PLoS Biology November 25, 2025

Does the liver talk to the brain? If so, how and why?

by Young-Hwan Jo The liver communicates with the brain by transmitting interoceptive signals, including nutrients, hormones, and cytokines, potentially via the liver-innervating vagal sensory neurons. This communication is crucial for maintaining metabolic homeostasis and emotional stability. Interoceptive signals from visceral organs, such as heart, lungs and gut, are known to influence many aspects of organismal physiology and behavior. This Perspective argues that liver signaling via the va