The present invention encompasses methods and compositions useful indiagnosing and treating hepatic disorders, especially those characterized byinflammation. The method comprises administration of an agent which preventsthe interaction of MAdCAM with a MAdCAM binding partner or ligand. Thesecompositions are useful in treating diseases or disorders involving.alpha.4.beta.7/MAdCAM blockade, as well as inhibiting a primary event in theinflammatory response such as blocking interactions between intercellularadhesion molecules and their ligands. Disorders treatable using the methodsdisclosed herein include infections, especially viral infections, iatrogenicdisorders, cholestatic disorders, hereditary disorders, sarcoidosis, organtransplant, and the like. The diagnostic methods of the invention can beemployed to detect the presence of a disorder or to monitor the course oftherapy used to treat the disorder.
