The Role of miRNAs and Epigenetic Factors in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease - a Systematic Review

Non-alcoholic liver disease is affecting approximately a quarter of the global population, with a significant morbidity and mortality rate. The present paper takes into discussion a systematic review of the literature concerning the role that microRNAs (miRNAs) and epigenetic factors can have in relation with NAFLD. Using PRISMA methodology guidelines, the systematic review offers a comprehensive image of the relevant scientific literature that explains the complex role of miRNAs in relation with NAFLD. Throughout the process of reviewing there has been highlighted seven different subtopics that can synthetize the nature and the content of the different studies: the role of miRNAs in fibrosis and liver disease progression; use of microRNAs as biomarkers for diagnosing steatotic liver disease; microRNAs and targeted therapies for NAFLD (Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) /NASH (Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis); metabolic regulation and obesity via microRNAs; interaction of miRNAs with other factors at the molecular level in disease pathogenesis; the role of miRNAs in systemic inflammation and effects on various other organs and the role of miRNAs as regulators and highly specialized epigenetic factors affecting NAFLD pathogenesis and evolution. Overall, this review presents diverse approaches on microRNAs and gives a background for future applied research that can explain and test their potential as biomarkers for diagnosing and understanding disease mechanisms, particularly in populations exposed to historical nutritional imbalances.