business / news / / Medical Xpress
Scientists have identified a protein in the body that may influence the progression of alcohol-associated liver disease and drinking behavior.
AQP9 facilitates acetaldehyde entry into the liver, worsening early-stage alcohol-related liver damage.
KEY POINTS
- Mice lacking AQP9 showed reduced binge-like alcohol consumption and delayed acetaldehyde clearance.
- AQP9 levels are significantly lower in humans with advanced alcohol-associated liver diseases.
- Reduced AQP9 leads to increased liver cell death and advanced disease due to prolonged acetaldehyde toxicity.
- AQP9 is identified as a potential therapeutic target for treating advanced liver disease and alcohol use disorder.
COMPANIES
Summarized by Newsio from Medical Xpress. How we summarize →