microRNAs against steatohepatitis
Scientists have found a therapy for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Svetlana Maslova, Hi-tech+
Currently, there is no treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which affects millions of people. American scientists have identified a new target for this disease and successfully tested an experimental treatment on mice. Their approach differs from the drugs currently being studied in clinical trials.
According to scientists, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects about 25% of the world's population. This disease often develops against the background of obesity and over time can lead to cirrhosis and liver cancer. There are no human-approved drugs for the treatment of NAFLD yet. A new experimental drug developed at the University of Colorado opens up great prospects in the treatment of the disease.
Article by Barbier-Torres et al. Silencing hepatic MCJ attenuates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by increasing mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation is published in the journal Nature Communications – VM.
In developing the treatment, scientists focused on the protein MCJ (Methylation-Controlled J Protein), which is usually elevated in people with NAFLD. It is located in the mitochondria and acts as a brake for their metabolic activity.
The scientists decided to block the activity of the protein with the help of microRNAs in order to enhance the fat burning process and minimize its accumulation in the liver.
The treatment had a positive effect on mice with NABZHP. Their lipid levels and signs of liver fibrosis were lower compared to the control group.
An important feature of treatment is the delivery of therapy to liver cells. The scientists used miRNA in combination with a derivative of the monosaccharide GalNAc, which binds directly to hepatocytes.
"Most of the experimental drugs currently being investigated for the treatment of NLP are small molecules for systemic therapy. Our approach can be called an alternative targeted therapeutic strategy," the authors said.
NLP remains the most common form of chronic liver disease. New studies by American scientists explain the mechanism of the relationship of NLP with the development of neuroinflammation, leading to the development of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.
Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru