image: This research image shows a section of an extrahepatic bile duct in a neonatal mice, where the inside is obstructed and exhibits residual expression of the enzyme called MMP-7 (shown in brown). Researchers report Nov. 22 in Science Translational Medicine that MMP-7 is a strong biomarker candidate for early diagnosis of biliary atresia, the most common cause of liver transplants for children in the United States. This could lead to earlier lifesaving treatments and possibly avoid more invasive procedures like liver transplant. view more
Credit: Cincinnati Children's