 39 ℃ for 10 h, lasting for 7 days. Hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) staining and Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) staining were used for histological observation, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used for ultrastructure examination of hepatocytes. Gut microbiota (GM) composition and liver metabolites were respectively analyzed by 16S rRNA sequencing and non-targeted metabolome sequencing. AH pretreatment alleviated liver damage caused by heat stress in mice. The main manifestation was that AH alleviated serum aspartate transferase (AST) and aspartate transaminase (ALT). It was found that AH improved symptoms of hepatocyte damage. In addition, the relative abundance of f_Rikenellaceae, g_Incertae_Sedis and s_Staphylococcus_Orisratti, g_Lachnoclostridium, g_GCA-900066575, and s_Alistipes_inops were modified by AH and these bacterial genera showed association with 6 metabolites (2- (3,4-dihydroxyphenyl) acetamide, 3-hydroxy-3-methylpentanedioic acid, PC (17:0/17:1), Y-L-Glutamy-L-glutamic acid, L-Isoleucine, 5-Methyluridine, 8,8-dimethyl-2-phenyl-4H,8H-pyrano [2, 3-h] chromen-4-one). The Pearson analysis also showed a strong correlation between these microbes and 2 risk indicators (AST and ALT) of liver damage. AH alleviated HS-induced liver damage by regulating liver metabolism and maintaining normal GM. It demonstrated that AH held potential as a prophylactic drug for the prevention of HS-induced liver damage.

High lipid diets (HLD) and high plant-protein diets (HPD) exhibit potential fishmeal-saving effects but negatively impact liver health and growth performance in fish. We hypothesized that HLD and HPD impair liver health in pearl gentian groupers (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus♂ × Epinephelus lanceolatus♀) through the modulation of intestinal microbiota and bile acid (BA) metabolism. Four diet groups were tested: control diet (CD, 46.21% crude protein, 9.48% crude lipid), HLD (46.37% crude protein, 16.70% crude lipid), HPD (46.50% crude protein, 9.38% crude lipid), and high lipid-high plant-protein diet (HLPD, 46.54% crude protein, 16.67% crude lipid). A total of 300 fish (average body weight = 15.22 ± 0.03 g) were randomly divided into 4 diet treatments (ensuring 3 tanks replicates of each diet treatment, each tank containing 25 fish). After an eight-week feeding period, the HLD and HPD significantly decreased the final body weight (FBW), weight gain rate (WGR), specific growth rate (SGR) and feed intake (FI) in comparison to CD group, with HLPD exacerbating these indicators (P

Background and purpose: Carboplatin, a second-generation platinum-containing compound is associated with renal tubular injury and hepatic damage in cancer patients. Tribulus terrestris (TT) is widely used in Indian traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. The present study aimed to evaluate TT's beneficial effects against liver and kidney damage induced by carboplatin. Experimental approach: An in-vivo study was conducted on thirty rats. All the groups, except the control, received intraperitoneal carboplatin 90 mg/kg on day 5; the three treatment groups received TT extract (1 g/kg, 1.25, and 1.5 g/kg) for 14 days. Serum and tissue parameters for liver functions, kidney functions, oxidative stress, and inflammatory marker interleukin 6 were measured along with histopathological assessment. Findings/Results: TT at 1.5 g/kg on day 14 significantly reduced creatinine and aspartate transaminase levels compared to the carboplatin group. The increase in malondialdehyde levels and decrease in glutathione levels was significantly reversed in the groups treated with TT 1.25 and 1.5 g/kg. Interleukin 6 showed a significant decrease in treatment groups when compared to the carboplatin group. Carboplatin distorted hepatic architecture and caused diffused inflammatory cell infiltration in the peritubular interstitial spaces in the kidney. The histopathological evaluation confirmed that TT extract ameliorated hepatic and kidney damage by restoring to normal architecture. Conclusion and implications: Aqueous extract of TT demonstrated a therapeutic effect against nephrotoxicity and hepatotoxicity caused by carboplatin. The observed benefits can be attributed to its anti-inflammatory action and antioxidant properties.

Abstract Modulators of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) improved cystic fibrosis (CF) patients’ outcome. The elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI) combination was safe and effective improving lung function in patients with different CFTR genotypes, including at least one F508del mutation. However, cases with liver damage were reported. We describe 105 CF patients heterozygous for F508del in trans with another CFTR mutation, treated for 1 year with ETI. We analyzed liver biochemical parameters and cholesterol metabolism, including lathosterol and phytosterols, surrogate markers of cholesterol de-novo synthesis and absorption, respectively. The treatment significantly improved sweat chloride, body mass index and forced expiratory volume in 1 s, whereas it caused a significant increase of total and conjugated bilirubin, ALT and GGT, even if no patients developed CF liver disease. Such alterations were less relevant than those previously observed in ETI-treated F508del homozygous patients. Furthermore, ETI treatment significantly increased serum cholesterol by enhancing its absorption (correlation between serum cholesterol and phytosterols). Whereas, we observed a normalization of de-novo biosynthesis (lathosterol reduction) that was not observed in homozygous patients. These data suggest that the second mutation in trans with the F508del contributes to reduce the liver cholesterol accumulation and thus, the triggering of liver inflammation. However, no differences in the alteration of biochemical indexes were observed between CF patients with and without liver steatosis, and between patients with different mutations in trans with the F508del. Such data suggest to further investigate the effects of ETI therapy on liver function indexes and new predictive biomarkers.

Shuping Zhang,1,&ast; Yamei Ma,1,&ast; Xiu Zang,2 Hao Heng,2 Xuekui Liu,2 Gangshan Peng,3 Ran Liu,3 Jun Liang,1,2,&ast; Houfa Geng1,2,&ast; 1Graduate School, Bengbu Medical University, Bengbu, Anhui, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Endocrinology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China; 3The Affiliated Xuzhou Clinical College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, People’s Republic of China&ast;These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Houfa Geng; Jun Liang, Email genghoufa@xzhmu.edu.cn; liangjun@xzhmu.edu.cnAbstract: Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY) is an autosomal dominant inherited disorder prevalent among adolescents. Typically, it manifests with hyperglycemia before the age of 25. MODY5 is attributed to a mutation in the Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor-1β (HNF-1β) gene. A complete absence of HNF-1β is observed in 50% of those with MODY5. The 17q12 microdeletion syndrome closely linked with MODY5. Its incidence in the general population is around 1 in 14,500 and is linked with facial deformities, diabetes, polycystic kidneys, pancreatic hypertrophy, liver anomalies, and neuropsychological impairments. The most primary clinical signs are predominantly associated with the HNF-1β gene deletion. We chronicle the case of a male of 19 years of age diagnosed with diabetes, who, alongside persistent liver damage and polycystic kidneys, was referred from a community hospital to the Xuzhou Central Hospital. His clinical presentation included diabetes, liver dysfunction, polycystic kidneys, lipid irregularities, insulin resistance, and fatty atrophy. Subsequent genetic screening unveiled a 17q12 chromosomal deletion and an absence of the Hepatocyte Nuclear Factor-1β (HNF-1β) gene. Hence, for adolescent patients lacking a familial diabetes history but exhibiting symptoms like polycystic kidneys, liver damage, lipid irregularities, and fatty atrophy, a thorough assessment for the 17q12 microdeletion syndrome becomes imperative.Keywords: 17q12 microdeletion syndrome, HNF-1β gene, special-type diabetes, MODY5, polycystic kidneys, liver damage

