Novel genes and protein in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: potential basis of a serum-based assessment of disease sta [ 2003 - 2004 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Peter Wilce (Principal investigator) ,  A/Pr Julie Jonsson ,  Paul Kroon ,  Prof Elizabeth Powell

Brief description The most common cause of elevated liver function tests is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NALFD is a spectrum of disease ranging from steatosis, to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a condition associated with the development of fibrosis in the majority of individuals. Approximately 20% and 3% of adults are affected with NAFLD and NASH, respectively, and NAFLD is expected to become the next major liver epidemic facing the western world, far exceeding the prevalence of chronic infection with the hepatitis C virus. We obtained liver biopsies from patients with NAFLD, 80% of whom had NASH, and determined the expression profile analysis of each subject using 19,200 element microarrays. Our data demonstrates the concordant differential expression of 130 genes, in subjects with NAFLD that were categorizes into 6 major metabolic and regulatory pathways. Many of these genes represented uncharacterised genes. Utilising an extensive bioinformatics approach we have been able to define the genes and their protein product. The use of these proteins as a diagnostic tool for the detection of NAFLD forms the basis of a provisional patent application. However, measurements of protein levels in tissue and sera from patients with NAFLD are needed for the development of a diagnostic method. Such information would also provide significant insight into the pathogenesis of NAFLD. The AIMS are: 1)                  Production of antibodies against proteins encoded by candidate genes                  Expression profile of candidate genes 3)                  Expression of proteins encoded by candidate genes in patients with NAFLD

Funding Amount $AUD 200,000.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Development Grants

Notes Development Grant