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MAFLD/MASLD: Past, Present, and Future
1Medical Data Analytics Centre, Department of Medicine and Therapeutics, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
Abstract:
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), also known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease, affects more than 30% of the global adult population and has become one of the leading causes of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. From what we are seeing today, it is hard to imagine that only 25 years ago the disease was considered unimportant, liver biopsy was the only means of assessing disease severity, and no pharmaceutical company was developing treatments for steatohepatitis (MASH). In this Okuda State-of-the-Art Lecture, I discuss the evolution of our understanding of MASLD over the past 25 years and highlight the development of noninvasive biomarkers and clinical care pathways. The accelerated approvals of resmetirom and semaglutide in 2024 and 2025, respectively, mark a new era of MASH treatments. I also highlight challenges in MASLD research and speculate on the role of omics and artificial intelligence in our future practice. Finally, I emphasize that the progress today is the result of concerted efforts and years of collaborative work. As long as we work together and embrace change, progress will occur, enabling us to better serve our patients and society.
Insights
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has evolved from an overlooked condition to a major health concern. Recent advancements, including new treatments and noninvasive biomarkers, signify a new era in managing this prevalent liver disease.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Metabolic Disorders
- Liver Disease Research
Background:
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) affects over 30% of adults globally.
- Historically considered unimportant, MASLD is now a leading cause of cirrhosis and liver cancer.
- Liver biopsy was the sole method for assessing severity, with no specific treatments available 25 years ago.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolution of understanding MASLD over the past 25 years.
- To highlight advancements in noninvasive biomarkers and clinical care pathways for MASLD.
- To discuss emerging treatments and future research directions, including omics and AI.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical data and scientific literature on MASLD.
- Analysis of the development of diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies.
- Discussion of recent clinical trial outcomes and regulatory approvals.
Main Results:
- Significant progress in understanding MASLD, moving beyond its previous underestimation.
- Development and validation of noninvasive biomarkers for disease assessment.
- Introduction of novel pharmaceutical treatments, with accelerated approvals for resmetirom and semaglutide.
Conclusions:
- The past 25 years have seen a paradigm shift in MASLD research and clinical practice.
- New treatments and diagnostic tools herald a new era for managing MASLD.
- Collaborative efforts and embracing technological advancements are crucial for future progress in liver disease care.
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