Abstract Background Secondary carnitine deficiency in patients with anorexia nervosa has been rarely reported. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of carnitine deficiency in severely malnourished patients with eating disorders during refeeding and assess its potential adverse effects on treatment outcomes. Method In a cohort study of 56 female inpatients with eating disorders at a single hospital from March 2010 to December 2020, we measured plasma free carnitine (FC) levels and compared to those of a healthy control group (n = 35). The patients were categorized into three groups based on FC levels: FC deficiency (FC< 20 µmol/L), FC pre-deficiency (20 µmol/L ≤ FC< 36 µmol/L), and FC normal (36 µmol/L ≤ FC). Results Upon admission, the patients had a median age of 26 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 21–35) and a median body mass index (BMI) of 13.8 kg/m2 (IQR: 12.8–14.8). Carnitine deficiency or pre-deficiency was identified in 57% of the patients. Hypocarnitinemia was associated with a decline in hemoglobin levels during refeeding (odds ratio [OR]: 0.445; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.214–0.926, p = 0.03), BMI at admission (OR: 0.478; 95% CI: 0.217–0.874, p = 0.014), and moderate or greater hepatic impairment at admission (OR: 6.385; 95% CI: 1.170–40.833, p = 0.032). Conclusions Hypocarnitinemia, particularly in cases of severe undernutrition (BMI< 13 kg/m2 at admission) was observed in severely malnourished patients with eating disorders during refeeding, a critical metabolic transition phase. Moderate or severe hepatic impairment at admission was considered a potential indicator of hypocarnitinemia. Although hypocarnitinemia was not associated with any apparent adverse events other than anemia during refeeding, the possibility that carnitine deficiency may be a risk factor for more serious complications during sudden increases in energy requirements associated with changes in physical status cannot be denied. Further research on the clinical significance of hypocarnitinemia in severely malnourished patients with eating disorders is warranted.

Long-chain free fatty acids (FFAs) accumulation and oxidative toxicity is a major cause for several pathological conditions. The mechanisms underlying FFA cytotoxicity remain elusive. Here we show that palmitic acid (PA), the most abundant FFA in the circulation, induces S403 phosphorylation of SQSTM1/p62 (sequestosome 1) and its aggregation, which sequesters KEAP1 and activates the non-canonical SQSTM1-KEAP1-NFE2L2 antioxidant pathway. The PA-induced SQSTM1 S403 phosphorylation and aggregation are dependent on SQSTM1 K7-D69 hydrogen bond formation and dimerization in the Phox and Bem1 (PB1) domain, which facilitates the recruitment of TBK1 that phosphorylates SQSTM1 S403. The ubiquitin E3 ligase TRIM21 ubiquitinates SQSTM1 at the K7 residue and abolishes the PB1 dimerization, S403 phosphorylation, and SQSTM1 aggregation. TRIM21 is oxidized at C92, C111, and C114 to form disulfide bonds that lead to its oligomerization and decreased E3 activity. Mutagenizing the three C residues to S (3CS) abolishes TRIM21 oligomerization and increases its E3 activity. TRIM21 ablation leads to decreased SQSTM1 K7 ubiquitination, hence elevated SQSTM1 S403 phosphorylation and aggregation, which confers protection against PA-induced oxidative stress and cytotoxicity. Therefore, TRIM21 is a negative regulator of SQSTM1 phosphorylation, aggregation, and the antioxidant sequestration function. TRIM21 is oxidized to reduce its E3 activity that helps enhance the SQSTM1-KEAP1-NFE2L2 antioxidant pathway. Inhibition of TRIM21 May be a viable strategy to protect tissues from lipotoxicity resulting from long-chain FFAs.Abbreviations: ER: endoplasmic reticulum; FFA: free fatty acid; HMOX1/HO-1: heme oxygenase 1; IB: immunoblotting; IF: immunofluorescence; IP: immunoprecipitation; KEAP1: kelch like ECH associated protein 1; MASH: metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis; MEF: mouse embryonic fibroblast; NFE2L2/Nrf2: NFE2 like BZIP transcription factor 2; PA: palmitic acid; PB1: Phox and Bem 1; ROS: reactive oxygen species; SLD: steatotic liver disease; SQSTM1: sequestosome 1; TBK1: TANK-binding kinase 1; TRIM21: tripartite motif containing 21. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intravascular hemolysis is a central feature of congenital and acquired hemolytic anemias, complement disorders, infectious diseases, and toxemias. Massive and/or chronic hemolysis is followed by the induction of inflammation, very often with severe damage of organs, which enhances the morbidity and mortality of hemolytic diseases. Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a β-galactoside-binding lectin that modulates the functions of many immune cells, thus affecting inflammatory processes. Gal-3 is also one of the main regulators of fibrosis. The role of Gal-3 in the development of different kidney and liver diseases and the potential of therapeutic Gal-3 inhibition have been demonstrated. Therefore, the objective of this review is to discuss the possible effects of Gal-3 on the process of kidney and liver damage induced by intravascular hemolysis, as well as to shed light on the potential therapeutic targeting of Gal-3 in intravascular hemolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

