DIEXF
Diet-Induced Experimental Fibrosis (DIEF): An In-Depth Exploration
Introduction
Diet-induced experimental fibrosis (DIEF) is a condition characterized by the excessive deposition of fibrous tissue in the liver. This condition is commonly used as a model to study the development of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, which are major health concerns worldwide.
Description
DIEF is induced by feeding laboratory animals a diet high in fat and cholesterol. This diet leads to the accumulation of triglycerides in the liver, which triggers an inflammatory response. The inflammation results in the activation of hepatic stellate cells, which are responsible for producing collagen, the main component of fibrosis.
Associated Diseases
DIEF is associated with a number of diseases, including:
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): A condition characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the liver without significant alcohol consumption.
- Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH): A more severe form of NAFLD that involves inflammation and damage to the liver.
- Cirrhosis: An advanced stage of liver disease characterized by irreversible scarring and loss of liver function.
Did you Know ?
According to the American Liver Foundation, approximately 25% of adults in the United States have NAFLD, and 10% of these individuals will progress to NASH.
