Metabolic dysfunction‑associated steatotic liver disease: Pathogenesis, model and treatment (Review)

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Metabolic Diseases
• Pathogenesis Research

Background:

• Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is characterized by hepatic steatosis and fat deposition, impairing liver function and patient quality of life.
• MASLD pathogenesis is influenced by interrelated mechanisms from both Western and Chinese medicine.
• Accurate histopathological diagnosis of MASLD in humans is challenging, highlighting the need for reliable experimental models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the pathogenesis, modeling, and treatment strategies for MASLD.
• To provide a foundation for future research and clinical trials in MASLD.
• To explore the interplay of Western and Chinese medicine in MASLD development.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on MASLD pathogenesis.
• Analysis of various in vivo and in vitro models for MASLD research.
• Synthesis of current pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment approaches for MASLD.

Main Results:

• MASLD pathogenesis involves multifactorial influences with interconnected mechanisms.
• Both in vivo and in vitro models are crucial for studying MASLD due to diagnostic challenges in humans.
• Combined pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments show promise for MASLD management.

Conclusions:

• Effective MASLD management requires a thorough understanding of its complex pathogenesis.
• Development and validation of appropriate MASLD models are essential for advancing research.
• Further clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of combined treatment strategies for MASLD.