HIV/HCV coinfection is associated with a rapid progression to liver damage. Specifically, NK cell population dysregulation is of particular interest, as these cells have been shown to block HCV replication effectively and have an anti-fibrogenic activity. The NKp30 receptor is linked to tumor cell lysis and has a crucial role during viral infections. In the present study, we determined the subpopulations of NK cells based on CD56 and CD16 expression, NKp30 receptor expression, its isoforms A, B, and C, along with the cytotoxicity molecules in patients with HIV/HCV. Results: evidenced by the APRI and FIB-4 indices, the HCV-infected patients presented greater liver damage than the HIV and HIV/HCV groups. The HCV group presented a decreased expression of NKp30 isoform A, and NK cell frequency was not different between groups; however, CD56brigth subpopulation, NKp30 receptor, and CD247 adaptor chain were decreased in HIV/HCV patients; further, we described increased levels of soluble IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, and IL-23 in the serum of HIV/HCV patients. Conclusions: HCV and HIV/HCV patients have multiple parameters of non-fitness status in NK cells; awareness of these dysfunctional immunological parameters in HIV/HCV and HCV patients can elucidate possible novel therapeutics directed towards the improvement of NK cell fitness status, in order to improve their function against liver damage. [Display omitted] • HCV-infected patients presented greater liver damage. • CD56brigth NK cells, NKp30, and CD247 were diminished in HIV/HCV patients. • A decreased mRNA expression of NKp30 isoform A was seen in HCV patients. • Increased levels of soluble IL-8, IL-10, IL-12, and IL-23 were found in HIV/HCV patients. • Liver damage and NKp30+CD247+ NK cell frequency had a negative correlation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains a public health concern. Blood donors screened for HBV surface antigen (HBsAg) along with aspartate transaminase (AST)/alanine aminotransferase (ALT) could play a key in providing safe blood products. We investigated the features related to HBV infection among rejected blood donors in Luanda, Angola. Methods: This was a cross‐sectional study conducted with 164 rejected donors. Donors were screened for HBsAg from March to May 2022. Overall, 63.4% tested positive for HBV. Results: The mean age of the HBV‐positive (29.2 ± 8.02) was lower than the HBV‐negative (33.9 ± 10.0) (p < 0.001). Donors between 20 and 40 years (odds ratio [OR]: 2.34, p = 0.045), females (OR: 1.40, p = 0.516), residents in urbanized areas (OR: 1.23, p = 0.530), low educational (OR: 1.54, p = 0.458), unemployed (OR: 1.65, p = 0.271), and unmarried (OR:1.41, p = 0.616) might be likely to contract HBV. AST/ALT ratio was higher in HBV‐infected (2.07 ± 1.42) than in HBV‐uninfected (1.90 ± 1.14). About 20% of HBV‐positive were classified as having acute liver disease, while 80% with chronic liver disease, based on AST/ALT ratio. Age ranged from 20 to 40 years (OR: 1.97, p = 0.305), females (OR: 1.61, p = 0.557), donors from non‐urbanized (OR: 1.69, p = 0.557), a low educational (OR: 1.64, p = 0.571), and unemployed donors (OR: 1.81, p = 0.289) were likely to develop chronic liver disease. Conclusions: Our findings indicated the failure of viral hepatitis control measures. Authorities should consider including HBV nucleic acid testing to ensure early identification of HBV in Angola. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver fibrosis is the consequence of chronic liver injury in the presence of an inflammatory component. Although the main executors of this activation are known, the mechanisms that lead to the inflammatory process that mediates the production of pro‐fibrotic factors are not well characterized. Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling in hepatocytes is essential for the regenerative processes of the liver; however, its potential role in regulating the fibrotic niche is not yet clear. Our group generated a mouse model that expresses an inactive truncated form of the EGFR specifically in hepatocytes (ΔEGFR mice). Here, we have analyzed the response of WT and ΔEGFR mice to chronic treatment with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), which induces a pro‐inflammatory and fibrotic process in the liver. The results indicated that the hallmarks of liver fibrosis were attenuated in CCl4‐treated ΔEGFR mice when compared with CCl4‐treated WT mice, coinciding with a faster resolution of the fibrotic process and ameliorated damage. The absence of EGFR activity in hepatocytes induced changes in the pattern of immune cells in the liver, with a notable increase in the population of M2 macrophages, more related to fibrosis resolution, as well as in the population of lymphocytes related to eradication of the damage. Transcriptome analysis of hepatocytes, and secretome studies of extracellular media from in vitro experiments, allowed us to elucidate the specific molecular mechanisms regulated by EGFR that mediate hepatocyte production of both pro‐fibrotic and pro‐inflammatory mediators; these have consequences for the deposition of extracellular matrix proteins, as well as for the immune microenvironment. Overall, our study uncovered novel mechanistic insights regarding EGFR kinase‐dependent actions in hepatocytes that reveal its key role in chronic liver damage. © 2024 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modulators of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) improved cystic fibrosis (CF) patients' outcome. The elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI) combination was safe and effective improving lung function in patients with different CFTR genotypes, including at least one F508del mutation. However, cases with liver damage were reported. We describe 105 CF patients heterozygous for F508del in trans with another CFTR mutation, treated for 1 year with ETI. We analyzed liver biochemical parameters and cholesterol metabolism, including lathosterol and phytosterols, surrogate markers of cholesterol de-novo synthesis and absorption, respectively. The treatment significantly improved sweat chloride, body mass index and forced expiratory volume in 1 s, whereas it caused a significant increase of total and conjugated bilirubin, ALT and GGT, even if no patients developed CF liver disease. Such alterations were less relevant than those previously observed in ETI-treated F508del homozygous patients. Furthermore, ETI treatment significantly increased serum cholesterol by enhancing its absorption (correlation between serum cholesterol and phytosterols). Whereas, we observed a normalization of de-novo biosynthesis (lathosterol reduction) that was not observed in homozygous patients. These data suggest that the second mutation in trans with the F508del contributes to reduce the liver cholesterol accumulation and thus, the triggering of liver inflammation. However, no differences in the alteration of biochemical indexes were observed between CF patients with and without liver steatosis, and between patients with different mutations in trans with the F508del. Such data suggest to further investigate the effects of ETI therapy on liver function indexes and new predictive biomarkers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Secondary carnitine deficiency in patients with anorexia nervosa has been rarely reported. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of carnitine deficiency in severely malnourished patients with eating disorders during refeeding and assess its potential adverse effects on treatment outcomes. Method: In a cohort study of 56 female inpatients with eating disorders at a single hospital from March 2010 to December 2020, we measured plasma free carnitine (FC) levels and compared to those of a healthy control group (n = 35). The patients were categorized into three groups based on FC levels: FC deficiency (FC< 20 µmol/L), FC pre-deficiency (20 µmol/L ≤ FC< 36 µmol/L), and FC normal (36 µmol/L ≤ FC). Results: Upon admission, the patients had a median age of 26 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 21–35) and a median body mass index (BMI) of 13.8 kg/m2 (IQR: 12.8–14.8). Carnitine deficiency or pre-deficiency was identified in 57% of the patients. Hypocarnitinemia was associated with a decline in hemoglobin levels during refeeding (odds ratio [OR]: 0.445; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.214–0.926, p = 0.03), BMI at admission (OR: 0.478; 95% CI: 0.217–0.874, p = 0.014), and moderate or greater hepatic impairment at admission (OR: 6.385; 95% CI: 1.170–40.833, p = 0.032). Conclusions: Hypocarnitinemia, particularly in cases of severe undernutrition (BMI< 13 kg/m2 at admission) was observed in severely malnourished patients with eating disorders during refeeding, a critical metabolic transition phase. Moderate or severe hepatic impairment at admission was considered a potential indicator of hypocarnitinemia. Although hypocarnitinemia was not associated with any apparent adverse events other than anemia during refeeding, the possibility that carnitine deficiency may be a risk factor for more serious complications during sudden increases in energy requirements associated with changes in physical status cannot be denied. Further research on the clinical significance of hypocarnitinemia in severely malnourished patients with eating disorders is warranted. Plain English summary: Carnitine is an amino acid derivative that plays an important role in the promotion and regulation of fatty acid metabolism, and carnitine deficiency is assumed in patients with anorexia nervosa associated with chronic starvation, but there are few reports on this issue. This study represents the inaugural documentation of hypocarnitinemia in severely malnourished patients with eating disorders, including anorexia nervosa. Hypocarnitinemia, particularly in cases of severe undernutrition (BMI < 13 