Israeli researchers discover gene that causes liver disease
The expression of the gene in an immune-system cell prevents the combating of liver scarring, heightening the risk of cirrhosis in drinkers and others.
In a development that may have implications for alcohol drinkers, researchers at Hadassah Hospital have connected a particular gene to cirrhosis, or potentially life-threatening liver scarring.
The research team, led professor Rifaat Safadi, the head of the hospital’s Liver Unit, found that people with a type of overexpression of a gene called Neuroligin 4 were predisposed to cirrhosis, which has many causes, including certain diseases and the consumption alcohol and some medications.
Une équipe israélienne identifie le gène à l’origine du cancer du foie
Israelis discover gene responsible for liver disease
Groundbreaking advance clears the way for future medications to better target a deadly problem.
http://israel21c.org/health/israelis-discover-gene-responsible-for-liver-disease/Haaretz