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Prolonged liver fluke infection combined with alcoholization: An experimental mouse model
Damira Avgustinovich1, Alena Kizimenko2, Mariya Marenina3
1Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch of Russian Academy of Sciences (SB RAS), Novosibirsk, Russia; Institute of Solid State Chemistry and Mechanochemistry, SB RAS, Novosibirsk, Russia.
Experimental Parasitology
|October 13, 2022
Summary
Combining Opisthorchis felineus (OF) infection with prolonged alcohol consumption (Eth) significantly damages the liver. This double hit causes severe inflammation, fibrosis, and organ damage, highlighting the detrimental effects of co-exposure.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Parasitology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Liver fluke infections impair bile excretion.
- Excessive alcohol consumption is a primary cause of liver disease worldwide.
- The combined impact of these factors on liver health requires comprehensive assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the liver's condition and inflammation in mice exposed to both Opisthorchis felineus infection and chronic ethanol consumption.
- To compare the effects of individual factors (infection or ethanol) versus combined exposure on liver pathology and systemic inflammation.
Main Methods:
- C57BL/6 mice were gradually accustomed to 20% ethanol (Eth).
- Subgroups were infected with Opisthorchis felineus (OF).
- Mice were grouped into control, OF, Eth, and Eth + OF for comparative analysis.
Main Results:
- Combined Eth + OF exposure led to increased relative liver weight, elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST), and bile duct enlargement.
- Eth + OF mice showed higher helminth burden and more severe cholangiofibrosis and periductal fibrosis compared to OF mice.
- Significant splenomegaly, elevated IL-6, and increased leukocyte/monocyte counts indicated substantial systemic inflammation in Eth + OF mice.
Conclusions:
- The experimental model demonstrates that combined Opisthorchis felineus infection and chronic alcoholization act as a detrimental 'double hit' to the liver.
- This synergistic effect exacerbates liver damage, promotes fibrosis, and induces significant systemic inflammation.
- The findings underscore the severe health risks associated with co-exposure to parasitic liver flukes and excessive alcohol consumption.