kg/m2) was observed during refeeding, a critical metabolic transition phase. Moderate or severe hepatic impairment was considered a potential indicator of hypocarnitinemia. Although no apparent association with adverse events other than anemia during refeeding was identified, clinical manifestations of hypocarnitinemia may occur when a sudden increase in energy demand is added to a change in the physical condition of the patient group. Further investigation is required to determine the clinical significance of hypocarnitinemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For this study, 240 adult healthy female zebrafish were divided into 12 tanks (20 fish per tank) and exposed to 0 (control, T0), 0.1 (T1), 1 (T2), and 10 (T3) mg/L synthesized polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs, nanoplastics synthesized in the chemistry laboratory of the Faculty of Basic Sciences at Zabol University) for 4 weeks. At the end of the experiment, exposure to PS-NPs had no significant effect on the survival of female zebrafish (P>0.05). A significant decrease of hepatic vitellogenin (Vtg) was seen in female zebrafish exposed to PS-NPs (P<0.05). The level of 17-β-estradiol (E2) and testosterone (T) were notably declined in female zebrafish of all PS-NPs-exposed groups (P<0.05). Glucose was notably increased in female zebrafish of all PS-NPs-exposed treatments (P<0.05). There was a significant increase in cortisol levels in all PS-NPs-exposed treatments (P<0.05). No significant difference was seen in lactate levels between different treatments (P>0.05). A significant enhancement in aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was observed in female zebrafish of all PS-NPs-exposed treatments compared to the control (P<0.05). The present results demonstrate that PS-NPs impair the reproduction process so that none of the female zebrafish broodstock exposed to different doses of PS-NPs reached the spawning stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD) is associated with disorganized Golgi apparatus and accelerated phagophore formation. While Golgi membranes may contribute to phagophores, association between Golgi alterations and macroautophagy/autophagy remains unclear. GOLGA4/p230 (golgin A4), a dimeric Golgi matrix protein, participates in phagophore formation, but the underlying mechanism is elusive. Our prior research identified ethanol (EtOH)-induced Golgi scattering, disrupting intra-Golgi trafficking and depleting RAB3D GTPase from the trans-Golgi. Employing various techniques, we analyzed diverse cellular and animal models representing chronic and chronic/binge alcohol consumption. In trans-Golgi of non-treated hepatocytes, we found a triple complex formed between RAB3D, GOLGA4, and MYH10/NMIIB (myosin, heavy polypeptide 10, non-muscle). However, EtOH-induced RAB3D downregulation led to MYH10 segregation from the Golgi, accompanied by Golgi fragmentation and tethering of the MYH10 isoform, MYH9/NMIIA, to dispersed Golgi membranes. EtOH-activated autophagic flux is evident through increased WIPI2 recruitment to the Golgi, phagophore formation, enhanced LC3B lipidation, and reduced SQSTM1/p62. Although GOLGA4 dimerization and intra-Golgi localization are unaffected, loss of RAB3D leads to an extension of the cytoplasmic N terminal domain of GOLGA4, forming GOLGA4-positive phagophores. Autophagy inhibition by hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) prevents alcohol-mediated Golgi disorganization, restores distribution of ASGR (asialoglycoprotein receptor), and mitigates COL (collagen) deposition and steatosis. In contrast to short-term exposure to HCQ, extended co-treatment with both EtOH and HCQ results in the depletion of LC3B protein via proteasomal degradation. Thus, (a) RAB3D deficiency and GOLGA4 conformational changes are pivotal in MYH9-driven, EtOH-mediated Golgiphagy, and (b) HCQ treatment holds promise as a therapeutic approach for alcohol-induced liver injury. Abbreviation: ACTB: actin, beta; ALD: alcohol-associated liver disease; ASGR: asialoglycoprotein receptor; AV: autophagic vacuoles; EM: electron microscopy; ER: endoplasmic reticulum; EtOH: ethanol; HCQ: hydroxychloroquine; IP: immunoprecipitation; KD: knockdown; KO: knockout; MYH10/NMIIB: myosin, heavy polypeptide 10, non-muscle; MYH9/NMIIA: myosin, heavy polypeptide 9, non-muscle; PLA: proximity ligation assay; ORO: Oil Red O staining; PM: plasma membrane; TGN: trans-Golgi network; SIM: structured illumination super-resolution microscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term exposure to amiodarone, an antiarrhythmic drug, can induce different organ damage, including liver. Cell damage included by amiodarone is a consequence of mitochondrial damage, reactive oxygen species production, and cell energy depletion leading to programmed cell death. In the present study, hepatoprotective potential of neurohormone melatonin (50 mg/kg/day) was evaluated in a chronic experimental model of liver damage induced by a 4-week application of amiodarone (70 mg/kg/day). The obtained results indicate that amiodarone induces an increase in xanthine oxidase activity, as well as the content of the lipid and protein oxidatively modified products and p53 levels. Microscopic analysis further corroborated the biochemical findings revealing hepatocyte degeneration, apoptosis, and occasional necrosis, with the activation of Kupffer cells. Coadministration of melatonin and amiodaron prevented an increase in certain damage associated parameters, due to its multiple targets. In conclusion, the application of melatonin together with amiodarone prevented an increase in tissue oxidative damage parameters and moderately prevented liver cell apoptosis, indicating that the damage of hepatocytes provoked by amiodarone supersedes the protective properties of melatonin in a given dose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate the significance level between the liver damage marker (ALT-AST) levels taken in both periods from individuals who came to Ardahan State Hospital before and after the coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) disease period that appeared in our country in March 2020. Patients with chronic viral infections, alcohol use problems, liver cancer, chronic liver disease and cirrhosis were excluded from the study. Considering the period of March 2020, which was the first time it was seen in our country, liver marker levels of the same patients were examined in both periods, before and after. Statistical significance levels were evaluated and discussed in the literature. It was determined that 68 of 96 individuals (70.8%), whose ALT and AST enzyme levels were examined before and after COVID-19, had an increase in ALT and AST levels compared with the pre-COVID-19 period. The COVID-19 pandemic, a new era in human life, continues even though it has lost its effect. These effects include the stress of the illness period, the side effects of the medications used and the permanent damage caused by the COVID-19 infection. Because of these results, liver checquese and orientation towards a healthy life are of great importance after the COVID-19 period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 53-year-old woman was diagnosed with liver dysfunction in August 20XX. Computed tomography (CT) revealed multiple hepatic AV shunts, and she was placed under observation. In March 20XX + 3, she developed back pain, and CT performed during an emergency hospital visit showed evidence of intrahepatic bile duct dilatation. She was referred to our gastroenterology department in May 20XX + 3. We conducted investigations on suspicion of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) with hepatic AV shunting based on contrast-enhanced CT performed at another hospital. HHT is generally discovered due to epistaxis, but there are also cases where it is diagnosed during examination of liver damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Liver damage is a common symptom of many diseases, including metabolic disorders and cancers. Such patient condition requires effective examinations aimed at prompt diagnosis and implementation of the most appropriate treatment for a specific disease. Haptoglobin, the subject of many studies, has proven to be a protein that can be used as a biomarker of liver damage, thereby aiding not only in the diagnosis but also in the treatment, resulting in more favorable prognoses regarding patient longevity and quality of life. The aim of this study is to elucidate the role of haptoglobin as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in cases of liver damage. This is a review of scientific literature and analysis of clinical data regarding haptoglobin levels in liver damage were conducted to assess the reliability of haptoglobin as a biomarker.This paper primarily utilized the latest publications produced after 2015. PubMed and Google Scholar were used to find relevant publications. All cited works provided useful information to achieve the aim of our article. Analysis of the literature suggests that haptoglobin levels may be significantly associated with the development and severity of liver damage. It may serve as a suitable biomarker for diagnosing diseases that coincide with hepatocyte damage, thus improving the diagnosis of these diseases and increasing the chance of appropriate treatment, which may contribute to prolonging and improving the patient's quality of life. Haptoglobin appears to be a promising biomarker in liver damage; however, further research is necessary to confirm its diagnostic and prognostic accuracy. Haptoglobin exists in various genotypic forms, each characteristic of different disease entities. Understanding the mechanisms regulating haptoglobin levels may lead to a better understanding of liver damage pathogenesis and the development of more effective therapies, increasing the chance of patient recovery and improving their quality of life.

