Gut Bacteria Linked to Deadly Liver Cancer
Latest News: Scientists have discovered that harmful gut bacteria could be driving the rise in cases of deadly liver cancer. The study highlights a new mechanism by which gut microbes influence liver fat and sugar production, raising the risk of liver disease.
Beyond Alcohol: Diet and Liver Health
While excessive alcohol intake is a well-known cause of liver disease, experts warn that poor diet and factors that increase fat in the liver can also significantly raise risk. Liver disease is the only major illness in which death rates have steadily increased, quadrupling over the past 50 years, according to the British Liver Trust.
Canadian Study Uncovers Key Molecule
Researchers in Canada have identified a molecule produced by gut bacteria that triggers the liver to generate excess sugar and fat. Published in Cell Metabolism, the study suggests that targeting this microbial source could help control blood sugar and reduce liver damage, particularly in high-risk obese patients.
New Approach to Treating Liver Disease
Professor Jonathan Schetzer, lead author from McMaster University, explained: “Instead of targeting hormones or the liver directly, we’re intercepting a microbial fuel source before it can do harm.” The study builds on knowledge from the Cori cycle, demonstrating how gut bacteria influence liver metabolism through a lesser-known molecule called D-lactate.
Obesity and D-Lactate
The study found that obese individuals have higher levels of D-lactate, primarily from gut microbes, which raises blood sugar and liver fat more dramatically than the commonly known L-lactate. Researchers developed a biodegradable “gut substrate trap” to bind D-lactate and prevent its absorption.
Promising Results in Mice
Mice fed the gut trap showed lower blood glucose levels, improved insulin resistance, and reduced liver inflammation and fibrosis, without changes to diet or body weight. These findings point to a potential new way to treat metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
MASLD: A Growing Public Health Concern
MASLD affects roughly 1 in 5 people in the UK and is caused by fat accumulation in the liver, leading to inflammation and scarring over time. Untreated, it can progress to cirrhosis, liver failure, or cancer, with obese individuals and type 2 diabetics at higher risk.
Awareness and Early Intervention
Professor Philip Newsome of King’s College London emphasized that many people are unaware they have MASLD until serious damage occurs. Fat accumulation and uncontrolled blood sugar, not just alcohol, can lead to severe liver scarring. Symptoms, if present, may include fatigue, malaise, or discomfort in the upper right abdomen.
