Researchers at the University of Michigan Life Sciences Institute led a study that found a new type of liver cell in people with MASH. MASLD is the broader name for the disease and MASH is a severe form. In the United States the disease affects 5% to 10% of adults and can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer.
The team analysed gene activity in individual hepatocytes from healthy and MASH livers. They confirmed the usual three zones of hepatocytes and found a new cluster only in MASH. These cells had signs of cellular senescence, when cells stop dividing but do not die, and they increased inflammation.
The researchers also found high activity of a gene called Themis in MASH livers. Tests in mice showed that removing Themis in hepatocytes made injury, senescence and fibrosis worse. Raising THEMIS levels in hepatocytes reduced senescence and improved protection from liver injury.
Difficult words
- hepatocyte — A cell in the liver that does workhepatocytes
- senescence — When a cell stops dividing but stays alive
- fibrosis — Thick scar tissue that forms after liver damage
- inflammation — Body reaction that causes redness and swelling
- cirrhosis — Severe long-term liver damage with scar tissue
- cluster — A small group of similar cells or things
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Discussion questions
- Why is finding a new liver cell type important for people with MASH?
- How could higher levels of THEMIS help the liver?
- Do you think tests in mice help researchers? Why or why not?
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