Background & Aims: Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is strongly related to nutrition. However, only a few human and animal studies have tested the association between MASLD and dairy consumption and the effect of milk fat on liver damage. Therefore, we aimed at testing the association between consumption of dairy product and the incidence of MASLD and fibrosis markers in humans, and the effect of milk fat vs. other fats on MASLD in animal studies. Methods: A prospective 7-year follow-up cohort study was performed including baseline and follow-up fasting blood tests, liver evaluation and a face-to-face interview on health status and behaviour using structured questionnaires. MASLD was determined by ultrasonography or by controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), and liver fibrosis by FibroTest™ or FibroScan®. An animal study was performed in which 6-week-old C57BL/6j male mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) consisting of lard, soybean oil, and milk fat for 12 weeks. Metabolic impairment was assessed during the animal experiment, and serum advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) and liver damage were evaluated. Results: A total of 316 patients were included in the prospective cohort. In multivariable analysis, high consumption of low-medium fat low-sugar dairy products (g/day above the baseline sex-specific median) was associated with a lower risk for MASLD incidence (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.18–0.95, p = 0.037) or incidence/persistence at follow-up (OR 0.58, 0.34–0.97, p = 0.039). Constantly high consumption of high-fat low-sugar dairy products was associated with greater odds for new onset/persistence of MASLD. Neither low-medium nor high-fat dairy consumption was related to fibrosis markers. In mice, all HFDs induced similar weight gain and steatosis and did not affect liver enzymes. Milk fat increases serum cholesterol and AGEs levels more than lard or soybean oil. Conclusions: Low-medium fat low-sugar dairy products may be protective and should be preferred over high-fat dairy to prevent MASLD. HFDs from different fat sources with a wide spectrum of fatty acid saturation content are equally deleterious. Impact and implications: MASLD is related to nutrition, but evidence of an association between high-fat and low-fat dairy products is lacking, therefore, we evaluated this association by performing experimental studies in mice and an observational human study. For MASLD prevention, a differential effect based on the type of dairy products should be considered: low-medium fat low-sugar dairy products were found to be protective, in contrast high-fat dairy and generally high-fat diets may be harmful. It would be advisable to prefer low-fat low-sugar dairy products and minimise intake of high-fat dairy products; however, additional evidence is needed to allow generalisability of our findings.

