New research suggests that in severe forms of alcohol-associated liver disease, some liver cells can become trapped in an intermediate state between their mature identity and a progenitor-like state. In this state, they lose some of their normal functions and cannot adequately complete the regeneration process.
The liver has a natural regeneration capacity. After a significant injury, surviving hepatocytes can temporarily alter their state, multiply, and regain characteristics of mature liver cells, contributing to tissue reconstruction.
However, this regeneration capacity can be compromised in advanced forms of alcohol-associated liver disease. Affected cells become blocked in the intermediate state, preventing complete recovery even when the person stops consuming alcohol.
