Stem Cell Model Used to Replicate Non-Alcoholic Liver Disease for the First Time

In a novel study published in the Open Access International Journal of Molecular Science, researchers from the Medical University of South Carolina developed a stem cell model to replicate the onset of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). They also identified potential pathways for future treatment of the disease.

In the study, the researchers used induced-pluripotent stem cells derived from human liver cells (hepatocytes). These stem cells consisted of the mutated gene found in many of those with NAFLD. They found these cells could display the same onset of NAFLD, characterized by increased lipid accumulation.

The researchers then went on to test different molecules on the cells to see if it would reduce lipid accumulation. They found multiple molecules reduced lipid accumulation by targeting specific regulatory pathways. These results showed a promising future for potential NAFLD treatments, as well as using stem cells for modelling other genetic diseases.