Introduction to Stem Cell Therapy for Acute Toxic Hepatitis
Acute toxic hepatitis (ATH) is a severe liver disease characterized by rapid-onset inflammation and liver cell damage caused by exposure to hepatotoxic agents. 尽管医疗保健取得了进步, the treatment options for ATH remain limited, and liver transplantation is often the only life-saving intervention. 干细胞疗法 has emerged as a promising therapeutic approach for ATH, 提供再生受损的肝组织并恢复肝功能的潜力.
Pathogenesis of Acute Toxic Hepatitis and Role of Stem Cells
ATH is triggered by various hepatotoxins, including drugs, toxins, and environmental pollutants. These agents induce oxidative stress, 线粒体功能障碍, and apoptosis in hepatocytes, leading to liver inflammation and necrosis. 干细胞, 特别是间充质干细胞 (MSC) 和肝干细胞 (HSC), have shown promise in mitigating these pathological processes. MSCs possess anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties that can suppress liver inflammation and promote tissue repair. HSC, 另一方面, have the capacity to differentiate into functional hepatocytes, potentially replacing damaged liver cells and restoring liver function.
Preclinical Animal Studies of Stem Cell Therapy for Hepatitis
Preclinical studies in animal models of ATH have demonstrated the efficacy of 干细胞疗法. In animal models of acetaminophen-induced liver injury, administration of MSCs has been shown to reduce liver inflammation, 促进肝细胞再生, 并改善肝功能. 相似地, studies using HSCs have shown promising results, with transplanted HSCs successfully differentiating into functional hepatocytes and restoring liver function. These preclinical findings provide a strong rationale for further investigation of 干细胞疗法 in the treatment of ATH.