Gut-liver axis

Definition

The gut-liver axis is the bidirectional relationship between the gastrointestinal tract and the liver, where they communicate through various pathways including the portal vein and bile ducts. This interaction plays a crucial role in maintaining metabolic, immune, and inflammatory homeostasis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The gut-liver axis involves both microbial metabolites and immune signaling molecules that travel from the gut to the liver.
2. Dysregulation of this axis can contribute to liver diseases such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and cirrhosis.
3. Probiotics and prebiotics can influence the gut-liver axis by altering gut microbiota composition.
4. The portal vein is a major blood vessel that carries nutrient-rich blood from the gastrointestinal organs to the liver.
5. Gut barrier integrity is essential for preventing harmful substances like endotoxins from reaching the liver through this axis.

Review Questions

• How does dysregulation of the gut-liver axis contribute to liver diseases?
• What role does the portal vein play in the gut-liver axis?
• How can probiotics affect the gut-liver axis?

Related terms

Probiotics:

Live beneficial bacteria that can positively influence gut health

Portal Vein: Major blood vessel transporting nutrients from digestive organs to the liver

Endotoxins: Harmful substances released by certain bacteria that can cause inflammation