Killing hepatocellular carcinoma in the NAFLD/NASH stage: a comprehensive perspective on targeting regulated cell...

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) has been identified as a significant risk factor contributing to the rising incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). With the evolving epidemiological characteristics of NASH, the incidence of NASH-related HCC has increased substantially. Recent advances in the study of regulated cell death (RCD) mechanisms have uncovered their roles in the pathogenesis of NAFLD/NASH and associated HCC, offering novel insights and directions for targeted therapeutic strategies. Although numerous studies have highlighted the critical role of RCD mechanisms in NAFLD/NASH and related HCC, significant challenges remain in developing effective targeted therapies and translating them into clinical applications. This review aims to summarize the current progress in understanding the role of RCD in NAFLD/NASH and associated HCC, explore potential therapeutic strategies and clinical applications, and provide new perspectives and therapeutic targets for treating NAFLD/NASH. Ultimately, the goal is to control disease progression at the NAFLD/NASH stage and prevent its progression to HCC.