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Summary: Unhealthy dietary patterns are a major contributor to obesity worldwide, leading to various adverse metabolic effects such as elevated liver enzyme levels and increased cholesterol concentrations. This study investigates the potential of cascara kombucha as a functional beverage to provide health benefits in both in vitro and in vivo models. Our results indicate that kombucha fermentation enhances the bioactive compounds in cascara, including polyphenols and flavonoids. The in vitro study found that cascara kombucha effectively decreased free radicals (DPPH and ABTS) levels, α‐amylase, and lipase activity, suggesting its potential to act as an antioxidant and modulate carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. In a mouse model, oral administration of cascara kombucha at a dose of 300 mg/kg body weight for 28 days successfully decreased fasting blood glucose levels, improved liver health by reducing aspartate transaminase and alanine transaminase levels, and lowered serum cholesterol content induced by a fat‐enriched diet compared to the untreated group. The levels of superoxide dismutase and catalase, suppressed by the fat‐enriched diet, were restored to normal. Additionally, cascara kombucha downregulated genes associated with inflammation induced by a fat‐enriched diet, including tnf‐α, IL‐6, IL‐1β, and cox‐2. It also positively affected the balance of intestinal microflora in mice by reducing coliform density and enhancing probiotic populations. These findings highlight the potential of cascara kombucha as a promising approach to addressing health issues caused by poor dietary habits and metabolic imbalances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yang Huang,1,* Anque Liao,2,* Liangliang Xu,1 Hui Li,3 Mingqing Xu,1 Li Jiang1 1Division of Liver Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, People’s Republic of China; 2Department of Operation Room, West China Hospital, Sichuan University/West China School of Nursing, Sichuan University, Chengdu, People’s Republic of China; 3Department of Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Tumor Center, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, 400030, People’s Republic of China*These authors contributed equally to this workCorrespondence: Mingqing Xu; Li Jiang, Division of Liver Surgery, Department of General Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610041, People’s Republic of China, Tel +86-15908373657, Email xmq_westchina@163.com; 1023987259@qq.comPurpose: The value of liver enzymes, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), in predicting the prognosis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) patients who underwent curative resection has not been elucidated. Therefore, we aimed to construct prognostic nomograms for surgically treated ICC patients.Methods: The impact of liver enzymes on overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) was analysed using Kaplan–Meier analysis and evaluated by univariate and multivariate analyses. Nomograms were constructed for predicting the probability of 1-, 3-, and 5-year OS and RFS and evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves and decision curve analysis (DCA).Results: High ALT, AST, ALP and GGT levels were associated with worse prognoses in surgically treated ICC patients. Nomograms for OS and RFS were constructed based on five prognostic factors: number of high liver enzyme (No. HLE), CA19-9 ≥ 37 U/mL, multiple tumours, lymph node invasion and microvascular invasion (MVI). Compared with 8th edition TNM stage, these nomograms showed better predictive value. The C-index and 1-, 3‐ and 5‐year areas under the curve (AUCs) of the nomograms for OS and RFS in the discovery and validation cohorts were higher than those of the 8th TNM stage. The calibration plots indicated that there was good agreement between the actual observations and predictions.Conclusion: Preoperative ALT, AST, ALP and GGT levels could predict prognosis in surgically treated ICC patients. The nomograms showed good predictive ability for predicting the survival of ICC patients.Keywords: liver enzyme, cholangiocarcinoma, hepatectomy, prognostic factor, nomogram

Abstract Background There are contradictory effects regarding the effect of NAD + precursor on glucose metabolism and liver enzymes. In order to obtain a better viewpoint from them, this study aimed to comprehensively investigate the effects of NAD + precursor supplementation on glucose metabolism, C-reactive protein (CRP), and liver enzymes. Methods PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Embase databases were searched using standard keywords to identify all controlled trials investigating the glucose metabolism, CRP, and liver enzymes effects of NAD + precursor. Pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were achieved by random-effects model analysis for the best estimation of outcomes. Results Forty-five articles with 9256 participants’ were included in this article. The pooled findings showed that NAD + precursor supplementation had a significant increase in glucose (WMD: 2.17 mg/dL, 95% CI: 0.68, 3.66, P = 0.004) and HbA1c (WMD: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.16, P

Aim: There are few data regarding the safety and effectiveness of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccines in patients with intractable hepatobiliary diseases. We conducted a multicenter, questionnaire‐based, cross‐sectional study to determine the safety and effectiveness of the SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines in Japanese patients with intractable hepatobiliary disease. Methods: Patients aged ≥18 years with autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, Budd–Chiari syndrome, idiopathic portal hypertension, and extrahepatic portal vein obstruction at each center were consecutively invited to join the study. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire regarding their characteristics, vaccination status, post‐vaccination adverse effects, and SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Additionally, liver disease status, treatment regimens, and liver function test values pre‐ and post‐vaccination were collected. Results: The survey was conducted from September 2021 to May 2022, and 528 patients (220 AIH, 251 primary biliary cholangitis, 6 AIH– primary biliary cholangitis/primary sclerosing cholangitis overlap, 39 primary sclerosing cholangitis, 4 Budd–Chiari syndrome, 5 idiopathic portal hypertension, and 3 extrahepatic portal vein obstruction) participated in the study. Post‐vaccination adverse effects were comparable to those observed in the general population. Post‐vaccination liver injuries classified as grade 1 or higher were observed in 83 cases (16%), whereas grades 2 and 3 were observed in only six cases (1.1%); AIH‐like liver injury requiring treatment was not observed. Overall, 12 patients (2.3%) were infected with SARS‐CoV‐2, and only one patient was infected 6 months after the second vaccination. Conclusion: SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines demonstrated satisfactory safety and effectiveness in Japanese patients with intractable hepatobiliary diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are contradictory effects regarding the effect of NAD + precursor on glucose metabolism and liver enzymes. In order to obtain a better viewpoint from them, this study aimed to comprehensively investigate the effects of NAD + precursor supplementation on glucose metabolism, C-reactive protein (CRP), and liver enzymes. Methods: PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Embase databases were searched using standard keywords to identify all controlled trials investigating the glucose metabolism, CRP, and liver enzymes effects of NAD + precursor. Pooled weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were achieved by random-effects model analysis for the best estimation of outcomes. Results: Forty-five articles with 9256 participants' were included in this article. The pooled findings showed that NAD + precursor supplementation had a significant increase in glucose (WMD: 2.17 mg/dL, 95% CI: 0.68, 3.66, P = 0.004) and HbA1c (WMD: 0.11, 95% CI: 0.06, 0.16, P < 0.001) as well as a significant decrease in CRP (WMD: -0.93 mg/l, 95% CI -1.47 to -0.40, P < 0.001) compared with control group, and was not statistically significant with respect to insulin and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). However, we found no systemic changes in aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), or alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels after NAD + precursor supplementation. The results of the subgroup analysis showed that the intake of NAD + precursor during the intervention of more than 12 weeks caused a greater increase in the glucose level. Furthermore, Nicotinic acid supplementation (NA) causes a greater increase in glucose and HbA1c levels than nicotinamide (NE) supplementation. Conclusions: Overall, these findings suggest that NAD + precursor supplementation might have an increase effect on glucose metabolism as well as a decrease in CRP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With the global rise in obesity, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has emerged as the most common chronic liver disease. Concurrently, depression is a highly prevalent mental disorder. As the incidence of MASLD and depression continues to increase, a growing body of research indicates a potential association between the two conditions. However, the direction of causality between depression and MASLD remains uncertain. To address this gap, our study utilizes a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to explore the bidirectional causal relationship between depression and MASLD. Methods: We extracted single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with depression and MASLD from pooled data of genome-wide association studies (GWAS). A comprehensive assessment of possible causality was also performed. Possible mediating effects of liver enzymes on MASLD were also assessed. Results: A total of three GWAS pooled data on depression as well as GWAS data related to MASLD and GWAS data on four liver enzymes were used in this study. Our findings indicated a strong causal relationship between depression and MASLD (OR, 1.557; 95% CI, 1.097-2.211; P = 0.016). And we found a mediating effect of gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). ALT 10% (95% CI: 7% - 13%, P< 0.0002). AST, 4.14% (95% CI: 2.34% - 5.94%, P < 0.05). GGT 0.19% (95% CI: 0.15% - 0.22%, P< 0.000000002). However, we did not find a mediating effect of alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Our inverse MR analysis did not reveal any causal relationship between MASLD and depression. Conclusions: The MR analysis revealed a positive causal relationship between depression and MASLD, while no reverse causal relationship was identified. Liver enzymes may mediate the role between depression and MASLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirty-two (32) three-week old Anak Acre unsexed broiler chicks were used to evaluate the effects of bitter leaf powder (BLP) on liver enzymes, lipid profile and carcass characteristics. The birds were acclimatized for one week and thereafter allocated to 4 treatments: T1 (Control), T2 (2.5g BLP/bird), T3 (5g BLP/bird), and T4 (7.5g BLP/bird) in a completely randomized design and each treatment was replicated twice, with each replicate containing 4 birds. The birds received BLP through drinking water (2ml drench) for 4 weeks. At the end of the treatment, data obtained from serum parameters and carcass traits were subjected to analysis of variance and significance was determined at P ≤ 0.05. Results showed that BLP supplements had no significant effect (P>0.05) on liver enzyme markers and lipid profiles. The group treated with BLP at 2.5 g/bird had lowest ALP and ALT liver enzymes and lowest lipid and highest good cholesterol (HDL). The carcass characteristics showed that T3 differed (P<0.05) from other groups in live, slaughter, plucked, eviscerated and dressed weights and body parts including the thigh, breast, neck and the shank weights. The drumstick, back and the gizzard weights did not differ significantly (P>0.05) across the groups. The control group outperformed (P <0.05) other groups in intestinal and liver weights whereas the abdominal fat was numerically (P>0.05) highest in the group treated with 2.5 g/bird. It can therefore be concluded that liver enzyme markers and lipid profile of broiler chickens were at their best in broilers treated with BLP at 2.5 g/bird while the carcass characteristics showed superiority in broilers treated with BLP at 5 g/bird. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 288 Ross 308 broiler chickens (mixed sex) were used to investigate the effect of supplemental guanidino acetic acid (GAA) to soybean meal (SBM) and canola meal (CM) based diets on growth performance, carcass characteristics, liver enzymes, and morphometric indexes. Birds were randomly assigned to four treatments in a completely randomized design with a 2 x 2 factorial arrangement consisting of 2 types of oil seed meal (SBM and CM) and 2 levels of GAA (0 and 0.6 g/kg) with six replicates in each. The results indicated that birds fed with CM diet had significantly lower feed intake and body weight gain and a worse feed conversion ratio than those fed with SBM diet (P<0.05). Supplementing GAA to the CM diet but not to the SBM diet led to increased feed intake so that the value was similar to those birds receiving the SBM diet as a statistical point (P<0.05), while the improvement of body weight gain was not achieved completely. Carcass, breast, and thigh yields were statistically lower in birds fed the CM diet than those fed the SBM diet, while the abdominal fat and liver weight were higher (P<0.05). Neither type of oil seed meal nor GAA significantly affected the liver enzymes and nitric oxide concentrations, as well as gut morphometric indexes (P<0.05). It can be concluded that supplementing 0.6 g/kg GAA to the CM-based diet to some extent improves the growth performance of broiler chickens, and more content may be needed for complete improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome (MetS) complications involves the excessive production ofreactive oxygen species, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. Due to Lycopene, a highly unstable structure andits significant effects on modulating the metabolic system, there is a strong need for a formula that can increase itsstability. The aim of this study was to develop an approach for encapsulating Lycopene and investigate its effects oninflammatory markers, oxidative stress, and liver enzymes in patients with MetS.Materials and Methods: This study is a simple randomized, double-blind, objective-based clinical trial that involvedeighty subjects with MetS, who were equally and randomly assigned to two groups: one group received 20 mg ofLycopene per day for 8 weeks, and the Placebo group followed the same protocol as the Lycopene group but receiveda placebo instead of Lycopene. They were called Lycopene and placebo, respectively. During follow-up visits after 4and 8 weeks, 20 ml of blood was collected for evaluation of liver enzymes and some inflammatory related markers.Results: Prior to the assignment of volunteers to their respective groups, there were no notable differences in C-reactiveprotein (CRP), serum liver enzymes, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, or pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB)between the Lycopene and placebo groups. However, our subsequent analysis revealed a significant reduction in theserum levels of CRP (P=0.001) and PAB (P=0.004) in the group that received Lycopene. Our encapsulated Lycopenetreatment was not associated with a significant difference in serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartatetransferase (AST), or alkaline phosphatase (ALP) between our two groups.Conclusion: This study investigated the impact of Lycopene on individuals with MetS, revealing a noteworthymodulation effect on PAB and inflammation linked to MetS. However, no significant differences was demonstrated inserum levels of ALT, AST and ALP between the studied group (registration number: IRCT20130507013263N3).

