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Project
Modulation of parasympathetic nerve activity as a strategy for the treatment of the hyperdynamic circulation in portal hypertension
Cirrhosis is the final stage in the evolution of chronic liver diseases. The acute deterioration of liver function, triggered by a precipitating event such as infection or variceal bleeding, in a patient with previously well compensated cirrhosis is referred to as acute-on-chronic liver failure (AoCLF). Though it is not absolutely clear what pathophysiological mechanism(s) lead to AoCLF, current hypotheses emphasize an important role of uncontrolled systemic inflammation.
The vagal nerve plays an important role in inflammation and in the development of the hyperdynamic circulation associated with cirrhosis. Furthermore, vagal neurotransmitters and electric vagal stimulation can improve portal hypertension, a major complication of cirrhosis.
The aim of this project is to investigate both the short- and long-term intrahepatic and systemic effects of acute bleeding in a rat model of AoCLF, as well as their potential reversibility. Furthermore, we will examine the intrahepatic and the systemic hemodynamic impact of modulation of vagal nerve activity in cirrhotic rats as well as in the rat model of AoCLF.
Exploring the role of the vagal nerve in chronic liver disease and AoCLF will possibly create opportunities to develop a causal treatment option for a disorder with high mortality that so far has no targeted treatment.
The vagal nerve plays an important role in inflammation and in the development of the hyperdynamic circulation associated with cirrhosis. Furthermore, vagal neurotransmitters and electric vagal stimulation can improve portal hypertension, a major complication of cirrhosis.
The aim of this project is to investigate both the short- and long-term intrahepatic and systemic effects of acute bleeding in a rat model of AoCLF, as well as their potential reversibility. Furthermore, we will examine the intrahepatic and the systemic hemodynamic impact of modulation of vagal nerve activity in cirrhotic rats as well as in the rat model of AoCLF.
Exploring the role of the vagal nerve in chronic liver disease and AoCLF will possibly create opportunities to develop a causal treatment option for a disorder with high mortality that so far has no targeted treatment.
Date:1 Sep 2009 → 30 Jun 2010
Keywords:Nerve activity
Disciplines:Paediatrics and neonatology, Nursing, Immunology, Gastro-enterology and hepatology
Project type:PhD project