Novelties in Chronic Liver Diseases

A special issue of Medicina (ISSN 1648-9144). This special issue belongs to the section "Gastroenterology & Hepatology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 September 2024) | Viewed by 7451

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Chronic liver disease is a silent epidemic worldwide. Published data from the World Health Organization and the Global Burden of Disease show that the burden of chronic liver disease is significant and increasing, primarily due to the increasing burden of metabolic liver disease and alcohol-related liver disease. Additionally, these diseases are associated with a substantial impact on the quality of life and economic burden. The aim of this Special Issue is to collect and present the latest advances in the pathogenesis, diagnosis and therapies of chronic liver diseases. The scope of this Special Issue includes, but is not limited to, diagnostic, predictive and therapeutic studies. We are interested in exploring the impact of hepatology research in a clinical setting, with regards to pre-clinical data record, clinical data management, accuracy of diagnosis and new treatment options.

The Special Issue should present cutting-edge research demonstrating the effectiveness of research progress in the domain of chronic liver diseases.

We solicit original contributions, reviews and meta-analyses that include, but are not limited to:

  1. Preclinical and clinical studies on the new diagnostic tools and therapies related to chronic liver diseases;
  2. Systematic reviews that explore the current landscape on chronic liver diseases in clinical practice;
  3. Meta-analysis to summarize the trends and the evidence of international literature;
  4. Case studies that highlight significant successes or challenges encountered in the application of new treatment of chronic liver disease in real-life;
  5. Contributions exploring the current approach and novelties in the pre-clinical and clinical setting of chronic liver diseases;
  6. Articles discussing future perspectives and new challenges in the area of chronic liver diseases.

Prof. Dr. Ludovico Abenavoli
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Medicina is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2200 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • metabolism
  • virus
  • alcohol
  • hepatitis
  • epidemiology
  • diagnosis
  • therapies
  • surgery
  • liver transplantation
  • artificial intelligence
  • cirrhosis
  • steatohepatitis

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • e-Book format: Special Issues with more than 10 articles can be published as dedicated e-books, ensuring wide and rapid dissemination.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue polices can be found here.

Published Papers (5 papers)

Order results
Result details
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

