Hormone identified that limits liver fibrosis

KOBE, Japan, Oct. 13 (UPI) -- Researchers have identified a way to limit the liver fibrosis associated with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis in a study that may influence future treatments.

The mechanism was tested in a study led by researchers from Kobe University in Japan, where an estimated 3 million to 4 million patients live with nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH. Their findings were published in the journal Scientific Reports.

During the study, scientists noted patients with NASH and fatty livers are likely to have a growth hormone deficiency caused by a lack of insulin-like growth factor-I, or IGF-I. Researchers demonstrated this condition can be improved by administering growth hormones in mouse models with obesity-related NASH symptoms.

Mouse models showed notable improvement after one month of treatment. Positive changes were observed in fatty deposits, inflammation and liver fibrosis. Researchers attribute the changes to IGF-I's influence on hepatic stellate cells, which play a critical role in the development of fibrosis. Once administered, IGF-I suppresses the activation of the cells by causing cellular senescence, improving mitochondrial function, and relieving oxidative stress in the liver.

Kobe University officials note current medication that limits NASH-related liver fibrosis and other related diseases is very limited. They suggest their mechanism for IGF-I can be used in combination with other medications, and can potentially lead to the development of new treatments.