Macrophage infusions linked to lower death and transplant rates in cirrhosis patients

Infusions of immune cells called macrophages have been linked to a reduction in the risk of death and the need for a liver transplant in people with cirrhosis. The study, published in Cell Stem Cell, examined outcomes for patients who received the cell infusions.

Researchers reported lower rates of death and transplant compared with patients who did not receive the treatment. Cirrhosis causes severe scarring of the liver. The condition can progress to liver failure, often requiring transplantation.

Study details The paper, authored by P. N.

Brennan and colleagues, appears in the May 2026 issue of the journal. 016. The research adds to ongoing work on cell-based approaches for liver disease. No details on patient numbers, dosing schedules, or adverse events were included in the published summary.