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Review
. 2024 Apr 16;25(8):4397.
doi: 10.3390/ijms25084397.

The Relationship between Pathogenesis and Possible Treatments for the MASLD-Cirrhosis Spectrum

Paulina Vidal-Cevallos  1 , Adriana P Sorroza-Martínez  2 , Norberto C Chávez-Tapia  1   2 , Misael Uribe  1 , Eduardo E Montalvo-Javé  1   3   4 , Natalia Nuño-Lámbarri  2   3
Affiliations
Review

The Relationship between Pathogenesis and Possible Treatments for the MASLD-Cirrhosis Spectrum

Paulina Vidal-Cevallos et al. Int J Mol Sci. .

Abstract

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a term that entails a broad spectrum of conditions that vary in severity. Its development is influenced by multiple factors such as environment, microbiome, comorbidities, and genetic factors. MASLD is closely related to metabolic syndrome as it is caused by an alteration in the metabolism of fatty acids due to the accumulation of lipids because of an imbalance between its absorption and elimination in the liver. Its progression to fibrosis is due to a constant flow of fatty acids through the mitochondria and the inability of the liver to slow down this metabolic load, which generates oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, triggering cell death. The development and progression of MASLD are closely related to unhealthy lifestyle habits, and nutritional epigenetic and genetic mechanisms have also been implicated. Currently, lifestyle modification is the first-line treatment for MASLD and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis; weight loss of ≥10% produces resolution of steatohepatitis and fibrosis regression. In many patients, body weight reduction cannot be achieved; therefore, pharmacological treatment should be offered in particular populations.

Keywords: diet; fibrosis; hepatic steatosis; metabolic syndrome; sedentarism; steatohepatitis.

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Conflict of interest statement

We confirm that this work is original and has not been published, is not currently under consideration for publication elsewhere, in whole or in part, and we have not had any competing financial interests or commercial relationships that might pose conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Risk factors for MASLD development.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Treatment options for MASLD and the risk factors. The currently effective treatment options for MASLD and its progression include lifestyle modifications such as bariatric surgery, different types of diets, exercise, pharmacological treatments, and dietary supplements. Some of the main risk factors are a sedentary lifestyle and genetic and epigenetic factors.
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Grants and funding

We received educational and research support from Medica Sur Clinic and Foundation.