Gut microbiota and metabolite profiles in HBV cirrhosis with persistent liver enzyme abnormalities
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background and aims: Dysbiosis of gut microbiota and metabolic disturbances are implicated in the progression of hepatitis B virus (HBV)-related cirrhosis. However, the mechanisms underlying these associations, particularly in patients with undetectable HBV-DNA following antiviral therapy but persistent liver enzyme abnormalities, remain poorly understood. This study aimed to characterize the gut microbiota and metabolic profiles in this patient population to elucidate potential mechanisms and identify biomarkers. Materials and methods: Sixty-five patients with HBV-related cirrhosis were enrolled. Fecal samples were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and untargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to assess gut microbiota composition and metabolite profiles. Correlation analyses and multivariate statistical approaches were employed to explore relationships between microbiota, metabolites, and clinical parameters. Results: abundance was positively correlated with ursocholic acid (UCA), which was significantly reduced in patients with abnormal liver enzymes. UCA levels were inversely associated with AST, TBIL, and ALP, suggesting its potential role in modulating liver enzyme activity. Conclusion: These findings highlight the gut-liver axis as a driver of persistent liver injury and identify microbial (e.g., Blautia) and metabolic (e.g., UCA, TDC) signatures as potential biomarkers for HBV cirrhosis.
Source: Frontiers in Microbiology
Authors: Huan He, Ruixue Zou, Xinyi Liao, Yinghua Lan
Language: English
Topic: Gut microbiota and health
Subfield: Molecular Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W4415017247