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Cure for Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is the scarring of the liver. Next to your skin, the liver is the largest organ in the body. The liver has a variety of responsibilities, from getting rid of toxic substances to producing vital nutrients that help fight infection. Damage to the liver brought on by sickness or abuse, such as drinking, can leave the liver scarred and unable to function properly. If caught early, cirrhosis can be turned around.

  1. Repairing Damage

    • The liver is an incredible organ--it can repair itself. But with cirrhosis, the scarring that has already happened will remain. One of the keys to preventing further damage is to stop the underlying causes. If alcohol has caused the damage, then alcohol needs to be cut from the diet. If it's a hepatitis infection, then doctors will treat the hepatitis. The key is to allow the liver to take care of itself before it is unable to.

    Stenting The Liver

    • With cases of cirrhosis, it's not uncommon to find that the scarring interferes with the flow of blood. Often the liver can be stented, which can open up closed and constricted arteries, reducing pressure and helping with the smooth flow of blood.

    A Possible Cure

    • A team of researchers from the University of California in San Diego may have discovered a cure for cirrhosis of the liver. In a yet-to-be-published study, the team reports that a modified protein has been found that could help block the protein RSK. RSK is responsible for the activation of collagen which, when it comes out in excessive amounts, causes scarring of the liver. By blocking the RSK protein from doing its job, scarring could someday be a thing of the past.

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