The liver has a segmental structure, with each lobe consisting of four segments. The liver has many important functions in the body, from the synthesis of blood clotting factors to the production and secretion of bile, the production and storage of selected proteins, the synthesis of enzymes, heparin, the storage of vitamins and iron and the conversion of purine into uric acid. This organ filters our blood of toxic ammonia or other toxins and, importantly, produces heat and buffers blood glucose levels.

The human liver is exposed to various types of damage every day, such as poisoning, alcohol, viral infections and the involvement of parasites. These and other diseases can lead to cirrhosis of the liver, liver failure, cancer or jaundice.

Recent studies conducted at the University of California, San Diego and the University of San Francisco on animal material (mice), show that the liver has a strong regenerative capacity. In fact, certain cells have been shown to regenerate this organ without the risk of tumour recurrence. So-called hybrid hepatocytes, which form new tissue, are supposed to be responsible for this process. Importantly, the cells grow and multiply (divide very rapidly) without leading to tumour growth. Mention should also be made here of the newly developed AAV virus, which has the ability to "force" damaged cells into repair processes. When administered to an affected person (injection into the body), the damaged cells begin to regenerate and the liver partially recovers.

These discoveries offer the chance to save many patients affected by various types of liver disease. Importantly, they may help to inhibit the fibrosis process in this organ.