Walnut kernel (WK) is a globally popular health food known for its potent antioxidant properties. WK shows a promising prospect in protecting against liver damage induced by salt processed psoraleae fructus (SPF). This study explored the impact of WK in mitigating liver damage induced by SPF in an ovariectomized (OVX) rat model. Serum metabolomics was employed to explore potential detoxification mechanisms. The levels of Farnesoid X receptor (FXR), Bile salt export pump (BSEP), and Cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1) proteins were determined through western blot analysis. The results demonstrated that WK exhibits a noteworthy protective effect against liver damage induced by SPF. The WK normalized the metabolic disorder and reversed sixteen liver injury biomarkers and five metabolic pathways induced by SPF. These results demonstrated that WK exhibits a protective effect against SPF-induced liver damage in OVX rats by regulating bile acid metabolism.

To find a high-efficiency and environment-friendly biogenic molluscicide against Oncomelania hupensis, and prevent aquatic ecosystem from being contaminated by chemical molluscicides and being toxic. We extracted and purified raphides from the tubers of Arisaema erubescent, and determined the active constituents and molluscicidal activity of the raphides, detoxification enzyme activity, and liver damage. The results showed that the raphides had a strong molluscicidal activity. O. hupensis snails were exposed to the lethal concentration (LC50) of 70.95 mg/L and 44.25 mg/L for treatment with raphides for 48 h and 72 h, respectively. The raphides of molluscicidal activity of the main constituents was as follows: intact raphides > calcium oxalate crystals > AEL (Arisaema erubescens Lectin). The activities of peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) in the snail livers increased significantly at the early stage of treatment (24 h), but decreased sharply in the later stage (120 h), compared with that in the control group. The results indicated that after treatment with 1/2 LC50 raphides for 120 h, the activities of POD, SOD, and CAT in the snail livers decreased by 82.5 %, 62.9 %, and 84.7 %, respectively. In addition, electron micrographs have shown that the raphides were needle-shaped crystals and tended to be sharp at both ends (with a groove down both sides) and some were barbed, which caused damage to the snail livers to different extent. Overall, our results indicate that the mechanism of toxicity of raphides against O. hupensis may be that the calcium oxalate crystals pricked the liver surface of snail and produced mechanical damage; and then the harmful protease AEL in the raphides was injected into the liver, which reduced the activities of detoxification enzymes, produced severe toxic reactions and eventually killed the O. hupensis snails.