Population-based studies reported that the prevalence of NAFLD in T2DM patients, ranging from 30% - 70%. This study aims to determine differences in liver enzyme profiles in NAFLD patients with and without DM and to make elevated liver enzyme levels a predictor or early screening for NAFLD in T2DM patients. This research is an observational analytic study with a cross sectional approach. Research data collection was carried out in October 2022 at Tugurejo Hospital, Semarang, Indonesia. The research was conducted on the medical records of patients diagnosed with NAFLD from 2020-2021 using the total sampling method. In addition to liver enzyme levels, confounding variables were also taken which are also risk factors for NAFLD, including: age, sex, BMI, lipid profile and blood sugar levels. Prognostic factors were analyzed by bivariate analysis test and multivariate analysis using logistic regression analysis to obtain relative risk values (RR). The results showed that AST (p, OR, CI95% = 0.216, 0.998, (0.995-1.001)) and ALT (p, OR, CI95% = 0.870, 1.000, (0.994-1.005)). are not significant as a predictor of NAFLD in T2DM patients. Other variables that were studied showed that Body Mass Index (p, OR, CI95% = 0.023, 0.874, (0.779-0.982)) and triglyceride levels ((p, OR, CI95% = 0.006, 0.992, (0.986-0.998)) can be used as a predictor of NAFLD in T2DM patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome (MetS) complications involves the excessive production of reactive oxygen species, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction. Due to Lycopene, a highly unstable structure and its significant effects on modulating the metabolic system, there is a strong need for a formula that can increase its stability. The aim of this study was to develop an approach for encapsulating Lycopene and investigate its effects on inflammatory markers, oxidative stress, and liver enzymes in patients with MetS. Materials and Methods: This study is a simple randomized, double-blind, objective-based clinical trial that involved eighty subjects with MetS, who were equally and randomly assigned to two groups: one group received 20 mg of Lycopene per day for 8 weeks, and the Placebo group followed the same protocol as the Lycopene group but received a placebo instead of Lycopene. They were called Lycopene and placebo, respectively. During follow-up visits after 4 and 8 weeks, 20 ml of blood was collected for evaluation of liver enzymes and some inflammatory related markers. Results: Prior to the assignment of volunteers to their respective groups, there were no notable differences in C-reactive protein (CRP), serum liver enzymes, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, or pro-oxidant-antioxidant balance (PAB) between the Lycopene and placebo groups. However, our subsequent analysis revealed a significant reduction in the serum levels of CRP (P=0.001) and PAB (P=0.004) in the group that received Lycopene. Our encapsulated Lycopene treatment was not associated with a significant difference in serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transferase (AST), or alkaline phosphatase (ALP) between our two groups. Conclusion: This study investigated the impact of Lycopene on individuals with MetS, revealing a noteworthy modulation effect on PAB and inflammation linked to MetS. However, no significant differences was demonstrated in serum levels of ALT, AST and ALP between the studied group (registration number: IRCT20130507013263N3). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Liver is an important player in regulation of body homeostasis. Study investigated the effects of hydro-alcohol extract of Zataria multiflora (ZM) on oxidative damage, level of IL-6 and enzymes of liver in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated rats.Materials and Methods: The rats were distributed into 5 groups: 1) Control; 2) LPS; and 3-5) ZM-Extract (Ext) 50, ZM-Ext 100, and ZM-Ext 200. ZM-Ext groups received 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of extract 30 min before LPS. Drugs were injected intraperitoneally. The entire period of this project was 17 days. In first three days, only extract was injected and then, ZM was injected along with LPS.Results: LPS increased the level of ALT (Alanine aminotransferase), AST (Aspartate aminotransferase ), ALK-P (Alkaline Phosphatase), IL-6, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO) metabolites and lowered thiol, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) concentration. ZM extract not only reduced ALT, AST, ALK-P, IL-6, MDA, and NO metabolites concentrations but also increased thiol content, and SOD and CAT levels.Conclusion: Extract of ZM prevented LPS-induced hepatotoxicity. This protective effect was associated with reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress.

BACKGROUND: The effect of gender affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) on clinical laboratory parameters, including levels of liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST), is an area of uncertainty in transgender health. AIM: We sought to estimate the distribution parameters of liver enzyme levels among transmasculine (TM) and transfeminine (TF) persons receiving GAHT relative to the corresponding measures in cisgender reference groups, and to evaluate longitudinal changes in these laboratory measures following GAHT initiation. METHODS: The data for this longitudinal study included 624 TF and 438 transmasculine (TM) people as well as 4,090 cisgender males and 4,797 cisgender females enrolled in 3 integrated health systems. Time under observation was divided into 2 intervals: from the first blood test to the date of the first filled GAHT prescription and from GAHT initiation to the most recent ALT or AST measurement. Linear mixed models were used to compare changes in log-transformed ALT and AST values among transgender cohort members before and after GAHT initiation, and relative to the reference groups. The results were expressed as relative differences (in %) and the ratios of these differences (ratios-of-ratios) along with the 95% confidence intervals (CIs). OUTCOMES: Changes in ALT and AST levels among transgender people over time and relative to the corresponding changes in cisgender referents. RESULTS: Among TM study participants, the post GAHT ratios-of-ratios for AST were 1.61 (95% CI: 1.13, 2.31) and 1.57 (95% CI: 1.06, 2.31) relative to cisgender males and females respectively. For ALT, the corresponding comparisons yielded the ratios-of-ratios (95% CIs) of 2.06 (1.67, 2.54) and 1.90 (1.50, 2.40). No statistically significant changes were observed among TF participants. Other factors associated with higher liver enzyme levels included alcohol use/abuse and obesity. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: TM persons may experience modest increases in ALT and AST concentrations following testosterone initiation; however, clinical significance of the observed association remains unclear and requires further investigation. By contrast, feminizing GAHT is unlikely to induce appreciable changes in liver enzyme levels. STRENGTH AND LIMITATIONS: The strengths of this study are the longitudinal design and the ability to assemble an unselected cohort nested within large health systems. The main limitations include the lack of information on hormone levels and the inability to take into account GAHT doses and routes of administration. CONCLUSION: The influence of long-term GAHT on ALT and AST levels appears modest and not likely to reflect clinically meaningful changes in liver function. Hashemi L, Zhang Q, Getahun D, et al. Longitudinal Changes in Liver Enzyme Levels Among Transgender People Receiving Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy. J Sex Med 2021;18:1662-1675.

Objective: A significant amount of evidence has lately revealed that individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver diseases (NAFLD) are at high risk of cardiovascular diseases, which is the primary cause of death in patients. This study is to evaluate liver- and cardiovascular-protectant effects of Nigella sativa (N. sativa). Methods: The meta-analysis was performed using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The literature review was conducted in June 2022 with papers retrieved from the PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library websites from January 2010 to December 2021. The Review Manager version 5.3 was applied for the statistical analysis of parameters like aspartate transaminase (AST) and alanine transaminase (ALT) levels, lipid profil, blood glucose level, weight, and body mass index (BMI). Results: The results showed that N. sativa could significantly decrease the AST (P = 0.009) and ALT (P < 0.05) levels in research subjects. Subjects in the N. sativa group had a significant higher cure rate of fatty liver than those in the placebo group (P = 0.0001). In addition, lipid profile, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose of subjects all significantly reduced in the N. sativa group (P < 0.05). However, the comparison of body weight and BMI between the N. sativa group and placebo group did not show significant difference (P > 0.05). Conclusion: N. sativa did have certain liver-protectant and cardiovascular-protectant effects on patients with NAFLD or chronic liver diseases (CLD), despite the insignificant comparison of body weight and BMI between the N. sativa group and the placebo group.

Aim of the study: The current updated meta-analysis aimed to explore the effects of vitamin D supplementation on various parameters in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), using the latest trials available. Material and methods: PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were screened for the collection of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the efficacy of additional vitamin D vs. the placebo group on NAFLD patients in the last 5 years. Trials included were focused on the assessment of anthropometric and biochemical indices. Results: Our results revealed that additional vitamin D greatly increased serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D), and decreased the low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels. However, no significant differences were found in terms of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), c-glutamyltransferase, fasting blood glucose (FBG), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and Ca2+ levels between the supplementation of vitamin D and placebo. Conclusions: The present study demonstrated the advantageous impact of supplementary vitamin D on the levels of 25(OH)D and LDL-C in NAFLD patients. However, the results failed to provide evidence for the superiority of additional vitamin D in relation to the concentrations of serum ALP, AST, TC, Ca, ?-glutamyl transferase (GGT), TC, FBG, IR and HDL-C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Liver is an important player in regulation of body homeostasis. Study investigated the effects of hydro-alcohol extract of Zataria multiflora (ZM) on oxidative damage, level of IL-6 and enzymes of liver in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated rats. Materials and Methods: The rats were distributed into 5 groups: 1) Control; 2) LPS; and 3-5) ZM-Extract (Ext) 50, ZM-Ext 100, and ZM-Ext 200. ZM-Ext groups received 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg of extract 30 min before LPS. Drugs were injected intraperitoneally. The entire period of this project was 17 days. In first three days, only extract was injected and then, ZM was injected along with LPS. Results: LPS increased the level of ALT (Alanine aminotransferase), AST (Aspartate aminotransferase ), ALK-P (Alkaline Phosphatase), IL-6, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO) metabolites and lowered thiol, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) concentration. ZM extract not only reduced ALT, AST, ALK-P, IL-6, MDA, and NO metabolites concentrations but also increased thiol content, and SOD and CAT levels. Conclusion: Extract of ZM prevented LPS-induced hepatotoxicity. This protective effect was associated with reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Syphilitic hepatitis is a rare clinical presentation of syphilis and is easily misdiagnosed. However, clinical and histopathologic manifestations of Syphilitic Hepatitis can imitate other infectious and non-infectious diseases, and the diagnosis should be considered in patients with abnormal liver function tests. We present an unusual case of syphilitic hepatitis presenting with jaundice and abdominal bloating after treatment with benzylpenicillin, liver enzymes, and mucocutaneous findings improved.

Abstract Background Liver plays an important role in maintaining glucose homeostasis. We aimed to examine the associations of liver enzymes and hepatic steatosis index (HSI, a reliable biomarker for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) in early pregnancy with subsequent GDM risk, as well as the potential mediation effects of lipid metabolites on the association between HSI and GDM. Methods In a birth cohort, liver enzymes were measured in early pregnancy (6-15 gestational weeks, mean 10) among 6,860 Chinese women. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to examine the association between liver biomarkers and risk of GDM. Pearson partial correlation and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression were conducted to identify lipid metabolites that were significantly associated with HSI in a subset of 948 women. Mediation analyses were performed to estimate the mediating roles of lipid metabolites on the association of HSI with GDM. Results Liver enzymes and HSI were associated with higher risks of GDM after adjustment for potential confounders, with ORs ranging from 1.42 to 2.24 for extreme-quartile comparisons (false discovery rate-adjusted P-trend ≤0.005). On the natural log scale, each SD increment of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase, and HSI was associated with a 1.15-fold (95% CI: 1.05, 1.26), 1.10-fold (1.01, 1.20), 1.21-fold (1.10, 1.32), 1.15-fold (1.04, 1.27), and 1.33-fold (1.18, 1.51) increased risk of GDM, respectively. Pearson partial correlation and LASSO regression identified 15 specific lipid metabolites in relation to HSI. Up to 52.6% of the association between HSI and GDM risk was attributed to the indirect effect of the HSI-related lipid score composed of lipid metabolites predominantly from phospholipids (e.g., lysophosphatidylcholine and ceramides) and triacylglycerol. Conclusions Elevated liver enzymes and HSI in early pregnancy, even within a normal range, were associated with higher risks of GDM among Chinese pregnant women. The association of HSI with GDM was largely mediated by altered lipid metabolism.

Background: Studies of liver dysfunction in relation to bone and joint-related diseases are scarce, and its causality remains unclear. Our objective was to investigate whether serum liver enzymes are causally associated with bone and joint-related diseases using Mendelian randomization (MR) designs. Methods: Genetic data on serum liver enzymes (alkaline phosphatase (ALP); alanine transaminase (ALT); gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT)) and six common bone and joint-related diseases (rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoporosis, osteoarthritis (OA), ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout) were derived from independent genome-wide association studies of European ancestry. The inverse variance-weighted (IVW) method was applied for the main causal estimate. Complementary sensitivity analyses and reverse causal analyses were utilized to confirm the robustness of the results. Results: Using the IVW method, the positive causality between ALP and the risk of osteoporosis diagnosed by bone mineral density (BMD) at different sites was indicated (femoral neck, lumbar spine, and total body BMD, odds ratio (OR) [95% CI], 0.40 [0.23-0.69], 0.35 [0.19-0.67], and 0.33 [0.22-0.51], respectively). ALP was also linked to a higher risk of RA (OR [95% CI], 6.26 [1.69-23.51]). Evidence of potential harmful effects of higher levels of ALT on the risk of hip and knee OA was acquired (OR [95% CI], 2.48 [1.39-4.41] and 3.07 [1.49-6.30], respectively). No causal relationship was observed between GGT and these bone and joint-related diseases. The study also found that BMD were all negatively linked to ALP levels (OR [95% CI] for TBMD, FN-BMD, and LS-BMD: 0.993 [0.991-0.995], 0.993 [0.988-0.998], and 0.993 [0.989, 0.998], respectively) in the reverse causal analysis. The resultswere replicated via sensitivity analysis in the validation process. Conclusions: Our study revealed a significant association between liver function and bone and joint-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context The relationship between food restriction (FR) and liver enzyme levels, such as alanine transferase (ALT), aspartate transferase (AST), and γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT), has not yet been confirmed. Objective A meta-analysis of research articles was conducted to investigate the association of FR and liver enzyme levels. Data sources The PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were screened for articles published up to April 30, 2022. Data extraction Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement methodology was used to search for research articles. Publication bias was detected using Begg's test. Finally, 17 trials involving 1982 participants and that reported mean value, mean difference, and standard deviation were identified. Data analysis Data were described as the weighted mean difference of body mass index, body weight, and standardized mean difference (SMD) of ALT, AST, and GGT. A reduction in ALT level was observed after a FR intervention (total SMD, –0.36, 95% confidence interval [CI], –0.68 to –0.05). GGT levels also were decreased in 4 studies (total SMD, –0.23; 95%CI, –0.33 to –0.14). According to subgroup analysis, serum AST levels decreased in the medium-term (between 5 wk and 6 mo) group (subtotal SMD, –0.48; 95%CI, –0.69 to –0.28). Conclusion Existing evidence suggests that dietary restriction improves adult liver enzyme levels. The long-term maintenance of healthy liver enzyme levels, particularly in real-world applications, necessitates additional consideration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the highest incidence of chronic liver disease worldwide, seriously endangering human health, and its pathogenesis is still unclear. In the recent years, increasing evidence has shown that intestinal flora plays an important role in the occurrence and development of NAFLD. Synbiotics can alter gut microbiota and may be a treatment option for NAFLD in the future. Objectives: To systematically investigate the therapeutic effect of synbiotic supplementation on NAFLD patients. Design: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. Data sources and methods: We conducted a search on four databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) to identify relevant studies. Eligible studies were then screened, and data from the included studies were extracted, combined, and analyzed. Result: This study analyzed 10 randomized controlled trials involving 634 patients with NAFLD. The results showed that synbiotic supplementation could significantly reduce the level of alanine aminotransferase (mean difference (MD) = −8.80; (95% CI [−13.06, −4.53]), p < 0.0001), aspartate aminotransferase (MD = −9.48; 95% CI [−12.54, −6.43], p < 0.0001), and γ-glutamyl transferase (MD = −12.55; 95% CI [−19.40, −5.69], p = 0.0003) in NAFLD patients. In the field of metabolism, synbiotic supplementation could significantly reduce the level of total cholesterol (MD = −11.93; 95% CI [−20.43, −3.42], p = 0.006) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (MD = −16.2; 95% CI [−19.79, −12.60], p < 0.0001) and increase the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (MD = 1.56; 95% CI [0.43, 2.68], p = 0.007) in NAFLD patients. In addition, synbiotic supplementation could significantly reduce liver stiffness measurement indicator (MD = −1.09; 95% CI [−1.87, −0.30], p = 0.006) and controlled attenuation parameter indicator (MD = −37.04; 95% CI [−56.78, −17.30], p = 0.0002) in NAFLD patients. Conclusion: Based on the current evidence, synbiotic supplementation can improve liver function, adjust lipid metabolism, and reduce the degree of liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD, but these effects need to be confirmed by further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background It has been reported that supplementation of manganese (Mn) could alleviate the negative effects of age on egg quality in laying hens. However, limited information is available on compensatory ways in order to reduce the adverse effects of hen age on health and Mn deposition in the body. Objectives The objectives were to investigate the effect of organic and inorganic sources of Mn on antioxidant activity, immune system, liver enzymes, shell quality and Mn deposition in the tissues of older laying hens. Methods A total of 250, 80‐week‐old Leghorn laying hens (w36) were allocated into five treatment groups with five replications in a completely randomised design. Treatments were control (without Mn supplementation), 100% Mn sulphate, 75% Mn sulphate + 25% organic Mn chelate, 50% Mn sulphate + 50% organic Mn chelate and 25% Mn sulphate + 75% organic Mn chelate. Results The groups fed 50 and 75% organic Mn chelate exhibited the lowest feed conversion ratio, as well as the maximum laying percentage, and egg weight and mass. Except to those fed 75% Mn sulphate, the hens received Mn supplements either as organic or inorganic, had higher immunoglobulin G and M compared with the control (p

There has been conflicting evidence from meta‐analyses on the effect of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) on non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Therefore, in this umbrella meta‐analysis, we are evaluating whether omega‐3 PUFA supplementation has any benefit in treating NAFLD. Electronic databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase and Google Scholar were assessed to October 2022. This meta‐analysis included all meta‐analyses that examined the effect of PUFAs on liver fat and liver function tests [aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT)]. Meta‐analysis was conducted using a random effects model. Subgroup analyses and sensitivity analyses were also performed. In total, eight articles involving 6,561 participants met the eligibility criteria. Advantageous impacts PUFA supplementation were observed on ALT (ESWMD = −6.72 IU/L; 95% CI: −8.61, −4.84; p < 0.001, and ESSMD = −0.52 IU/L; 95% CI: −0.84, −0.20, p < 0.001), AST (ESWMD = −3.73 IU/L, 95% CI: −5.93, −1.53, p < 0.001, and ESSMD = −0.65 IU/L; 95% CI: −1.08, −0.22, p = 0.003), GGT levels (ESWMD = −4.20 IU/L, 95% CI: −6.85, −1.55, p = 0.002), and liver fat (ESWMD = −5.16; 95% CI: −8.49, −1.82, p < 0.001). Intervention with omega‐3 PUFAs improves ALT, AST, GGT, and liver fat in patients with NAFLD. Thus, omega‐3 PUFAs could be considered as a therapeutic option in the treatment of NAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Latinoamericana de Hipertension is the property of Revista Latinoamericana de Hipertension and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) has been associated with many adverse health outcomes. However, the evidence on such associations with the liver function was not reviewed systemically. Therefore in this study, we systemically reviewed the observational studies on exposure to PAHs and liver function. The MOOSE guidelines were applied to perform this review. We systematically searched Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science for all relevant articles published in English until 10 September 2022. The quality of retrieved studies was evaluated based on the Gascon et al. method. We retrieved a total of 3927 citations through the initial search, of which an overall of five articles (n = 6994 participants) was included in our final review. The quality assessment indicated that three studies had excellent, one had good, and one had fair quality. Three reviewed studies reported a significant negative association between exposure to PAHs and liver function. One study reported a significant correlation between urinary metabolites of PAHs with serum g-glutamyltransferase (GGT), two studies reported that there was an increase in the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) related exposure to PAH-albumin adducts as well as benzo[a]pyrene (BPDE)-DNA adducts in the blood, and two studies indicated that higher levels of urinary metabolites of PAHs were associated with higher risk of abnormal levels of alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and GGT enzymes. Overall, our review indicated that exposure to PAHs has an adverse impact on human liver function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Liver plays an important role in maintaining glucose homeostasis. We aimed to examine the associations of liver enzymes and hepatic steatosis index (HSI, a reliable biomarker for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) in early pregnancy with subsequent GDM risk, as well as the potential mediation effects of lipid metabolites on the association between HSI and GDM. Methods: In a birth cohort, liver enzymes were measured in early pregnancy (6-15 gestational weeks, mean 10) among 6,860 Chinese women. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to examine the association between liver biomarkers and risk of GDM. Pearson partial correlation and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression were conducted to identify lipid metabolites that were significantly associated with HSI in a subset of 948 women. Mediation analyses were performed to estimate the mediating roles of lipid metabolites on the association of HSI with GDM. Results: Liver enzymes and HSI were associated with higher risks of GDM after adjustment for potential confounders, with ORs ranging from 1.42 to 2.24 for extreme-quartile comparisons (false discovery rate-adjusted P-trend ≤0.005). On the natural log scale, each SD increment of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase, and HSI was associated with a 1.15-fold (95% CI: 1.05, 1.26), 1.10-fold (1.01, 1.20), 1.21-fold (1.10, 1.32), 1.15-fold (1.04, 1.27), and 1.33-fold (1.18, 1.51) increased risk of GDM, respectively. Pearson partial correlation and LASSO regression identified 15 specific lipid metabolites in relation to HSI. Up to 52.6% of the association between HSI and GDM risk was attributed to the indirect effect of the HSI-related lipid score composed of lipid metabolites predominantly from phospholipids (e.g., lysophosphatidylcholine and ceramides) and triacylglycerol. Conclusions: Elevated liver enzymes and HSI in early pregnancy, even within a normal range, were associated with higher risks of GDM among Chinese pregnant women. The association of HSI with GDM was largely mediated by altered lipid metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

People with fatty liver disease are at major risk of liver cirrhosis and malignancies. This study aims to evaluate the correlation between fatty liver and diabetes features on computed tomography (CT) using Hounsfield units for the liver and spleen. The research was conducted in Jeddah Hospital’s Medical Imaging Department and CT scan department from March 2018 until March 2020. A total of 50 patients with diabetes were chosen randomly, with males (26) and females (24) ranging in age from 31 to 80 years old. Descriptive statistics of body mass index were recorded for the liver and the spleen; the main liver enzymes were Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), albumin, total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin, which were measured and analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences program, version 23. We found a significant correlation of ALT and direct bilirubin with liver and spleen HU at p value < 0.017 and < 0.073, respectively; the mean and standard deviation for the other liver enzymes GGT, albumin, and total bilirubin in segment 3 of the left liver were 45.48 ± 7.077 HU, 45.00 ± 7.797 HU, 36.67 ± 5.776 HU, and 37.23 ± 4.885 HU, respectively. We concluded that fatty liver is associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus symptoms such as high ALT and direct bilirubin, with no significant association between GGT, albumin, total bilirubin, and liver and spleen HU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic is a prevalent and pervasive environmental contaminant with varied amounts in drinking water. Arsenic exposure causes cancer, cardiovascular, liver, nerve, and ophthalmic diseases. The current study aimed to find the best conditions for eliminating arsenic from simulated wastewater and their effect on biomarkers of hepatic in mice. Adsorption tests including pH, contact duration, Al-kheriat dosage, and arsenic concentrations were evaluated. Seventy-two healthy albino mice (male) were accidentally allocated into nine groups (n = 8), the first group was considered as healthy control, the second group (AL-Kheriat), and other groups received AL-Kheriat and arsenic 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, 150 and 175 mg/kg, respectively. Next 10 days, the following were examined: LD50 level, ALP (alkaline phosphatase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase), and AST (aspartate aminotransferase), besides the histological condition of the liver. The results showed that the best time for arsenic removal was 4 hours, pH 8, Alkheriat dose 1 gram, and 50 ppm of pollutants. The level of alkaline phosphatase ALP, alanine transaminase ALT, and aspartate transaminase AST was increased to 150.96 (U/L), 143.1(U/L), and 32.8(U/L), respectively, in Al-Khriet and arsenic exposed population than the healthy control group, When the appropriate dose of Al-Khriet and arsenic mixture is used, it can aid in the selection of a safe way of disposing of the adsorbed residue. Additionally, it can serve as a low-cost rodent pesticide, increasing the commercial viability of this removal strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) not only affects the brain but also has significant implications for peripheral organs through neuroendocrine regulation. This reciprocal relationship influences overall brain function and stroke prognosis. Recent research has highlighted the importance of poststroke liver changes in determining patient outcomes. In our previous study, we investigated the relationship between stroke and liver function. Our findings revealed that the prognostic impact of stress‑induced hyperglycemia in patients undergoing acute endovascular treatment for acute large vessel occlusion is closely related to their preexisting diabetes status. We found that the liver contributes to stress hyperglycemia after AIS by increasing hepatic gluconeogenesis and decreasing hepatic insulin sensitivity. These changes are detrimental to the brain, particularly in patients without diabetes. Furthermore, we examined the role of bilirubin, a byproduct of hepatic hemoglobin metabolism, in stroke pathophysiology. Our results demonstrated that blood bilirubin levels can serve as predictors of stroke severity and may hold therapeutic potential for reducing oxidative stress‑induced stroke injury in patients with mild stroke. These results underscore the potential role of the liver in the oxidative stress response following AIS, paving the way for further investigation into liver‑targeted therapeutic strategies to improve stroke prognosis and patient outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation of saffron's pharmacological properties and its active ingredients is crucial for understanding its potential clinical and health applications in humans. Diabetes, a chronic disease characterized by impaired insulin secretion or increased insulin resistance, has prompted the exploration of herbal remedies with fewer side effects compared to chemical medications. This study aimed to examine the effects of an aqueous extract of saffron corm on blood glucose levels and liver enzymes in diabetic rats. Male rats were divided into healthy and diabetic groups, with and without treatment, and administered doses of 100, 200, and 300 mg.kg-1 of the saffron corm extract. Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin. The mortality rate significantly decreased after the administration of the saffron corm extract. Doses of 200 and 300 mg.kg-1 effectively controlled weight loss in diabetic rats, with the 300 mg.kg-1 dose being comparable to the control group without diabetes. The results demonstrated a significant reduction in fasting blood glucose levels following the administration of the saffron corm extract. Specifically, the 300 mg.kg-1 dose on the 15th day after diabetes induction led to a significant decrease in blood glucose levels. This hypoglycemic effect may be attributed to increased insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells. Furthermore, the 300 mg.kg-1 dose resulted in a decrease in the hepatic enzymes AST and ALT in the blood serum. These findings indicate that the aqueous extract of saffron corm not only reduces blood sugar and aids in diabetes management but also regulates liver enzyme activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of resveratrol on liver biomarkers in adult participants, using systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Cochran Library was searched, up to October 2021. The pooled effects were calculated using a random‐effects model and expressed as weighted mean difference and 95% confidence interval. The methodological quality of studies as well as certainty of evidence were assessed by standard tools. Thirty‐seven relevant trials were found. Although overall analysis found no significant change, subgroup analysis showed a significant improvement in alanine aminotransferase (ALT; −7.79 U/L) and glutamyl transferase (−6.0 U/L) in patients with liver disorders, and ALT (−2.22 U/L) in younger adults; however, high‐dose supplementation (>1,000 mg/day) appeared to increase alkaline phosphatase concentration (+5.07 U/L). ALT also increased in older adults (+2.33 U/L) following resveratrol supplementation. We found resveratrol did not have a significant effect on liver health in the general population. However, resveratrol could be effective in patients with liver disorders. Our findings also suggest that high‐dose resveratrol administration and supplementation in older adults should be performed with caution. Further high‐quality clinical trials are also needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of resveratrol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Latinoamericana de Hipertension is the property of Revista Latinoamericana de Hipertension and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In cases of abdominal trauma, elevated liver enzyme levels can indicate hepatic injury. To date, there are no documented reports of hepatic trauma without liver enzyme abnormalities. Herein, we present a case of hepatic subcapsular hematoma following a motor vehicle accident without abnormal findings in blood and biochemical tests over the course of time. The patient was a woman in her 20s who had collided with a passenger car while driving a light motor vehicle. She walked by herself to see a nearby after-hour doctor as an outpatient. Radiography was performed, and the patient was discharged on the same day. She was reexamined the next day and referred to our medical center due to possible hepatic injury. Her respiratory and circulatory dynamics were stable; however, she experienced mild tenderness in her right upper abdomen upon arrival. Echo-free space was observed in Morrison's and Douglas' pouches on abdominal ultrasound, and abdominal computed tomography showed a hepatic subcapsular hematoma (grade II according to the American Association for the Surgery of Trauma liver injury scale). However, blood and biochemical tests did not reveal any abnormalities. The hematoma reduced with conservative treatment after admission, and the patient was discharged on the 18th hospital day. This case indicates that hepatic injury cannot be ruled out based on serodiagnosis alone; thus, diagnostic imaging is required in cases of blunt abdominal trauma.

Although the relationship between serum uric acid (SUA) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease has been widely reported, the relationship between SUA and liver enzymes has rarely been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association of SUA levels with alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in populations aged 20 years and older in the United States. We analyzed 7165 individuals aged 20 years and older from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) in the United States. Weighted multiple linear regression models were used to analyze the relationship between SUA and ALT and AST. A generalized additive model and a smooth curve fitting were used to observe the linear relationship. SUA was positively correlated with ALT and AST. In addition, the overall increasing trend of ALT and SUA was observed across the SUA quartile groups. In the stratified analysis by sex and race, the SUA levels in male, female, Mexican American, and Non-Hispanic White individuals, and those of another race, were positively correlated with ALT and AST. However, the SUA levels in Non-Hispanic Black individuals had a nonlinear relationship with ALT and AST. In individuals aged 20 years and older in the United States (excluding Non-Hispanic Black individuals), SUA levels were positively associated with ALT and AST. Therefore, with a rise in SUA levels, liver function should be monitored or intervened with in people aged 20 years and older in the United States. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the highest incidence of chronic liver disease worldwide, seriously endangering human health, and its pathogenesis is still unclear. In the recent years, increasing evidence has shown that intestinal flora plays an important role in the occurrence and development of NAFLD. Synbiotics can alter gut microbiota and may be a treatment option for NAFLD in the future. Objectives: To systematically investigate the therapeutic effect of synbiotic supplementation on NAFLD patients. Design: A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. Data sources and methods: We conducted a search on four databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) to identify relevant studies. Eligible studies were then screened, and data from the included studies were extracted, combined, and analyzed. Result: This study analyzed 10 randomized controlled trials involving 634 patients with NAFLD. The results showed that synbiotic supplementation could significantly reduce the level of alanine aminotransferase (mean difference (MD) = -8.80; (95% CI [-13.06, -4.53]), 푝 < 0.0001), aspartate aminotransferase (MD = -9.48; 95% CI [-12.54, -6.43], 푝 < 0.0001), and γ-glutamyl transferase (MD = -12.55; 95% CI [-19.40, -5.69], 푝 = 0.0003) in NAFLD patients. In the field of metabolism, synbiotic supplementation could significantly reduce the level of total cholesterol (MD = -11.93; 95% CI [-20.43, -3.42], 푝 = 0.006) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (MD = -16.2; 95% CI [-19.79, -12.60], 푝 < 0.0001) and increase the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (MD = 1.56; 95% CI [0.43, 2.68], 푝 = 0.007) in NAFLD patients. In addition, synbiotic supplementation could significantly reduce liver stiffness measurement indicator (MD = -1.09; 95% CI [-1.87, -0.30], 푝 = 0.006) and controlled attenuation parameter indicator (MD = -37.04; 95% CI [-56.78, -17.30], 푝 = 0.0002) in NAFLD patients. Conclusion: Based on the current evidence, synbiotic supplementation can improve liver function, adjust lipid metabolism, and reduce the degree of liver fibrosis in patients with NAFLD, but these effects need to be confirmed by further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It has been reported that supplementation of manganese (Mn) could alleviate the negative effects of age on egg quality in laying hens. However, limited information is available on compensatory ways in order to reduce the adverse effects of hen age on health and Mn deposition in the body. Objectives: The objectives were to investigate the effect of organic and inorganic sources of Mn on antioxidant activity, immune system, liver enzymes, shell quality and Mn deposition in the tissues of older laying hens. Methods: A total of 250, 80‐week‐old Leghorn laying hens (w36) were allocated into five treatment groups with five replications in a completely randomised design. Treatments were control (without Mn supplementation), 100% Mn sulphate, 75% Mn sulphate + 25% organic Mn chelate, 50% Mn sulphate + 50% organic Mn chelate and 25% Mn sulphate + 75% organic Mn chelate. Results: The groups fed 50 and 75% organic Mn chelate exhibited the lowest feed conversion ratio, as well as the maximum laying percentage, and egg weight and mass. Except to those fed 75% Mn sulphate, the hens received Mn supplements either as organic or inorganic, had higher immunoglobulin G and M compared with the control (p < 0.05). A significant elevation in the values of superoxide dismutase was observed in the hens receiving 50 and 75% organic Mn chelate when compared with the other treatments. The ALP activity decreased with increasing organic Mn chelate. Mn supplementation, either as organic or inorganic, increased Mn deposition in bone, egg yolk and shell, serum and liver. Conclusion: Dietary supplementation with 50–75% Mn–methionine has the potential to replace Mn‐sulphate in laying hens' diet for improving eggshell quality, Mn deposition in the eggshell, antioxidant capacity and immune response, as well as improving laying performance, egg weight and feed conversion ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical approaches have been suggested to improve liver health. There is a large discrepancy in the effects of saffron supplementation on liver function in adults. To fill this knowledge gap, this systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assess the effects of saffron supplementation on liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). A systematic search current to August 2020 was performed in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar using relevant keywords to detect eligible articles. A random-effects model was used to estimate the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence (95% CI). Nine eligible trials were included in the final analysis. The pooled analysis revealed that serum ALT concentrations were significantly reduced using saffron compared to placebo (WMD: −2.39 U/L; 95% CI: −4.57 to −0.22; P = 0.03, I2= 87.9%, P < 0.001). However, saffron supplementation did not affect levels of serum AST (WMD: 1.12 U/L; 95% CI: −1.42 to 3.65; P = 0.39) or ALP (WMD: 4.32 U/L; 95% CI: −6.91 to 15.54; P = 0.78). In the dose-response analysis, we did not find a significant dose-response relationship between dosage and duration of saffron supplementation on serum levels of ALT, AST, and ALP. We found that saffron supplementation can reduce ALT serum concentrations without significant effects on other liver function indicators, including AST and ALP. Nevertheless, future large RCTs on diverse populations are needed to understand better the effects of saffron and its constituents on these enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Honey is a widely used natural product with several health benefits. However, there is paucity of information on its excessive usage. The present study investigated the effect of excess honey consumption on hepato-renal functions in male wistar rats. Twenty-eight adult male Wistar rats were selected into four groups (n=7) and treated with distilled water (control) and 1ml, 2ml and 3ml of honey respectively for 5 weeks. Thereafter, the animals were euthanised and blood as well as kidney and liver were collected for further studies. There was a significant increase in Creatinine, Bilirubin, Urea AST, ALP, total protein as well as a significant decrease in RBC, WBC, haemoglobin, lymphocyte and PCV. Histology of the liver and kidney revealed a significant degeneration and necrosis in a dose dependent manner. This study suggest that excess honey consumption causes liver and renal cellular damage as well as haematological alterations.

• This is the first larger sample study elucidating ALT as an indicator of frailty associated with stroke prognosis. • Lower ALT levels were linked to poor outcomes in AIS patients but were not associated with age. • This finding highlights the need to consider both neurological and liver functions post-stroke. Studies have indicated that reduced serum ALT levels are commonly linked to aging and are known to predict poor outcomes in many clinical conditions as potential frailty indicators. There are close connections between the brain and peripheral organs, particularly the liver. In patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS), the interactive effects may change ALT levels, which in turn influence stroke outcomes. Whether ALT has potential neuroprotective effects or is an indicator of frailty in AIS patients remains unknown. This retrospective analysis examined 572 AIS patients in Beijing Luhe Hospital between August 2020 and June 2021. Patient demographics and laboratory results were assembled. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) was used to analyze stroke severity. Modified Rankin Score (mRS) determined stroke outcome 3 months after AIS, with mRS≤2 indicating a favorable outcome. Based on serum ALT measurements, patients were classified into three tertiles (T1-T3). Binary logistic regression analysis evaluated the correlation between ALT tertiles and AIS outcomes. Of the patients, 66 exhibited unfavorable outcomes. The median ALT level in this group was 13 (IQR: 11–18.25), which was lower than in the favorable outcomes cohort (16; IQR: 11–22). A decline in ALT corresponded with a higher incidence of poor outcomes at 3 months (T1, 15.5 %; T2, 11.4 %; T3, 7.0 %; p = 0.03). The lowest ALT tertile (T1) was independently linked to an adverse 3-month outcome (OR 2.50 95 %CI 1.24–5.07, p = 0.038) compared to the highest tertile. ALT levels demonstrated no correlation with age (T1, 62.59 ± 12.64; T2, 64.01 ± 11.47; T3, 65.12 ± 11.27; p > 0.05). Regardless of age, lower serum ALT levels are independently associated with poorer outcomes in AIS patients. This finding suggests the potential pivotal part of the liver in AIS outcomes, highlighting the need to consider both neurological and liver functions post-stroke. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the most common causes of liver disease in children and adolescents. Although several reports have confirmed the significant correlation between NAFLD and growth hormone (GH)-insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1) axis, no study further investigates whether or not recombinant human GH (rhGH) treatment can improve NAFLD in obese children. Methods This study was a randomized, open-label study comprising 44 boys with obesity and NAFLD (11.76 ± 1.67 year) to evaluate the effects of 6 months of rhGH administration for boys with obesity and NAFLD. The subjects were randomized divided into treatment group (subjects with recombinant human GH (rhGH)) and control group for 6 months. Results After 6 months, IGF-1 increased significantly during rhGH treatment, in comparison with the control group (582.45 ± 133.00 vs. 359.64 ± 129.00 ng/ml; p

