Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 16, 2026
Author Spotlight: Establishing MASLD Cell Models for Investigating Disease Mechanisms and the Lipid-Lowering Effects of Koumiss
Published on: July 19, 2024
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in 2016
S A Townsend1, Philip N Newsome2
1National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Liver Biomedical Research Unit, Centre for Liver Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK Liver Unit, University Hospital Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, B15 2WB, UK.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing global health issue. Current management focuses on weight loss and metabolic syndrome treatment, with new therapies under investigation.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Internal Medicine
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent liver condition globally.
- It is increasingly becoming the primary reason for liver transplantation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding and management of NAFLD.
- To highlight emerging therapeutic strategies and areas for future research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of original articles, reviews, and meta-analyses.
- Analysis of current clinical guidelines and ongoing clinical trials.
Main Results:
- NAFLD is strongly linked to obesity and insulin resistance.
- Weight loss and metabolic syndrome management are the current cornerstone treatments.
- Fibrosis, rather than non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), appears to be the key predictor of clinical outcomes.
- Several novel drug candidates, including obeticholic acid, elafibranor, GLP-1 analogues, and CCR2/5 inhibitors, are in late-stage development.
Conclusions:
- Further research into NAFLD pathophysiology is crucial for identifying at-risk patients.
- Developing targeted therapies for progressive liver disease in NAFLD patients is a priority.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Diseases of the Liver and Gallbladder
Cirrhosis is characterized by the scarring of hepatic lobules in the liver, which are replaced by fibrous tissue, affecting the liver's normal functioning. NAFLD, on the other hand, is caused by an excessive build-up of fat in the liver, not...
01:25Ultrasound II: Endoscopic Ultrasound and FibroScan
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS):
01:30Liver Physiology
Metabolic Regulation:
The liver is the central organ involved in regulating blood composition. It stabilizes blood glucose levels, maintaining them within the range of 70–110 mg/dL. When these levels drop, the liver breaks down glycogen reserves and releases glucose into the bloodstream. It can...
01:24Chronic Pancreatitis I: Introduction
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas, which occurs when the immune system becomes active and causes swelling, pain, and disruptions in organ function. Pancreatitis can manifest as either an acute or chronic condition.
Acute pancreatitis arises suddenly and lasts for a brief duration, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term affliction...
01:29Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
Assessment: