About Careers Internship MedBlog Contact us
Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Advertisement

Novel Technique Could Help In Effective Liver Disease Treatments

by Aruna on October 12, 2009 at 11:15 AM
Novel Technique Could Help In Effective Liver Disease Treatments

University of California, San Diego scientists have developed a novel technique that would pave way for more effective treatments for liver disease.

During the study, researchers utilized an array system that can identify the biological components that can lead to or alleviate liver disease.

Advertisement

It works by controlling the range of environments surrounding star-shaped liver cells called hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), cells involved in liver fibrosis, which is the formation of scar tissue in response to liver damage.

Current approaches to identify the factors affecting HSC biology typically focus on each factor individually, ignoring the complex cross-talk between the many components acting on the cells.
Advertisement

The high-throughput cellular array technology developed by UCSD researchers systematically assesses and probes the complex relationships between hepatic stellate cells and components of their microenvironment.

By doing this, they found that certain proteins are critical in regulating HSC activation and that the proteins influence one another's actions on the cells.

The new technique was developed by Shu Chien, co-author of the paper and bioengineering professor and director of the Institute of Engineering Medicine at UCSD.

"In one step we can look at the physical and chemical micro-environment of the cells," Chien added. "Now we can look at the optimum condition that is best for the cells to proliferate and differentiate."

"By looking at the array you get hundreds of different combinations of proteins and you can look at hundreds of cells at once," said Dr David Brenner, Vice Chancellor for Health Sciences and Dean of the UCSD School of Medicine.

"This will give us new insights for the treatment for liver fibrosis, and it will give us the platform to test new treatments," he added.

The study appears in journal Integrative Biology.

Source: ANI
ARU
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Research News

Insight into Cellular Stress: Mechanisms Behind mRNA Sequestration Revealed
The discovery deepens our understanding of m6A biology and stress granule formation, with implications for neurodegenerative diseases.
Disrupted Circadian Rhythm Elevates the Risk of Parkinson's Disease
Trouble with sleep and the body's clock may increase your risk for Parkinson's, as per a new study.
A Wake-Up Call for Women — Hot Flashes Could Point to Alzheimer's Risk
New study uncovers a link between nocturnal hot flashes and Alzheimer's risk in menopausal women, suggesting a potential biomarker.
Breakthrough Brain-Centered Approach Reduces Chronic Back Pain
Our discovery revealed that a minority of individuals attributed their chronic pain to their brain's involvement.
New Statement to Protect Athletes' Health Published
Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport syndrome is overlooked by athletes and can be worsened by 'sports culture' due to its perceived short-term performance benefits.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
MediBotMediBot
Greetings! How can I assist you?MediBot
×

Novel Technique Could Help In Effective Liver Disease Treatments Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests