Propranolol ameliorates the development of portal-systemic shunting in a chronic murine schistosomiasis model of portal hypertension
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Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Early propranolol treatment significantly reduced portal pressure and portal-systemic shunting in a murine model of schistosomiasis. This pharmacotherapy shows promise in preventing complications associated with chronic liver disease.
Area Of Science
- Hepatology
- Pharmacology
- Parasitology
Background
- Schistosomiasis mansoni causes chronic liver disease and portal hypertension.
- Portal-systemic shunting is a major complication of portal hypertension.
- Early intervention strategies are needed to prevent disease progression.
Purpose Of The Study
- To investigate the efficacy of early portal hypotensive pharmacotherapy in preventing portal-systemic shunting.
- To evaluate the effect of propranolol on portal pressure and flow in a murine model of schistosomiasis.
Main Methods
- C3H mice were infected with Schistosoma mansoni cercariae.
- Propranolol was administered orally for 6 weeks, starting at 5 weeks post-infection.
- Portal pressure, portal-systemic shunting, and portal venous inflow were measured 11 weeks post-infection.
Main Results
- Propranolol treatment significantly reduced portal pressure (7.9 vs. 10.8 mmHg) and portal-systemic shunting (2.5% vs. 12.2%).
- Portal venous inflow was reduced by 38% in propranolol-treated mice.
- No significant differences were observed in worm burden, liver granulomas, collagen content, or serum bile acids.
Conclusions
- Early propranolol administration can decrease or prevent portal-systemic shunting in chronic schistosomiasis.
- Reducing portal pressure and flow is a viable strategy for managing complications of liver disease.
- Pharmacotherapy targeting portal hemodynamics may be beneficial in schistosomiasis-induced liver disease.