Scientists target liver scarring breakthrough

A university research team is exploring a new way to treat liver disease.

Researchers at the University of Sunderland, led by Dr Maria Teresa Borrello, lecturer in pharmaceutical and medicinal chemistry, in partnership with associate professor Dusan Ruzic and researchers from Serbia's University of Belgrade, have identified a promising approach to tackling liver fibrosis, a condition that causes scarring of the liver and can lead to failure or cancer. 

The team’s early-stage study, which began in a laboratory at Newcastle University and was continued at Sunderland after external funding was secured, focuses on blocking an enzyme called HDAC6, which plays a key role in the development of scar tissue.

Dr Borrello says the experimental treatment could offer the first step towards reversing or slowing liver fibrosis, which is currently without an approved drug.

She said: “So far, we’ve seen encouraging laboratory results showing that HDAC6 inhibitors – or blockers – reduce inflammation and cellular stress responses, both of which are key contributors to fibrosis.

“These findings support the idea that HDAC6 is a promising drug target for treating liver fibrosis. 

“We are also starting to understand more about how these compounds work at the molecular level, which is essential for designing better, safer treatments.

“In our lab, we developed two new drugs specifically designed to block HDAC6 activity.

“This discovery could form the basis of future treatments and offer hope for those living with chronic liver conditions.

“Our HDAC6 inhibitors provide a more targeted approach and by focusing on a key cause of fibrosis, we may be able to stop the disease before it reaches irreversible stages.

“By stopping or reversing the scarring process, we could reduce the need for liver transplants and improve long-term health outcomes.”

The British Liver Trust, the UK’s leading liver charity, has welcomed the findings.

Pamela Healy, chief executive, added: “While this new research is still in its early stages, it shows promise for developing treatments that could improve, and ultimately save, the lives of thousands affected by liver disease.”

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