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Updated: Jun 11, 2026

Incorporation of a Survivable Liver Biopsy Procedure in Mice to Assess Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) Resolution
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Incorporation of a Survivable Liver Biopsy Procedure in Mice to Assess Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) Resolution

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The challenge of developing novel pharmacological therapies for non-alcoholic steatohepatitis

Detlef Schuppan1, Mark D Gorrell, Thomas Klein

  • 1Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Division of Gastroenterology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA. dschuppa@bidmc.harvard.edu

Liver International : Official Journal of the International Association for the Study of the Liver
|July 14, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing health concern affecting millions. New research explores advanced therapies and diagnostic tools to combat this condition and its progression to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and liver fibrosis.

Area of Science:

  • Hepatology
  • Metabolic Disorders
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) encompasses a spectrum of liver conditions, from simple steatosis to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
  • NAFLD is increasingly prevalent globally, affecting approximately 30% of US adults and 10% of US children.
  • The condition is closely linked to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, highlighting the need for effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review emerging diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities for NAFLD, NASH, and liver fibrosis.
  • To discuss future developments and expert perspectives on managing these liver conditions.
  • To identify unmet needs in the diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD.

Main Methods:

  • Expert panel discussion and review of current literature.
  • Analysis of emerging therapeutic targets and diagnostic technologies.
  • Synthesis of information on pathophysiological mechanisms of hepatic fibrogenesis.

Main Results:

  • Lifestyle interventions show limited success, emphasizing the need for novel pharmacological therapies.
  • Promising therapeutic targets include inhibitors of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 and the renin-angiotensin system.
  • There is a critical need for improved non-invasive diagnostic and staging technologies for NAFLD.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of NAFLD requires a multi-faceted approach, including improved diagnostics and novel therapies.
  • Further understanding of fibrogenesis mechanisms in NASH is crucial for developing targeted treatments.
  • Rapid clinical validation of new therapies is expected with advancements in the field.

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