Pathological Features of New Animal Models for Primary Biliary Cirrhosis

• Main Authors: Koichi Tsuneyama, Yuki Moritoki, Kentaro Kikuchi, Yasuni Nakanuma
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Hindawi Limited 2012-01-01
• Series: International Journal of Hepatology
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1155/2012/403954

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is an autoimmune liver disease characterized by immune mediated biliary damage and frequent appearance of autoantibodies against mitochondrial enzymes. There is almost no useful animal model that is globally recognized and routinely used, however, several unique animal models manifested the characteristic clinical and pathological features of human PBC within the last 5 years. Herein, we compare the pathological features of previously reported and newly introduced novel animal models of PBC. Knowledge and understanding of the strengths and the limitations of each animal model have led to the development of promising therapies and novel tools to characterize these clinical conditions. Moreover, suitability of the model for the intended purpose should be confirmed by further research and analysis.