New Molecule Protects Against Acute Liver Failure in Study

Researchers at Karolinska Institutet have developed a molecule that strengthens cells' ability to repair oxidative DNA damage. In mouse models of acute liver failure, the molecule reduced liver damage and improved survival, while cultured human liver cells became more resistant to injury caused by paracetamol. The findings are published in Advanced Science.

Acute liver failure is a life-threatening condition in which liver cells are rapidly lost. One of the most common causes is an overdose of paracetamol, which can trigger extensive oxidative stress, damage DNA and impair mitochondria, the structures that produce energy in cells.

In the study, the researchers developed a compound called CMM-98 that enhances the activity of OGG1, an enzyme involved in repairing oxidative DNA damage. Laboratory experiments showed that the molecule enhanced a key step in DNA repair, helping cells clear certain forms of oxidative DNA damage more efficiently.