Hepatic diseases pose a significant threat to community health, impacting the quality of life and longevity of millions worldwide. Despite revolutionary advancements in treatment, liver diseases remain a pressing issue, necessitating the development of more effective therapeutic approaches. Here, we conducted a comprehensive multi-omics analysis to investigate the underlying mechanism of Swertiamarin in alleviating hepatic injuries induced by CCl4 in mice. We divided 100 Kunming mice into five groups: RC (control), RM (CCl4), RD (15 mg/Kg Swertiamarin), RZ (30 mg/Kg Swertiamarin), and RG (60 mg/Kg Swertiamarin). Animals in groups RD, RZ, and RG received daily Swertiamarin via gavage, while those in groups RM, RD, RZ, and RG were treated with CCl4 solution intraperitoneally every four days, nine times in total. Our findings revealed that mice in the RM group exhibited slightly lower average weights compared to other groups, along with significantly higher liver weight (p

Paraquat (PQ) is among the most widely used herbicides in the agriculture sector worldwide and is extremely noxious to both animals and humans. Paraquat exposure damages various organs in the body, particularly the liver. Sciadopitysin (SCD), a biflavonoid that is reported in Ginko biloba leaves, shows diverse biological potentials such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The primary focus of this research was to estimate the effects of SCD against PQ-instigated hepatic toxicity in rats. Forty-eight male albino rats were randomly split into 4 groups: control group, PQ (5 mgkg−1) treated group, PQ (5 mgkg−1) + SCD (2 mgkg−1) co-treated group and SCD (2 mgkg−1) only treated group. After 30 days of experimentation, PQ exposure lowered the expression of Nrf-2 and antioxidants genes, while increasing the expression of Keap-1. The activities of antioxidants, including heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GSR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione (GSH) as well as total protein levels, were reduced following PQ administration. Moreover, malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) contents were elevated in PQ exposed rats. PQ intoxication also increased the expressions of Bax and Caspase-3, while down-regulating Bcl-2 expressions. Furthermore, PQ exposure induced morphological alterations in the liver. Nevertheless, SCD treatment reduced all PQ-elicited damages in the liver of rats owing to its free radical scavenging potential.

Background and purpose: Cancer is considered one of the most common causes of mortality, in today’s world. A growing body of evidence has demonstrated that the global cancer burden is expected to rise significantly in the years to come. Cancer is characterized by the uncontrollable rate of cells growth, ultimately proving fatal if not treated. Both genetic and environmental contributing factors have proven critical in developing differential cancers. Chemotherapy is the most common form of treatment used for cancers all around the world. Despite a high efficiency in treating malignancies, toxicity and targeting of normal healthy tissues are considered the most common side effects of chemotherapeutic agents. Thus, reducing the aforementioned side effects with complementary treatments can prove critical through maximizing therapeutic efficiency while also minimizing unwanted side effects at the same time. Doxorubicin (DOX) is a common chemotherapy drug that, has limitations on its use due to severe side effects such as hepatotoxicity, nephrotoxicity, as well as cardiotoxicity. Metformin is one of the most common drugs originally used for the treatment of type II diabetes. Additionally, coenzyme Q10 is naturally produced by the body and can also be obtained from diet and supplements. Both metformin and coenzyme Q10 have demonstrated protective effects against toxicity and oxidative stress and are attractive candidates for the treatment of diseases with the basis of inflammation and oxidative stress as demonstrated by various studies investigating the effect of metformin as well as coenzyme Q10 against toxicities. This study investigates the protective effects of metformin and coenzyme Q10 alone and in combination against doxorubicin-induced oxidative damage in rats. Materials and methods: In this experiment, 36 male Wistar rats were divided into six groups (n=6). The groups consisted of a normal control group (distilled water), metformin and coenzyme Q10 control group: (metformin+coenzyme Q10), doxorubicin control group (doxorubicin), Metformin pre-treatment group (metformin+ doxorubicin), coenzyme Q10 pre-treatment group (coenzyme Q10+doxorubicin), as well as metformin and coenzyme Q10 pre-treatment group (metformin + coenzyme Q10+doxorubicin). Metformin (200 mg/kg) and coenzyme Q10 (15 mg/kg) were administered orally daily for one week, and doxorubicin (25 mg/kg), was injected on the eighth day. 24 hours after the last injection, blood and liver tissue samples were collected to analyze liver enzymes (i.e. ALT, AST, ALP), oxidative stress parameters (i.e. malondialdehyde, total antioxidant capacity, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase), and histological changes. Results: The results showed that doxorubicin significantly elevates the activity of liver enzymes, concentration of malondialdehyde, and tissue damage and decreases total antioxidant capacity, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activity (P

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic surfactants of over 12,000 compounds that are incorporated into numerous products for their chemical and physical properties. Studies have associated PFAS with adverse health effects. Although there is a high potential for dermal exposure, these studies are lacking. The present study evaluated the systemic and immunotoxicity of subchronic 28- or 10-days of dermal exposure, respectively, to PFHpS (0.3125–2.5% or 7.82–62.5 mg/kg/dose) or PFOS (0.5% or 12.5 mg/kg/dose) in a murine model. Elevated levels of PFHpS were detected in the serum and urine, suggesting that absorption is occurring through the dermal route. PFHpS induced significantly increased relative liver weight, significantly decreased relative spleen and thymus weight, altered serum chemistries, and altered histopathology. Additionally, PFHpS significantly reduced the humoral immune response and altered immune subsets in the spleen, suggesting immunosuppression. Gene expression changes were observed in the liver, skin, and spleen of genes involved in fatty acid metabolism, necrosis, and inflammation. Immune-cell phenotyping identified significant decreases in B-cells and CD11b+ monocyte and/or macrophages in the spleen along with decreases in eosinophils and dendritic cells in the skin. These findings support PFHpS absorption through the skin leading to liver damage and immune suppression.

People who expose to mixture of crude oil products had been reported to show several diseased-symptoms including hypertension, liver failure and chronic complications. The drugs for treating multiple-complex diseases are scarcely available. Cashew nut snack is known to check multiple diseases and easily accessible by indigenous-patients with no lethal-effects. Here, we examined the corrective-measures of roasted-cashew-nut (RCN) against hypertension co-morbidity with liver-failure in male rats on exposure to mixture of fractionated-petroleum-products (MFPP). Seventy (70) male-albino-rats (n = 10) were randomly exposed to MFPP for 14 days. Group 1: control rats were given basal-diet. Group 2 was given basal diet + 0.2 ml/day-MFPP. Group 3 was given 0.2 ml/day-MFPP + 50 mg/kg Atenolol. Group 4 was given 0.2 ml/day-MFPP + 10 % RCN. Group 5 was given 0.2 ml/day-MFPP + 20 % RCN. Group 6 was given 10 % RCN. Group 7 was given 20 % RCN. We found that high activities of liver-arginase, MAO-A, AChE, ADA, PDE-51 and ATP-hydrolytic-enzymes with low-bioavailability of NO-level on exposure to MFPP implicated liver-failure and hypertension. Also, up-regulation of HIF-1, p53, TNF-α, and MCP-1 with reduced-level of 1L-10 were connected to liver-failure and hypertension. However, post-treatment with 10 % RCN and 20 % RCN for 14-days corrected liver-failure and hypertension by inhibiting liver-arginase, MAO-A, AChE, ADA, PDE-51 and ATP-hydrolytic-enzymes. Also, liver-failure characterized by vascular-congestion and sinusoidal-dilation on exposure to 0.2 ml/day-MFPP was reversed by 10 % RCN and 20 % RCN via down-regulation of liver HIF-1, p53, TNF-α, MCP-1 with increased 1L-10. We conclude that 10 % RCN and 20 % RCN may be an innovative-snacks against hepatocellular damage co-morbidity with hypertension.

