Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis Is Associated with Inflammation and Bacterial Translocation in Mice with CCl4-Induced Fibrosis
2011

Gut Microbiota Changes Linked to Inflammation and Bacterial Translocation in Mice with Liver Damage

Sample size: 75 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Gómez-Hurtado Isabel, Santacruz Arlette, Peiró Gloria, Zapater Pedro, Gutiérrez Ana, Pérez-Mateo Miguel, Sanz Yolanda, Francés Rubén

Primary Institution: Unidad Hepática, Hospital General Universitario, Alicante, Spain

Hypothesis

Microbiota composition may be affected and change along with the induction of experimental cirrhosis, affecting the inflammatory response.

Conclusion

Gut microbiota alterations are associated with the development of an inflammatory environment, fibrosis progression, and bacterial translocation in carbon tetrachloride-treated mice.

Supporting Evidence

  • Bacterial translocation episodes were less frequent in control mice than in treated animals.
  • Expression of pro-fibrogenic markers was significantly increased compared with control animals.
  • Pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 were significantly higher in treated mice.

Takeaway

This study found that changes in gut bacteria can lead to inflammation and make liver damage worse in mice.

Methodology

Liver damage was induced in Balb/c mice by administering carbon tetrachloride, and various biological samples were collected for analysis.

Limitations

The study was conducted in mice, which may not fully replicate human conditions.

Participant Demographics

Female Balb/c mice were used in the study.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0023037

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication