Research Update: New Clues to PSC Progression
We have a significant update from the PSC Support-funded research project that aims to better predict how PSC progresses.
Researchers are using a cutting-edge technique called spatial transcriptomic analysis to create a highly detailed map of PSC liver tissue, showing which genes are active in specific cells and where they are located. They are analysing 16 liver tissue samples taken over time, including some from people who later developed cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer), which could help identify early warning signs.
Early findings show important differences in the immune environment of PSC compared to other liver conditions. For example, protective Kupffer cells appear better preserved in PSC, while a higher number of potentially damaging cytotoxic CD8 T cells have been observed.
This early research is providing crucial new insight into the unique immune processes of PSC. The goal is that this work will ultimately lead to better methods for detecting progressive disease earlier in the future.
Turning Ambition into Action in 2026:
Our Fortnight in Focus
At PSC Support, we want a world without PSC. We work tirelessly behind the scenes to drive research and improve lives. Here is a snapshot of what we've been up to:
Improving Care: We attended a major national clinical conference to equip general gastroenterologists and nurses with specialist knowledge, which helps ensure future work is better aligned with what people with PSC need by improving local care and pathways.
Progressing Research: Our 2024 investment into early-stage research to build necessary scientific evidence enabled Dr James Sun to secure major national funding to explore the genetic drivers of the disease. This foundational knowledge is essential for identifying potential new treatments.
Progressing Research: We supported the development of a research manuscript on nutrition in PSC, so that the findings can be effectively shared with the wider medical community. This will help us advocate for the needs of people with PSC to ensure they get the care they need at the right time.
Improving Care: We hosted a clinical consensus meeting to map out an ideal PSC care pathway, which helps ensure future PSC management is better aligned with what people with PSC need. Establishing standard protocols across the NHS is essential for eliminating regional variations in care.
Progressing Research: We contributed to the strategic planning of an international rare liver disease network, which supports progress towards better care for people with PSC. Broadening our influence ensures patient needs are integrated into wider clinical strategies.
Improving Care: We shared firsthand experiences of living with PSC at an international medical school event, which improves clinical understanding of the disease for healthcare professionals. This is important because ensuring future specialists understand the human impact of PSC helps drive patient-centered care and clinical excellence.
Progressing Research: After just over 48 hours on our Big Give Small Charity Week match funding initiative, your donations helped us get to 78% of the way to our £20,000 goal! Thank you! Can we reach 100%?