Iranian Journal of Pathology

Association of Autophagy-Related Gene 5 (ATG5) With Neonatal Cholestasis in Egyptian Pediatric Patients

Document Type : Original Research

Authors

Rehab M Samaka 1
Hala S El-Rebey 1
Asmaa M Kabouh 2
Shereen M. El- Mashad 2

1 Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Shebin Elkom, Menoufia, Egypt

2 Pathology Department, National Liver Institute, Menoufia University, Shebin Elkom, Menoufia, Egypt

https://doi.org/10.30699/ijp.2025.2061573.3466
Abstract
Background & Objective: Neonatal cholestasis (NC) occurs in approximately 1 in 2500 live births. Autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5) is a central component of the autophagy machinery, particularly in autophagosome formation. The autophagic process regulated by ATG5 has been implicated in various physiological and pathological conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the role of ATG5 in NC.
Methods: This retrospective study analyzed liver biopsies from 74 patients with NC. Immunohistochemical expression of ATG5 was assessed in hepatocytes and biliary epithelium.
Results: A significant association was observed between intrahepatic cholestasis and the intensity of ATG5 expression in zone II hepatocytes (P = .029). Overexpression of ATG5 in hepatocytes was significantly associated with mild portal tract fibrosis (P = .038) and mild lymphocytic infiltrates (P = .005).
Conclusion: ATG5 appears to contribute to the pathogenesis of NC in Egyptian infants. These findings may provide a basis for further research into novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Keywords

ATG5
Neonatal cholestasis
Immunohistochemical
Biliary atresia
Jaundice

Subjects

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Iranian Journal of Pathology
Volume 20, Issue 4
Summer 2025
Pages 431-455

  • Receive Date 20 February 2025
  • Revise Date 25 March 2025
  • Accept Date 01 August 2025

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