Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 26, 2026
09:20
Lumped-Parameter and Finite Element Modeling of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Published on: February 13, 2021
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HFpEF and MASLD: converging mechanisms and clinical implications
Federico Capone1,2,3,4,5, Steffen P Häseli1,2, Luo Liu1,2
1Deutsches Herzzentrum der Charité, Department of Cardiology, Angiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Max Rubner Center for Cardiovascular Metabolic Renal Research (MRC), Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
Nature Reviews. Cardiology
|February 24, 2026
Summary
Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are linked by shared metabolic issues. Understanding the liver-heart axis is crucial for managing these interconnected conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Hepatology
- Metabolic Diseases
Background:
- Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) are rising globally, linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome.
- These conditions were previously studied separately but are now understood as linked manifestations of systemic metabolic dysfunction.
- Recent evidence highlights shared risk factors and a bidirectional communication pathway between the liver and heart.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the epidemiological and mechanistic links between MASLD and HFpEF.
- To examine shared metabolic drivers like lipotoxicity, meta-inflammation, and oxidative stress.
- To discuss liver-derived mediators affecting cardiac function and propose integrated management strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological data and mechanistic studies on the MASLD-HFpEF connection.
- Analysis of shared metabolic pathways including lipotoxicity, meta-inflammation, and oxidative stress.
- Examination of emerging liver-derived mediators (hepatokines, metabolites, extracellular vesicles) impacting the heart.
Main Results:
- MASLD and HFpEF share common metabolic drivers and risk factors.
- A dynamic, bidirectional crosstalk exists between the liver and heart.
- Liver-derived factors significantly influence cardiac structure and function.
Conclusions:
- The liver-heart axis is central to understanding the interplay between MASLD and HFpEF.
- Integrated, multiorgan approaches are needed for clinical recognition and management.
- Rethinking cardiometabolic disease beyond organ-specific silos is essential for improved patient outcomes.
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