.webp&w=384&q=75){kind=logo}
Loading, please wait...
Loading, please wait...
Researchers have introduced a promising approach for liver fibrosis treatment using a novel nanotechnology platform. However, liver fibrosis acts as a dangerous precursor to cirrhosis in patients with chronic liver diseases. Consequently, current clinical options often fail due to systemic side effects or low tissue specificity. Therefore, to overcome these barriers, scientists developed the Lac-AGly nanoparticle system. This platform utilizes natural glycogen as a biodegradable backbone. Notably, researchers modified the glycogen with lactobionic acid to target asialoglycoprotein receptors (ASGPR) on hepatocytes. For instance, this modification ensures that the therapeutic payload reaches the intended site with high precision.
This system delivers small interfering RNA (siRNA) specifically designed to silence connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). Furthermore, the researchers achieved a 51.2% degree of amination on the glycogen backbone. This modification conferred efficient siRNA binding capacity. Specifically, the resulting nanocomplexes maintained a uniform spherical shape and an average particle size of 247.2 nm. Moreover, in vivo testing revealed remarkable results in animal models. In addition, the treatment reduced the collagen-positive area in the liver from 14.3% to just 3.1%. Consequently, this platform demonstrates significant potential for clinical translation. Overall, it offers a safe and effective way to achieve gene-silencing without harming healthy tissues.
The system uses lactobionic acid to recognize asialoglycoprotein receptors (ASGPR). These receptors are primarily expressed on the surface of hepatocytes. Therefore, the siRNA is delivered directly to the liver cells.
Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a key protein that promotes the accumulation of collagen and scar tissue. Specifically, silencing this gene helps halt and reverse the fibrotic process.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice or a professional recommendation. Refer to the latest local and national guidelines for clinical practice.
References
Read summarized clinical updates, watch expert medical content, and earn CME certifications right from your smartphone.
Open your smartphone camera to scan and install.
Researchers developed a glycogen-based nanoparticle platform that targets hepatocytes to silence CTGF, significantly reducing liver fibrosis in vivo....
7 months ago
A new case study illuminates how functional connectivity changes drive recovery from pure alexia following posterior cerebral artery infarction. Functional reorganization supports reading recovery despite permanent structural tract disconnection, highlighting key implications for stroke rehabilitation.
Today
A premature neonate developed upper limb compartment syndrome after uterine rupture extruded the arm through a scar defect. Conservative management with continuous monitoring yielded complete functional recovery and normal limb growth at 10-year follow-up, highlighting non-operative safety in selected cases.
Today
Dendritic cells bridge innate and adaptive immunity in myocardial infarction. This review explores their pathological roles, circulating dynamics, novel tolerogenic interventions, and how standard cardiovascular medications modulate dendritic cells to improve post-infarction myocardial repair and patient outcomes.
Today
Endoscopic posterior cervical fusion combines minimally invasive decompression, joint preparation, and rigid screw-rod fixation for atlantoaxial pathologies. Early clinical findings demonstrate solid bony union, excellent symptom relief, and minimal soft-tissue morbidity without significant vascular compromise.
Yesterday
Atherosclerosis involves extensive glycometabolic reprogramming across immune and vascular cells. This review examines how glycolysis, the pentose phosphate pathway, and lactate-driven epigenetic shifts fuel plaque vulnerability, while highlighting novel therapeutic targets like PFKFB3 and LDHA.
Today
