Gut microbiome and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease: Current status and potential applications

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Hepatology
• Microbiology
• Metabolic Diseases

Background:

• Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is a prevalent global health issue, driven by modern lifestyles and dietary habits.
• The gut microbiota (GM) plays crucial roles in host metabolism, immunity, and nutrient synthesis.
• The gut-liver axis, a bidirectional communication pathway, is increasingly recognized for its role in liver disease pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of gut microbiota alterations in MAFLD.
• To explore the mechanisms linking gut microbiota to MAFLD, including bile acid circulation, energy metabolism, and signaling pathways.
• To summarize emerging MAFLD therapeutic strategies targeting the gut microbiota.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating gut microbiota in MAFLD.
• Analysis of multi-omics data, including 16S sequencing, to characterize GM in MAFLD patients.
• Discussion of the functional roles of GM and its metabolites in the context of the gut-liver axis.

Main Results:

• MAFLD is associated with distinct changes in gut microbiota composition and function.
• Gut microbiota dysbiosis contributes to MAFLD pathogenesis through altered bile acid metabolism, energy harvest, and inflammation.
• The gut-liver axis is a critical mediator of these interactions.

Conclusions:

• Gut microbiota dysbiosis is a significant factor in MAFLD development and progression.
• Targeting the gut microbiota offers promising therapeutic avenues for MAFLD.
• Further research into the gut-liver axis is essential for effective MAFLD management.