Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Advanced Liver Disease: Emerging Concepts
Ingrid W Zhang1,2, Cristina López-Vicario1,2,3, Marta Duran-Güell1,2
1Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics Service, Hospital Clínic-IDIBAPS, Barcelona, Spain.
Frontiers in Molecular Biosciences
|December 10, 2021
Summary
Mitochondrial dysfunction significantly impacts liver cirrhosis, especially in acute decompensation and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). This review details alterations and methods for studying mitochondrial function in liver disease.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Hepatology
Background:
- Mitochondria generate cellular energy (ATP) and are vital for cellular function.
- Mitochondrial dysfunction, a decline in energy production or increased reactive oxygen species, contributes to disease pathogenesis.
- Liver diseases, particularly cirrhosis and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF), involve significant mitochondrial dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review alterations in mitochondrial function in liver cirrhosis, focusing on acutely decompensated liver cirrhosis and ACLF.
- To highlight the clinical variability of mitochondrial diseases and the need for multi-angled research approaches.
- To present methodological approaches for assessing mitochondrial function in liver disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of studies on mitochondrial function in liver tissue and circulating leukocytes from patients with liver cirrhosis.
- Discussion of assays for metabolic flux analysis (Biolog's MitoPlates).
- Description of methods for assessing mitochondrial respiration (high-resolution respirometry via Oroboros' O2k and Agilent Seahorse XF technology).
Main Results:
- Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key feature in liver cirrhosis, acutely decompensated liver cirrhosis, and ACLF.
- Alterations in mitochondrial function can be detected in both liver tissue and circulating leukocytes.
- Various advanced techniques are available for comprehensive analysis of mitochondrial function.
Conclusions:
- Understanding mitochondrial dysfunction is crucial for unraveling liver disease pathogenesis.
- A multi-faceted approach combining tissue and cellular analysis with advanced technologies is essential.
- Further research into mitochondrial function in liver disease can inform therapeutic strategies.
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