11 pages, 288 KiB  
Article
Psychometric Hepatic Encephalopathy Tests and Electroencephalogram Results Among Cirrhotic Patients
by Alaa Aboud Mohamed, Mostafa M. Elkholy, Ola O. Mangoud, Ahmed R. N. Ibrahim, Marwa O. Elgendy and Ali M. Abdel Fattah
Medicina 2024, 60(11), 1861; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60111861 - 14 Nov 2024
Viewed by 669
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Patients with cirrhosis who seem normal during physical examinations may still have abnormalities in their electroencephalogram (EEG) or show pathological results in neuropsychological tests. This study aimed to investigate the progression of minimal hepatic encephalopathy, its effects on quality [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Patients with cirrhosis who seem normal during physical examinations may still have abnormalities in their electroencephalogram (EEG) or show pathological results in neuropsychological tests. This study aimed to investigate the progression of minimal hepatic encephalopathy, its effects on quality of life, its prognostic value, and its significance for daily functioning. Materials and Methods: This study involved 50 patients with confirmed cirrhosis (28 Child A, 12 Child B, 10 Child C) who were assessed for psychological symptoms and underwent several tests: the Minimal Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Letter Cancellation Test, the Digit Symbol Coding Test, and EEG. Results: showed that 40% of patients exhibited neuropsychiatric symptoms, with somatization being the most common at 96%. The MMSE revealed cognitive impairment in 48% of patients. In the Letter Cancellation Test (LCT) (total error), 80% of patients had organic disorders, and 24% showed affections with (LCT) (completion time). The Digit Symbol Coding Test results showed affection in 28% of patients. Significant EEG changes were observed in patients with Child C cirrhosis. Patients with portal hypertension (including varices and variceal bleeding), liver cell failure symptoms (such as ascites, lower limb edema, and bleeding tendency), as well as those who smoke, or obese, or have hyperlipidemia, all displayed notable EEG and psychological test abnormalities, making them more likely to develop hepatic encephalopathy. Conclusions: psychological testing and EEG changes are effective in detecting minimal hepatic encephalopathy, with a higher incidence in Child C patients compared to those in Child A and B. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novelties in Chronic Liver Diseases)
16 pages, 1948 KiB  
Article
Impact of preS1 Evaluation in the Management of Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
by Yuka Hayashi, Kazuto Tajiri, Tatsuhiko Ozawa, Kiyohiko Angata, Takashi Sato, Akira Togayachi, Izuru Nagashima, Hiroki Shimizu, Aiko Murayama, Nozomu Muraishi, Hisashi Narimatsu and Ichiro Yasuda
Medicina 2024, 60(8), 1334; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60081334 - 16 Aug 2024
Viewed by 1203
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The measurement of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is essential for managing chronic hepatitis B virus infection (CHB). HBsAg consists of three different surface envelope proteins: large, middle, and small HB surface proteins. However, in clinical practice, it is [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The measurement of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) is essential for managing chronic hepatitis B virus infection (CHB). HBsAg consists of three different surface envelope proteins: large, middle, and small HB surface proteins. However, in clinical practice, it is not common to evaluate each of these HB surface proteins separately. Materials and Methods: In this study, we investigated preS1 expression using seven monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) in 68 CHB patients, as well as examining their antigenicity. Results: Although the seven mAbs had been derived from genotype (Gt) C, they could recognize preS1 with Gts A to D. The epitopes were concentrated within the aa33-47 region of preS1, and their antigenicity was significantly reduced by an aa45F substitution. We found that preS1 expression remained consistent regardless of HBsAg levels and different Gts in CHB patients, in contrast to what was observed in SHBs. Conclusions: These results suggest that the antigenic epitope is preserved among different Gts and that the expression pattern of preS1 is altered during CHB, highlighting its vital role in the HBV infection cycle. Our present results suggest preS1 is a promising therapeutic target in CHB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novelties in Chronic Liver Diseases)
Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 644 KiB  
Article
Prospective Assessment of Serum Lipid Alterations in Chronic Hepatitis C Patients Treated with Direct Acting Antivirals: Insights Six Months Post Sustained Virological Response
by Oana Koppandi, Dana Iovănescu, Bogdan Miuțescu, Alexandru Cătălin Motofelea, Oana Maria Jigău, Andreea Iulia Papoi, Călin Burciu, Eyad Gadour, Deiana Vuletici and Eftimie Miuțescu
Medicina 2024, 60(8), 1295; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60081295 - 10 Aug 2024
Viewed by 954
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is intricately linked with dysregulation of lipid metabolism. In particular, cholesterol plays a crucial role in HCV replication. Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) therapy has revolutionized the hepatitis C treatment landscape, achieving high rates of [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is intricately linked with dysregulation of lipid metabolism. In particular, cholesterol plays a crucial role in HCV replication. Direct-acting antiviral agents (DAAs) therapy has revolutionized the hepatitis C treatment landscape, achieving high rates of sustained virological response (SVR). However, viral clearance comes with some alterations in lipid-related markers. This prospective study aimed to evaluate the impact of HCV clearance on lipid homeostasis and non-invasive liver fibrosis markers in hepatitis C patients treated with DAAs. Material and Methods: Fifty-two patients with varying degrees of fibrosis treated with DAAs therapy were evaluated at baseline and 24 weeks post-SVR. Lipid profiles and non-invasive liver fibrosis markers were assessed. Results: Our findings revealed an increase in total cholesterol, triglyceride, and LDLc (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) levels at 24 weeks post-SVR, alongside an improvement in serum liver enzymes. Although improvements in liver stiffness were observed in non-invasive tests, there was an increase in lipid-related markers post-SVR. Conclusions: This suggests a potential increased cardiovascular risk despite improvements in liver function and fibrosis, highlighting the necessity for statin therapy in some cases and extended follow-ups for these patients. These findings underscore the importance of closely monitoring lipid profiles in chronic hepatitis C patients post-SVR, as well as the potential need for statin therapy to mitigate cardiovascular risk. Additionally, extended follow-up is essential to assess long-term outcomes and ensure the optimal management of these patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novelties in Chronic Liver Diseases)
Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 331 KiB  
Article
Differential Protective Effect of Zinc and Magnesium for the Hepatic and Renal Toxicity Induced by Acetaminophen and Potentiated with Ciprofloxacin in Rats
by Alexandra Ciocan (Moraru), Diana Ciubotariu, Cristina Mihaela Ghiciuc, Mihnea Eudoxiu Hurmuzache, Cătălina Elena Lupușoru and Radu Crișan-Dabija
Medicina 2024, 60(4), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60040611 - 8 Apr 2024
Viewed by 1821
Abstract
Background and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence induced by magnesium chloride (MgCl2) and zinc gluconate (ZnG) supplementation on liver and kidney injuries experimentally induced with acetaminophen (AAPh) and potentiated by a ciprofloxacin addition in [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence induced by magnesium chloride (MgCl2) and zinc gluconate (ZnG) supplementation on liver and kidney injuries experimentally induced with acetaminophen (AAPh) and potentiated by a ciprofloxacin addition in rats. Material and Methods: The experiment was performed on five animal groups: group 1—control, treated for 6 weeks with normal saline, 1 mL/kg; group 2—AAPh, treated for 6 weeks with AAPh, 100 mg/kg/day; group 3—AAPh + C, treated for 6 weeks with AAPh 100 mg/kg/day and ciprofloxacin 50 mg/kg/day, only in the last 14 days of the experiment; group 4—AAPh + C + Mg, with the same treatment as group 3, but in the last 14 days, MgCl2 10 mg/ kg/day was added; and group 5—AAPh + C + Zn, with the same treatment as group 3, but in the last 14 days, zinc gluconate (ZnG), 10 mg/kg/day was added. All administrations were performed by oral gavage. At the end of the experiment, the animals were sacrificed and blood samples were collected for biochemistry examinations. Results: Treatment with AAPh for 6 weeks determined an alteration of the liver function (increases in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, lactic dehydrogenase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase) and of renal function (increases in serum urea and creatinine) (p < 0.001 group 2 vs. group 1 for all mentioned parameters). Furthermore, the antioxidant defense capacity was impaired in group 2 vs. group 1 (superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activity decreased in group 2 vs. group 1, at 0.001 < p < 0.01 and 0.01 < p < 0.05, respectively). The addition of ciprofloxacin, 50 mg/kg/day during the last 14 days, resulted in further increases in alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, urea, and creatinine (0.01 < p < 0.05, group 3 vs. group 2). MgCl2 provided a slight protection against the increase in liver enzymes, and a more pronounced protection against the increase in serum urea and creatinine (0.001 < p < 0.01 group 4 vs. group 3). MgCl2 provided a slight protection against the decrease in superoxide dismutase (0.01 < p < 0.05 group 4 vs. group 3), but not against decrease of glutathione peroxidase. The improvement of mentioned parameters could also be seen in the case of ZnG, to a higher extent, especially in the case of alanine aminotransferase and lactic dehydrogenase (0.01 < p < 0.05 group 5 vs. group 4). Conclusions: This study presents further proof for the beneficial effect of magnesium and zinc salts against toxicity induced by different agents, including antibacterials added to the analgesic and antipyretic acetaminophen; the protection is proven on the liver and kidney’s function, and the antioxidant profile improvement has a key role, especially in the case of zinc gluconate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novelties in Chronic Liver Diseases)

