Researchers from Karolinska Institut and University Gothenburg have identified two distinct forms of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD a-specific type and a systemic type that affects multiple organs. Published in two studies in Nature Medicine, this discovery offers hope for improved diagnosis and treatment for millions affected by this worldwide.
Understanding MASLD
MASLD, also known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steat liver disease, is characterized by excessive fat accumulation in the. It is primarily caused by obesity and overweight, making it a significant and growing global health. Alarmingly, one in four adults worldwide estimated to have MASLD, yet are unaware of their condition as symptoms typically appear only in advanced stages. Left untreated, MASLD can progress to severe complications such as cirrhosis, liver cancer, and organ failure.
Key Findings
analyzing data from over ,000 participants, including those in UK Biobank, researchers identified two distinct subtypes MASLD:
Liver-Specific Type: This aggressive form primarily affects the liver, leading to severe damage such cirhosis or cancer. Interestingly, it appears to protect cardiovascular disease.
Systemic Type: This variant is closely tied to cardio-renal-metabolic syndrome and the risk of, heart disease, kidney, and other complications.
Using genetic, the team 27 new genetic variants associated with MASLD. These discoveries enabled researchers to develop risk scores for the two types, helping to predict progression more accurately.
Advancing Precision Medicine
“This research helps understand why some individuals severe liver disease others suffer from-renal complications explains Professor Stefano Romeo Karolinska Institutet, who the study. “By identifying these pathways, we can better understand the mechanisms underlying MASLD targeted therapies for patients based on specific risk.”