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Activated intestinal macrophages in liver cirrhosis produced nitric oxide, disrupted intestinal barrier

Activated CD14+Trem-1+iNOS+ intestinal macrophages, plus increased levels of nitric oxide, IL-6 and claudin-2 levels were observed in 29 duodenum patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis, according to data presented at the International Liver Congress in Barcelona, Spain.

Researchers also observed increased plasma LPS levels and increased numbers of activated duodenal macrophages expressing CD33+/CD14+/Trem-1+, synthesizing iNOS and functionally secreting nitric oxide.

Upregulation at the mRNA level of IL-8, CCL-2, CCL-13, NOS2 was observed. Increased levels of IL-8 and IL-6 were detected in serum and culture supernatant of cirrhosis patients.

“The epithelial barrier was not structurally altered by electron microscopy but increased expression of the ‘pore’ forming tight junction claudin-2 levels were detected by western blot,” the researchers wrote.

For more information:

Du Plessis J. Abstract #3. Presented at: The International Liver Congress, April 18-22, Barcelona, Spain.