Review

Jump to: Research

11 pages, 865 KiB  
Review
The Many Faces of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease Treatment: From the Mediterranean Diet to Fecal Microbiota Transplantation
by Ludovico Abenavoli, Maria Luisa Gambardella, Giuseppe Guido Maria Scarlata, Ilaria Lenci, Leonardo Baiocchi and Francesco Luzza
Medicina 2024, 60(4), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina60040563 - 29 Mar 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2039
Abstract
The gastrointestinal tract is inhabited by the gut microbiota. The main phyla are Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. In non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, now renamed metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), an alteration in Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes abundance promotes its pathogenesis and evolution into non-alcoholic [...] Read more.
The gastrointestinal tract is inhabited by the gut microbiota. The main phyla are Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes. In non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, now renamed metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), an alteration in Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes abundance promotes its pathogenesis and evolution into non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. For this reason, early treatment is necessary to counteract its progression. The aim of the present narrative review is to evaluate the different therapeutic approaches to MAFLD. The most important treatment for MAFLD is lifestyle changes. In this regard, the Mediterranean diet could be considered the gold standard in the prevention and treatment of MAFLD. In contrast, a Western diet should be discouraged. Probiotics and fecal microbiota transplantation seem to be valid, safe, and effective alternatives for MAFLD treatment. However, more studies with a longer follow-up and with a larger cohort of patients are needed to underline the more effective approaches to contrasting MAFLD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novelties in Chronic Liver Diseases)
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop