(i) The search for smooth muscle antibodies (SMA) is a cornerstone of hepatic autoimmune serology, being one of the diagnostic criteria of autoimmune hepat

In memory of Ahmed, a very special doctor, colleague, collaborator, advocate and friend, let’s ra… Philippa Olubodun needs your support for Ahmed Elsharkawy

Transplant Radio · Episode

Scientists at Texas A&M University have discovered that polyethylene microplastics, one of the most common plastics used globally, may contribute to the development of fatty liver disease. The research, published in Science Advances, indicates that exposure to polyethylene microplastics can increase indicators of fatty liver disease even without an unhealthy diet, and the effects are exacerbated when combined with high-fat, high-fructose, and high-cholesterol diets. The study challenges previous assumptions that polyethylene was relatively harmless, as it was previously considered biologically inert. Researchers used spatial transcriptomics to map liver damage and identified molecular pathways involving PPAR-alpha and ANXA2 genes that may explain how polyethylene affects liver function. The findings suggest that environmental pollutants like microplastics may interact with dietary factors to worsen liver health, highlighting the need for further research into how common plastics impact human health. Dr. Aditya Joshi, lead researcher, emphasized that this is the first study to demonstrate polyethylene's role in fatty liver disease and called for more investigation into other microplastic types. The research adds to growing concerns about microplastics' health effects, though more studies are needed to understand real-world exposure levels and their long-term consequences.

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 11 — Malaysia will prioritise targeted screening for people at higher risk of liver disease under its National Liver Health Initiative 2026–2030, as the government seeks to improve early detection of liver cancer and strengthen coordination between healthcare providers. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said the initiative would focus on …

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Background Patients with advanced chronic liver disease (ACLD) and underlying cirrhosis frequently require repeated courses of antimicrobial therapy, with both the frequency and spectrum of antimicrob...