Carbon monoxide, a two-face for the protection of the liver.
Carbon monoxide is generally believed to be a 'toxic' gas molecule due to its binding capability with hemoglobin. Overexposure to carbon monoxide leads to a hypoxic state that may cause the death of a mammalian. In contrast, directly exposure of carbon monoxide may protect cells or organs from various disease insults. The paradox effects of carbon monoxide might vary on the ways of exposure and the amounts being exposed. Here we highlighted the characteristics of this gas molecule and summarized its protective effects and therapeutic potentials in liver diseases and liver transplantation.
Department of Hepatobiliary and Transplant Surgery, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany.
Florian
F
Bösch
Tung Yu
TY
Tsui
D000818:Animals; D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D017209:Apoptosis / Q000187:drug effects; D002248:Carbon Monoxide / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006418:Heme / Q000378:metabolism; D022781:Hepatocytes / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D008099:Liver / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D008103:Liver Cirrhosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D016031:Liver Transplantation; D020011:Protective Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000893:Anti-Inflammatory Agents; D020011:Protective Agents; D006418:Heme; D002248:Carbon Monoxide