In this research, the influence of hirsutidin on mice with alcoholic liver disease was examined. A total of 30 mice were randomly allocated to five groups (n = 6): Normal control group, Ethanol (EtOH) control group, hirsutidin-10, hirsutidin-20, and hirsutidin-20 per se for 4-week. Furthermore, 1 h after the last dosage of the treatment, 5 mL/kg (i.p.) EtOH (56%) was injected to cause hepatic injury. After 5 h of EtOH administration, blood samples were taken, and then the liver was excised for biochemical analysis. Hirsutidin treatment restored the biochemical changes induced by EtOH: serum levels of liver function tests, lipid profile, blood urea nitrogen, antioxidants levels, malondialdehyde, and cytokines. Hirsutidin supplementation also significantly decreased the histopathological abnormalities in EtOH-induced mice. In the present study, hirsutidin was found to have therapeutic potential for the treatment of alcoholic liver disease. Hirsutidin prevented ethanol-induced biochemical and histopathological alterations in the liver, suggesting its hepatoprotective effect.

Asparagus racemosus Willd., Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp., Cassia fistula L., and Carissa spinarum L. (ACCC) are used in ethnomedicine for treating a variety of diseases, including liver disease. The present study investigated the combined antioxidative and hepatoprotective roles of an aqueous methanol extract of ACCC (AMACCC) on CCl4 -induced hepatic damage in the rat model. Thirty male Wistar Albino rats were divided uniformly into five groups. Group I (control) received only the vehicle DMSO (0.5 mL/kg b.w.) and was fed a normal diet for 28 days. Carbon tetrachloride (0.5 mL/kg b.w., 20% CCl4 /olive oil) was used to intoxicate groups II-V. Rats in Group II remained untreated, while groups III, IV, and V were given 50 mg/kg b.w. of sylimarin, 100 mg/kg b.w., and 200 mg/kg b.w. of AMACCC, respectively, for 28 days. Investigations were conducted to evaluate the combined action of AMACCC on liver marker enzymes along with histopathological changes of hepatic tissue before and after treatment. In vitro antioxidative activity of AMACCC was also observed. There were significant increases (p<0.001) in serum hepatic enzyme markers (ALT, AST, and ALP) activities in rats intoxicated with CCl4 when compared to the normal group, but administration of AMACCC extract at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg body weight and standard sylimarin drug attenuated (p<0.01) the toxic effects of CCl4 . The treated liver was shown to be in repair histopathologically. The combination of the four plant extracts has a strong hepatoprotective effect, indicating that more research is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Iridovirus poses a substantial threat to global aquaculture due to its high mortality rate; however, the molecular mechanisms underpinning its pathogenesis are not well elucidated. Here, a multi-omics approach was applied to groupers infected with Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV), focusing on the roles of key metabolites. Results showed that SGIV induced obvious histopathological damage and changes in metabolic enzymes within the liver. Furthermore, SGIV significantly reduced the contents of lipid droplets, triglycerides, cholesterol, and lipoproteins. Metabolomic analysis indicated that the altered metabolites were enriched in 19 pathways, with a notable down-regulation of lipid metabolites such as glycerophosphates and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), consistent with disturbed lipid homeostasis in the liver. Integration of transcriptomic and metabolomic data revealed that the top enriched pathways were related to cell growth and death and nucleotide, carbohydrate, amino acid, and lipid metabolism, supporting the conclusion that SGIV infection induced liver metabolic reprogramming. Further integrative transcriptomic and proteomic analysis indicated that SGIV infection activated crucial molecular events in a phagosome-immune depression-metabolism dysregulation-necrosis signaling cascade. Of note, integrative multi-omics analysis demonstrated the consumption of ALA and linoleic acid (LA) metabolites, and the accumulation of L-glutamic acid (GA), accompanied by alterations in immune, inflammation, and cell death-related genes. Further experimental data showed that ALA, but not GA, suppressed SGIV replication by activating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses in the host. Collectively, these findings provide a comprehensive resource for understanding host response dynamics during fish iridovirus infection and highlight the antiviral potential of ALA in the prevention and treatment of iridoviral diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complex epidemiology of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients in West Mexico remains poorly understood. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the HCV prevalence, HCV-associated risk factors, and HCV genotypes/subtypes and assess their impacts on liver fibrosis in 294 HIV patients (median age: 38 years; 88.1% male). HCV RNA was extracted and amplified by PCR. Hepatic fibrosis was assessed using three noninvasive methods: transient elastography (TE), the aspartate aminotransferase (AST)-to-platelets ratio index score (APRI), and the fibrosis-4 score (FIB4). Patients with liver stiffness of ≥9.3 Kpa were considered to have advanced liver fibrosis. HCV genotypes/subtypes were determined by line probe assay (LiPA) or Sanger sequencing. The prevalence of HIV/HCV infection was 36.4% and was associated with injection drug use (odds ratio (OR) = 13.2; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 5.9–33.6; p < 0.001), imprisonment (OR = 3.0; 95% CI = 1.7–5.4; p < 0.001), the onset of sexual life (OR = 2.6; 95% CI = 1.5–4.5; p < 0.001), blood transfusion (OR = 2.5; 95% CI = 1.5–4.2; p = 0.001), tattooing (OR = 2.4; 95% CI = 1.4–3.9; p = 0.001), being a sex worker (OR = 2.3; 95% CI = 1.0–5.4; p = 0.046), and surgery (OR = 1.7; 95% CI = 1.0–2.7; p = 0.042). The HCV subtype distribution was 68.2% for 1a, 15.2% for 3a, 10.6% for 1b, 3.0% for 2b, 1.5% for 2a, and 1.5% for 4a. The advanced liver fibrosis prevalence was highest in patients with HIV/HCV co-infection (47.7%), especially in those with HCV subtype 1a. CD4+ counts, albumin, direct bilirubin, and indirect bilirubin were associated with liver fibrosis. In conclusion, HCV infection had a significant impact on the liver health of Mexican HIV patients, highlighting the need for targeted preventive strategies in this population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Berberine, a natural alkaloid found abundantly in various medicinal plants, exhibits antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and lipid metabolism-regulatory properties. Nonetheless, its protective effects and the molecular mechanisms underlying liver injury in fish have not been fully elucidated. The aims of this study were to investigate the antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and lipid metabolism-regulating effects of berberine against high-fat diet (HFD)-induced liver damage and to clarify the underlying molecular mechanisms. Tilapia were fed diets containing two doses of berberine (50 and 100 mg/kg diet) alongside high fat for 60 days. The results showed that berberine treatments (50 and/or 100 mg/kg) significantly reduced elevated aminotransferases, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) in the plasma. In the liver, berberine treatments significantly increased the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (pparα) and carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1 (cpt-1) genes, leading to a reduction in lipid accumulation. Meanwhile, berberine treatment suppressed lipid peroxidation formation and enhanced antioxidant capacity. Berberine upregulated the mRNA levels of erythroid 2-related factor 2 (nrf2) and its downstream genes including heme oxygenase 1 (ho-1) and glutathione-S-transferase (gstα). Additionally, berberine attenuated the inflammation by inhibiting the expression of toll-like receptor 2 (tlr2), myeloid differential protein-88 (myd88), relb, and inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-1β (il-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (tnf-α), and il-8. In summary, this study suggested that berberine offers protection against HFD-induced liver damage in tilapia via regulating lipid metabolism, antioxidant status, and immune response. This protective effect may be attributed to the modulation of the Nrf2, TLR2/MyD88/NF-κB, and PPARα signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we investigated the hepatoprotective effects of an ethanol extract of Sophora flavescens Aiton (ESF) on an alcohol-induced liver disease mouse model. Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) was caused by the administration of ethanol to male C57/BL6 mice who were given a Lieber−DeCarli liquid diet, including ethanol. The alcoholic fatty liver disease mice were orally administered ESF (100 and 200 mg/kg bw/day) or silymarin (50 mg/kg bw/day), which served as a positive control every day for 16 days. The findings suggest that ESF enhances hepatoprotective benefits by significantly decreasing serum levels of aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT), markers for liver injury. Furthermore, ESF alleviated the accumulation of triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC), increased serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH), and improved serum alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activity in the alcoholic fatty liver disease mice model. Cells and organisms rely on the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1- Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Keap1-Nrf2) system as a critical defensive mechanism in response to oxidative stress. Therefore, Nrf2 plays an important role in ALD antioxidant responses, and its level is decreased by increased reactive oxidation stress (ROS) in the liver. ESF increased Nrf2, which was decreased in ethanol-damaged livers. Additionally, four polyphenol compounds were identified through a qualitative analysis of the ESF using LC-MS/MS. This study confirmed ESF's antioxidative and hangover-elimination effects and suggested the possibility of using Sophora flavescens Aiton (SF) to treat ALD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Birds have enough conditions to be used as bioindicators for the presence of environmental contaminants. Notably, chlorpyrifos (CPF) remains extensively employed in Argentina, particularly in fruit plantations and livestock settings This study aimed to assess the potential impacts of CPF on common quail (Coturnix coturnix) embryos through external eggshell application during key embryonic stages (days 1, 4, and 14). Concentrations equivalent to those used in fruit applications, 5× and 10 × (38.4, 192, and 384 µg/egg), were employed. A 48% commercial formulation of CPF (Pirfos - Icona®) was utilized. An increase in embryonic deaths, as well as a statistical association between the degree of liver or kidney lesions and CPF concentrations was observed. The results suggest that CPF can induce embryotoxic effects with a single exposure to quail embryos and compromise the viability of the organisms. The study suggests a potential exposure risk for embryos through contact with the insecticide on the eggshell's exterior. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) stands as one of the most prevalent concerns in maternal–fetal medicine, presenting a significant risk to fetal health and often associated with liver dysfunction. Concurrently, the coronavirus-19 (COVID-19) infection can lead to hepatic cell injury through both direct and indirect pathways. Hypothetically, these two conditions may coincide, influencing each other. This study aimed to comparatively assess the incidence and severity of ICP before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted, comparing the incidence and severity of ICP between January 2018 and February 2020 (pre-COVID-19 period) and March 2020 to March 2022 (COVID-19 period) across two hospitals, encompassing 7799 deliveries. The diagnosis of ICP was established using the ICD-10 code and defined as total bile acids (BA) levels ≥ 10 μmol/L. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Chi-square and Mann–Whitney U tests, as well as multiple or logistic regression analysis. Results: A total of 226 cases of ICP were identified. The incidence of mild cholestasis (BA < 40 μmol/L) was lower during the pandemic compared to before (3% before versus 2%, p < 0.05), while the incidence of moderate and severe ICP remained unchanged (0.6% before vs. 0.4%, p = 0.2). Overall, the total incidence of ICP was lower during the pandemic (3.6% before versus 2.4%, p = 0.01). No significant differences were observed in severity (as defined by BA and liver function test levels), rates of caesarean section, or neonatal birth weights. Conclusions: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the total incidence of ICP appeared to be lower. However, this reduction was primarily observed in cases of mild ICP, potentially indicating challenges in detection or reduced access to medical services during this period. The incidence of moderate and severe ICP remained unchanged, suggesting that these forms of the condition were unaffected by the pandemic's circumstances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milkfish (Chanos chanos) is valued in aquaculture for its affordability and nutritional richness. However, conventional farming techniques frequently result in suboptimal yields due to lead (Pb) contamination. Traditional milkfish ponds are typically situated near coastal areas, river waters, estuaries, ports, and industrial zones, rendering them susceptible to contamination, particularly from heavy metals, like Pb. This study aimed to analyze Pb accumulation in the body of milkfish juvenile, identify liver and gills damage, and examine the growth rate and survival of milkfish exposed to Pb at various concentrations. Juvenile milkfish were exposed to various concentrations of PbNO3, namely 0 mL.L-1, 0.08 mL.L-1, 0.8 mL.L-1, and 8 mL.L-1, including the non-exposed control group. The metal content of the fish bodies was measured using an AA spectrophotometer. Histological analysis of the liver and gills of the fish was performed to evaluate organ damage. The results showed significant Pb accumulation has been observed in milkfish exposed to high Pb concentrations. The control treatments showed a decrease in metal content, whereas treatments with high concentrations showed a significant increase. Exposure to Pb within 30 d can cause organ damage, such as inflammatory cells, secondary lamella fusion, and necrosis that occurs in the gills. In the liver, there is damage such as the accumulation of inflammatory cells, necrosis, and hydrofic degeneration. Pb exposure rapidly damages and disrupts milkfish's biological functions, influencing survival and growth. Pb exposure with doses 8 mL.L-1 significantly affected juvenile milkfish within approximately 60 min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]