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Publications

Journal Article Review Epublish

PubMed: 40806358 DOI: 10.3390/ijms26157226

Exploring Cirrhosis: Insights into Advances in Therapeutic Strategies.

Int J Mol Sci 26(15)

Authors: Magdalena Wiacek, Anna Adam, RafaƂ Studnicki, Igor Z Zubrzycki

Affiliations

  • Department of Medical and Health Sciences, Radom University, Chrobrego 27, 26-600 Radom, Poland.
  • Department of Physiotherapy, Medical University of GdaƄsk, 7 Dębinki Street, 80-211 GdaƄsk, Poland.

Abstract

Cirrhosis remains a significant global health burden, responsible for nearly 4% of annual deaths worldwide. Despite progress in antiviral therapies and public health measures, its prevalence has plateaued, particularly in regions affected by viral hepatitis, alcohol misuse, and metabolic syndrome. This review presents a comprehensive synthesis of the multifactorial drivers of cirrhosis, including hepatocyte injury, liver stellate cell activation, and immune-mediated inflammation. The emphasis is on the central role of metabolic dysfunction, characterized by mitochondrial impairment, altered lipid and glucose metabolism, hormonal imbalance, and systemic inflammation, in exacerbating disease progression. While current therapies may slow the progression of early-stage disease, they are very often ineffective in reversing established fibrosis. Emerging molecular strategies offer promising alternatives by targeting key pathogenic pathways. These include AMPK activators (e.g., metformin, AICAR), FGF21 analogs, and mitochondria-targeted agents (e.g., MitoQ, urolithin A, NAD+ precursors) to restore bioenergetic balance and reduce oxidative stress. Other approaches, such as mesenchymal stem cell therapy, inflammasome inhibition, and hormonal modulation, aim to suppress fibrogenesis and restore liver homeostasis. The integration of systems biology and multi-omics profiling supports patient stratification and precision medicine. This review highlights a shift toward mechanism-based interventions that have the potential to alter cirrhosis outcomes and improve patient survival.

MeSH

Cells, Microscopy, Electron, Scanning Transmission, Liver Cirrhosis, Multiple Chronic Conditions, Mitochondria, Liver, Precision Medicine, Therapeutics