Scientists from the Basque Center for Cooperative Research in Biosciences (CIC bioGUNE) and OWL Genomics have developed a blood test for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a progressive disease that can range from a simple accumulation of fat in the liver (steatosis) to a severe liver condition known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
The test is based on metabolomics technology and can distinguish simple steatosis from non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.
Scientists used a genetically modified mouse model to identify the biomarkers of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease they shared with humans.
They then analysed the blood samples of steatosis and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis patients to identify the biomarkers that can distinguish between the two liver conditions.
OWL Genomics has initiated the commercialisation of the test in Spain.
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