New research could detect liver damage faster, more accurately

University of Liverpool researchers are conducting a new study that could make liver detection a faster and more accurate process.

The team discovered that the presence of specific proteins in the blood are indicative of early liver cell damage and can determine the point at which cell death occurred, the type of cell death, and the extent of any damage.

Scientists induced a mild paracetamol overdose in mice and discovered that two proteins released by cells in the liver provided a detailed picture of the level of cell damage.

"The findings are significant because knowing how the cells die will allow development of medicines to help them survive, and may also distinguish patients who have severe injury and require intensive care from those who have mild injury," said Dominic Williams.

"The research has implications for determining how much stress has been placed on the liver in patients who are worried about an accidental overdose, as well as the more serious overdose cases."