Its authors have discovered gene clusters linked to this process in both mice and human cells. Could scientists potentially reverse age-related liver damage? Image credit: Grant Faint/Getty Images.
The key finding is that there may be a way to reverse aging in affected liver cells through pharmaceutical interventions. A recent study involving mice and human cell samples suggests that it might be feasible to undo some of the damage associated with aging, thus restoring the liver partially to a healthy state.
Uncovering the Genetic Clues: The researchers identified an abundance of genes that trigger cell death in liver cells from older mice and in human cells. These age-related genes contribute to a specific type of cell death called ferroptosis, which is iron-dependent and associated with damage to the heart, kidneys, and pancreatic islets.
Focus on NAFLD/ MASLD: The study primarily focuses on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), also known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). NAFLD can lead to cirrhosis of the liver's main cells, hepatocytes, potentially resulting in organ failure.
Potential Therapies: After identifying a cluster of genes affecting cellular aging in mice, the researchers studied cells from humans with obesity and NAFLD/ MASLD. They pinpointed a similar genetic signature, indicating a potential target for pharmacological treatment.
Experimental Approach: To test their hypothesis, the researchers induced NAFLD/ MASLD in both young and older mice through diet. Some older mice received Ferrostatin-1 injections while on the diet to explore the drug's therapeutic effects on aging livers. The study, published in Nature Aging, revealed rejuvenated liver cells in older mice treated with Ferrostatin-1.
Implications for Future Therapies: The study authors anticipate that their findings could pave the way for treatments for NAFLD/ MASLD. Dr. Anna Mae Diehl, the senior author, highlights the possibility of a shared molecular basis for aging-related tissue degeneration across various organs. This underscores the potential reversibility of aging-related liver damage.
Understanding MASLD/ NAFLD: NAFLD/ MASLD is a prevalent liver condition affecting around one in three adults globally and is the most common liver disease in children. About 100 million Americans have MASLD, constituting 25% of the population, as per the American Liver Foundation.
Aslam points out that hepatocytes, the liver's principal cells, are crucial for metabolism and detoxification. NAFLD/ MASLD may present with vague symptoms like fatigue, weakness, and abdominal discomfort, especially in children. Diagnosis often involves detecting abnormal liver enzyme levels in blood tests, although imaging procedures may reveal fatty liver infiltration.
Current Management: There is no direct cure for NAFLD/ MASLD, but lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and weight management can help slow disease progression.