New therapeutic target discovered for cirrhosis, liver inflammation, and atherosclerosis
Researchers at the University of Barcelona have identified the RNF41 protein as a potential therapeutic target for cirrhosis and liver inflammation. The study found that the expression of RNF41 is lower in macrophages from patients with liver cirrhosis and in mice with liver fibrosis. Restoring the function of RNF41 protein in mice resulted in enhanced elimination of fibrosis, reduced liver inflammation, and increased liver regeneration. The team used innovative techniques, including dendrimer-graphite nanoparticles and specific isolation of macrophages, to obtain these results. Future research will focus on identifying proteins that control RNF41 in macrophages to develop drugs that increase its expression and regulate macrophage activity in liver diseases.