Antiangiogenic Drugs in NASH: Evidence of a Possible New Therapeutic Approach

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Pharmacology
• Oncology

Background:

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a prevalent global liver condition.
• Its advanced stage, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), significantly contributes to liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
• Current therapeutic strategies lack both efficacy and safety, with lifestyle changes proving difficult to sustain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review preclinical evidence for antiangiogenic therapies in treating NASH.
• To explore the role of angiogenesis in the progression of liver diseases including NASH, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC.
• To identify potential therapeutic agents, including known antiangiogenic drugs and phytocompounds, for NASH management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of preclinical studies.
• Analysis of the role of angiogenesis in liver disease pathophysiology.
• Evaluation of antiangiogenic drugs (e.g., sorafenib) and phytotherapeutic compounds (e.g., berberine) for NASH treatment.

Main Results:

• Angiogenesis is a critical factor in the progression of NASH, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and HCC.
• Preclinical data suggest that established antiangiogenic drugs may be beneficial for NASH.
• Phytotherapeutic compounds, such as berberine, exhibit antiangiogenic properties relevant to NASH treatment.

Conclusions:

• Targeting angiogenesis presents a promising therapeutic avenue for managing NASH.
• Both pharmaceutical antiangiogenic agents and certain natural compounds warrant further investigation for NASH therapy.
• Developing effective and safe pharmacological treatments for NASH remains a critical unmet medical need.