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Author Spotlight: Establishing MASLD Cell Models for Investigating Disease Mechanisms and the Lipid-Lowering Effects of Koumiss
Published on: July 19, 2024
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Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease in adults
Daniel Q Huang1,2, Vincent W S Wong3, Mary E Rinella4
1Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore.
Nature Reviews. Disease Primers
|March 6, 2025
Summary
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) affects over a third of adults globally. New treatments and biomarkers are emerging to combat this growing liver condition linked to obesity and diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Metabolic Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) encompasses a spectrum from simple fatty liver to progressive steatohepatitis.
- MASLD affects over one-third of the global adult population and is linked to insulin resistance, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.
- The increasing prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes is driving the rise in MASLD cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of the current understanding and management of MASLD.
- To highlight recent advancements in nomenclature, drug approval, and research priorities.
- To emphasize the need for improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on MASLD epidemiology, risk factors, and pathophysiology.
- Discussion of recent developments in MASLD classification and treatment guidelines.
- Analysis of the role of biomarkers and non-invasive tests in clinical trials and patient care.
Main Results:
- MASLD is a prevalent condition associated with significant metabolic comorbidities.
- The first drug for non-cirrhotic metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) with moderate to advanced fibrosis was approved in 2024.
- Validated biomarkers are crucial for accelerating drug development and improving patient selection in clinical trials.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of metabolic comorbidities like obesity and type 2 diabetes is key to slowing MASLD progression.
- Development of reliable biomarkers and non-invasive tests is essential for advancing MASH treatment and drug development.
- Integrated strategies addressing risk factors, risk stratification, and access to care are necessary to combat the global burden of MASLD.
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