Intereukin-6 (IL-6) is crucial in liver health, acting through complex pathways. While IL-6 promotes liver regeneration via the gp130-STAT3 and SRC/YAP pathways, its overproduction, especially in aging and chronic inflammation, can lead to serious issues like liver steatosis and fibrosis.
Molecular Insights:
Liver Regeneration: IL-6 reprograms hepatocytes into hepatic progenitor cells, boosting liver repair.
Liver Aging: Senescent cells in the liver produce IL-6, which aids regeneration but also contributes to age-related diseases.
Liver Diseases: Chronic IL-6 exposure impairs lipid metabolism and elevates fibrosis risk. High IL-6/STAT3 activity is linked to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Balance is Key:
Too much IL-6 can harm, leading to inflammation and disease, while too little can impair the liver's ability to regenerate.
Wang, M.-J., et al., The double-edged effects of IL-6 in liver regeneration, aging, inflammation, and diseases. Experimental Hematology & Oncology, 2024. 13(1): p. 62.
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