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Updated: May 29, 2026

Targeted Next-generation Sequencing and Bioinformatics Pipeline to Evaluate Genetic Determinants of Constitutional Disease
Published on: April 4, 2018
Genetic variants in candidate genes influencing NAFLD progression
Michelino Di Rosa1, Lucia Malaguarnera
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Catania, Via Androne, 83, 95124 Catania, Italy.
Genetic variants in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are key to understanding disease progression. Identifying these genetic factors may improve patient management for this metabolic disorder.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology and Genetic Research
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) encompasses simple steatosis and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).
- Advanced NASH can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocarcinoma, increasing liver and cardiovascular mortality.
- NASH is linked to the worsening of metabolic syndrome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review recently identified genetic variants in NAFLD patients.
- To identify potential risk factors contributing to NAFLD progression.
- To explore the role of genetic polymorphisms in metabolic dysfunctions.
Main Methods:
- Review of human epidemiologic studies on genetic polymorphisms.
- Analysis of gene variants associated with metabolic dysfunctions in NAFLD.
- Evaluation of altered genotypes and clinical variables.
Main Results:
- Recent studies have identified specific genetic variants in NAFLD patients.
- These variants may act as risk factors influencing disease progression.
- Genetic factors contribute to the understanding of NAFLD's pathophysiologic origins.
Conclusions:
- Genetic variants play a significant role in the development and progression of NAFLD.
- Identifying these genetic factors can aid in risk stratification.
- Integrating genetic data with clinical variables may enhance patient management strategies for NAFLD.
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