The role of autophagy and the intrahepatic vascular resistance in the pathophysiology of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

In our study we focus on disturbances in the liver blood flow. Previously we showed that severe steatosis leads to a significant rise in blood pressure in the portal system ("portal hypertension") preceding the occurrence of inflammation. The degreeof portal hypertension appeared to be related to the severity of steatosis. These findings points towards a significant increase in intrahepatic resistance and subsequent impairment of liver blood flow. The intrahepatic resistance has, however, to date never been directly investigated in NAFLD.In the current study we will therefore focus on the intrahepatic resistance and its (functional and morphological) determinants in a rat model of severe steatosis. Potential contribution of different cell types (Kupffer cells, stellate cells) and of different mediators to intrahepatic vascular tone (e.g. Nitric Oxid) will be examined in detail.

Keywords:LIVER STEATOSIS

Disciplines:Gastro-enterology and hepatology

Project type:Collaboration project