Comparison and Characteristics of MASLD Mouse Models

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Translational Medicine
• Animal Models

Background:

• Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a growing global health concern characterized by liver fat accumulation.
• Its progressive form, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), involves inflammation, liver cell injury, and potential progression to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
• MASLD/MASH is linked to significant comorbidities, including cardiovascular and kidney diseases, underscoring the need for effective treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pathological features of MASLD and MASH.
• To comprehensively summarize existing MASH-related mouse models.
• To aid researchers in selecting appropriate models for mechanistic studies and therapeutic target discovery.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of MASH pathology.
• Systematic summary of MASH-relevant experimental animal models, particularly mouse models.
• Analysis of model relevance to clinical MASH symptoms.

Main Results:

• Detailed description of MASLD/MASH pathological hallmarks including steatosis, inflammation, and hepatocyte injury.
• Categorization and description of various MASH mouse models, highlighting their strengths and limitations.
• Identification of key features that make certain models suitable for specific research questions.

Conclusions:

• Understanding MASH pathology is critical for therapeutic development.
• A variety of MASH mouse models exist, each offering unique insights into disease mechanisms.
• Appropriate selection of MASH animal models is fundamental for advancing research and drug discovery.