Because of the anatomical position and its unique vascular system, the liver is susceptible to the exposure to the microbial products from the gut. Although large amount of microbes colonize in the gut, translocation of the microbes or microbial products into the liver and systemic circulation is prevented by gut epithelial barrier function and cleansing and detoxifying functions of the liver in healthy subjects. However, when the intestinal barrier function is disrupted, large amount of bacterial products can enter into the liver and systemic circulation and induce inflammation through their receptors. Nowadays, there have been various reports suggesting the role of gut flora and bacterial translocation in the pathogenesis of chronic liver disease and portal hypertension. This review summarizes the current knowledge about bacterial translocation and its contribution to the pathogenesis of chronic liver diseases and portal hypertension.
Antigens, CD14/metabolism ; Bacterial Translocation ; Gastrointestinal Tract/*microbiology ; Humans ; Hypertension, Portal/metabolism/*pathology ; Liver/metabolism/*microbiology ; Liver Cirrhosis/metabolism/*pathology ; Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear/metabolism ; Toll-Like Receptors/metabolism

Alcoholic liver disease continues to be a significant cause of liver-related morbidity and mortality throughout the world. A number of diagnostic and prognostic models have been developed in the management of this condition, although specific roles for liver biopsy still remain particularly in the setting of alcoholic hepatitis. Despite a large number of recent treatment trials, the ideal pharmacotherapy approach remains undefined. Most essential is the supportive care and focus on abstinence and nutrition. Owing in part to a great deal of attention from governmental funding sources, a number of new treatment approaches are undergoing rigorous evaluation, hopefully providing future treatment options in this very severe condition.
Adrenal Cortex Hormones/therapeutic use ; Biomarkers/analysis ; Humans ; Interleukins/metabolism ; Liver Diseases, Alcoholic/diagnosis/*therapy ; Liver Transplantation ; Pentoxifylline/therapeutic use ; Prognosis

Alcoholic hepatitis is an important type of alcohol-associated liver disease characterized by acute liver inflammation caused by prolonged heavy alcohol use.In the present article,the pathogenesis,clinical characteristics,diagnosis,current therapies aud future treatment strategies of alcoholic hepatitis are summarized and reviewed in order to help the hepatologists to better understand this kind of disease in clinical practice.