Cyclosporine (CsA) is an immunosuppressive agent that specifically inhibits T cell‐related immune responses. There is little evidence regarding the association between low‐dose CsA administration and abnormal hepatic function in dermatology patients. This study aimed to examine the association between the cumulative dose of CsA and liver enzyme abnormalities obtained from peripheral blood tests in patients with skin diseases. A retrospective single‐center study of 697 patients who were prescribed CsA for skin disease in the outpatient dermatology clinic between 2015 and 2019 were performed. Multiple logistic regression with confounder adjustment was performed to assess the association between the cumulative dose of CsA and liver enzyme abnormalities. Compared to patients with the lowest cumulative dose of CsA (˂7.0 g), patients with the highest cumulative dose of CsA (≥30.6 g) were significantly associated with an increased likelihood of developing liver enzyme abnormalities (odds ratio [OR] = 1.96; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02–3.79). In the stratified analysis, patients with the highest cumulative dose of CsA (≥30.6 g) were significantly associated with a 1.5‐or higher alanine aminotransferase elevation from baseline (OR = 2.26, CI = 1.08–4.73). Patients prescribed long‐term, low‐dose CsA up to a high cumulative dose (≥30.6 g) may be associated with an increased risk of developing liver enzyme abnormalities. However, these liver enzyme elevations were not severe in magnitude and were reversible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obesity‐induced inflammation may independently disturb the function of critical organs such as liver. This study aimed to investigate the association of obesity with serum levels of biomarkers of liver function including alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT) in adult women. Methods: This cross‐sectional study was carried out on 360 adult women in the summer of 2020 in Tehran, Iran. The participants were categorized into two groups based on their body mass index (BMI≤29.9 and BMI > 30). The serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP and GGT were measured. Logistic regression method was used to assess the association between BMI and liver enzymes after adjusting for the confounders. Results: The mean BMI in non‐obese and obese groups was 26.32 ± 2.61 and 33.40 ± 2.80 kg/m2, respectively (p =.01). A significant association was found between BMI with ALT (β =.16, p =.002) and GGT (β =.19, p =.01) enzymes after adjustment for age. The association between BMI and GGT remained significant after further adjustments for smoking, alcohol use, physical activity and educational status. There was no significant association between BMI and liver enzymes after adjustment for dietary intake. Conclusions: Obesity was associated with the level of serum liver enzymes. However, adjustment for dietary intake disappeared the significant results. Further studies are needed to determine the independent effects of obesity on the liver function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: There is limited evidence about the association of healthy lifestyle and all-cause mortality in individuals with metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). We aimed to examine this association and compare it with the association in those without MAFLD. Methods: A prospective cohort study was performed and linked mortality data through 2019 in the National Health Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES 1999–2010). A healthy lifestyle score was constructed from cigarette smoking, alcohol drinking, healthy eating score, and leisure-time physical activity. Risk stratification was conducted in participants with MAFLD by fibrosis biomarkers and liver enzymes. Survey-weight adjusted Cox regression was used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and confidence intervals (CIs) for all-cause mortality associated with healthy lifestyle. Results: There was a protective association between healthy lifestyle and all-cause mortality in participants with MAFLD (HR per 1-unit increase of healthy lifestyle score 0.77 [95% CI 0.69–0.85]), with no difference from the association in participants without MAFLD (HR 0.77 [0.72–0.82]). In participants with MAFLD, the associations tended to be stronger in those with lower risk of advanced fibrosis (HR per 1-unit increase of healthy lifestyle score 0.64 [0.50–0.79] for low NAFLD fibrosis score [NFS] and 0.84 [0.75–0.93] for high NFS, p-value for interaction 0.02), but did not differ by liver enzymes. The results for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) mirrored those for MAFLD. Conclusions: Healthy lifestyle showed protective associations with all-cause mortality regardless of MAFLD status, and the associations tended to be stronger in those with lower risk of advanced fibrosis. Timely lifestyle modification matters for individuals with MAFLD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elevated levels of liver enzymes are the main markers of liver dysfunction. Liver enzymes are the important indicators of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in the general population. Previous randomised clinical trials (RCT) investigated the effects of Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) as a plant-based diet on features of NAFLD like liver enzymes, but their results are contradictory. This study aimed to systematically review and meta-analyse RCT investigating the effect of MedDiet on liver enzymes. PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar were searched until December 2020. A total of ten RCT (n 705 participants) evaluating the effect of MedDiet on liver enzymes including aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT) and γ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) were included. A random effects model was used to estimate the pooled effect size. To evaluate the heterogeneity among the included studies, the Cochran's Q-test and I-squared test were used. The MedDiet significantly reduced AST (weighted mean difference (WMD) = −0·38 IU/l; 95 % CI − 0·73, −0·03 IU/l; P = 0·03) and GGT (WMD = −0·16 IU/l; 95 % CI − 0·32, −0·006 IU/l; P = 0·04) but had no significant effect on ALT (WMD = −0·55 IU/l; 95 % CI − 1·25, 0·13 IU/l; P = 0·11). However, sensitivity analysis revealed that the overall effects of MedDiet on AST, GGT and ALT were significantly influenced by removing some studies. There was no publication bias based on Begg's and Egger's tests. Generally, MedDiet can improve liver enzymes. To better conclusion, further RCT investigating the effect of MedDiet on liver enzymes, especially in patients with NAFLD, are still required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cholesterol is a fatty molecule required by the body for the formation of cell membranes. It is produced by the liver and can also be Meat and eggs are examples of animal goods. A cigarette is a considerable risk factor for vascular blood system and respiratory disorders, as well as it is extremely addictive. When compared to non-tobacco users, tobacco users have a considerable rise in total cholesterol levels. AS well as smoking cigarettes is one of the most common causes of death worldwide. The effects of smoking on haematological markers are acute and chronic and impact biological parameters (kidney and liver) functions. The study involved fifty smokers in Baghdad city who smoked between 15 and 25 cigarettes daily. The group consists of 50 smokers between the ages of 18 and 55, as well as 50 non-smokers in about the same age range for combined analysis. Aim: The study's goal is to explain the impact of cigarette smoking on total cholesterol levels compared to a non-smoker and also the study looked at the impact of cigarette smoking on several factors that are thought to be indicators of serious health problems in the blood parameters human body Materials and Methods: A cross-control study was carried out in the outpatient Clinic in Baghdad, Iraq. This outpatient facility is the city's major general center, where a considerably large population is attending. The study was carried out from October 2021 to April 2022. Participants in this study included adult smokers and non-smokers of both genders, serum specimens were pooled from blood specimens from each individual. Each serum specimen was investigated for cholesterol content following, liver functions, and kidney functions [1] and This study included adult smokers and non-smokers, both males and females, who had their whole blood cell count examined by a CELL-DYN 3700 completely automatic haematological analyzer. Results: Results revealed that there was a large difference in the average total cholesterol, Non-smokers and smokers have different values. In exclusive cigarette users, daily cigarette smoking total cholesterol levels (271.466 mg/dl). None smoker individual's sera were showing normal cholesterol values. As well as Hemoglobin (Hb, 16.445 g/dl), packed cell volume (PCV, 59.489 %), and platelets (PLT, 219.127 x1012/L) all showed substantial increases in the study compared to non-smoking. About serum biochemical measures, similar results were seen in kidney function (urea, 56.240 mg/dl; creatinine, 2.361 mg/dl) as well as liver function (alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 140.890 U/l; aspartate transaminase (AST) 145.291U/l; alkaline phosphatase (ALP) 210.2000U/l). Conclusion: Cholesterol levels are upregulation in current smokers of a cigarette compared to non-smokers, which is similar to findings in other populations. Furthermore, current cigarette smokers have higher levels of bad total cholesterol, which is linked to adverse cardiovascular consequences than non-smokers. Smoking influences blood and biochemical markers, according to our findings. The bulk of the parameters showed that smokers had greater values than non-smokers. Haemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV), and platelets were the most common (PLT). renal functions, a liver enzyme. The direct source of the observed variances in our study is still unknown, with the hope that future research will shed light on it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]