Exploration of Liver-gut Axis Through Identification of Liver Disease-specific Microbiome

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the specific gut microbiomes found in patients with chronic refractory liver diseases, including autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and liver abscess. The study aims to understand the role of the gut-liver axis in the causes and progression of these liver conditions. This observational study includes patients as well as their household members as controls. Participants include adults aged 19 and older diagnosed with one of the specified liver diseases, along with their healthy household members. Blood and stool samples will be collected and analyzed to identify differences in microbiomes between patients and controls. The study uses non-probability sampling methods to gather these biological samples for detailed analysis. During the study, participants will provide blood and stool samples at the start and between 3 to 12 months after enrollment. Researchers will perform statistical tests such as Chi-square, t-tests, and Pearson's coefficient analyses on these samples to assess changes over time. The study is conducted at Chungnam National University Hospital and is expected to run until July 2029, with participant involvement including sample collection and monitoring of microbiome changes.

Liver-gut Axis Study Through Identification of Liver Disease-specific Microbiome