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Miller M. Pemafibrate and other triglyceride-lowering therapies to reduce risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disease. Curr Opin Cardiol 2024; 39:286-291. [PMID: 38482842 PMCID: PMC11150088 DOI: 10.1097/hco.0000000000001136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Although high triglycerides are consistently associated with elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), therapies that reduce triglyceride levels have inconsistently translated into reduced CVD risk. RECENT FINDINGS To date, three clinical trials have tested triglyceride-lowering therapies in patients with hypertriglyceridemia (HTG) and elevated risk of incident/recurrent CVD. In REDUCE-IT (Reduction of Cardiovascular Events with Icosapent Ethyl-Intervention Trial), assignment to IPE, a highly purified eicosapentanoic acid (EPA), resulted in a 25% reduction in nonfatal myocardial infarction), nonfatal stroke, cardiovascular death, coronary revascularization and hospitalization for unstable angina. By contrast, the combination of EPA and docosahexanoic acid (DHA) carboxylic fatty acids used in the STRENGTH trial (Statin Residual Risk With Epanova in High Cardiovascular Risk Patients With Hypertriglyceridemia) failed to reduce CVD risk. Most recently, PROMINENT (Pemafibrate to Reduce Cardiovascular Outcomes by Reducing Triglycerides in Patients with Diabetes) also failed to demonstrate reduction in CVD events despite use of a potent triglyceride-lowering, fibric-acid derivative. However, improvement in HTG-associated metabolic complications (e.g. nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) was observed with pemafibrate as well as with another potent triglyceride-lowering therapy (i.e. pegozafermin). Moreover, trials are underway evaluating whether the most fatal metabolic complication of HTG, pancreatitis, may be reduced with highly potent triglyceride-lowering therapies (e.g. apolipoprotein C3 inhibitors). SUMMARY Taken together, HTG is associated with increased risk of CVD and attendant adverse metabolic sequalae. To this end, a potentially promising and evidence-based landscape is emerging for treating a clinical phenotype that in the past has been insufficiently addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Miller
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania and Corporal Michael J Crescenz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Iwasa M, Sugimoto R, Eguchi A, Tamai Y, Shigefuku R, Fujiwara N, Tanaka H, Kobayashi Y, Ikoma J, Kaito M, Nakagawa H. Effectiveness of 1-year pemafibrate treatment on steatotic liver disease: the influence of alcohol consumption. Eur J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 36:793-801. [PMID: 38526942 DOI: 10.1097/meg.0000000000002766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Pemafibrate is a selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α modulator that improves serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in dyslipidemia patients. We previously reported that pemafibrate significantly improves liver function, serum triglyceride (TG) levels and liver stiffness in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease patients, however the influence of alcohol consumption was not considered. Therefore, we explored pemafibrate efficacy in patients with steatotic liver disease (SLD) and alcohol-associated liver disease (ALD). METHODS We retrospectively evaluated pemafibrate efficacy on liver enzymes and lipids in metabolic dysfunction-associated SLD (MASLD) (n = 93), MASLD plus increased alcohol intake (MetALD; n = 23) and ALD (n = 22) patients who had taken pemafibrate for at least 48 weeks. Liver shear wave velocity (SWV, n = 75) was also evaluated. RESULTS In MASLD group, ALT, aspartate aminotransferase (AST), γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (γ-GTP) and TG values were significantly decreased from baseline to week 24 and week 48 ( P < 0.0001). ALT and TG values in MetALD group and ALT and AST values in ALD group were also significantly decreased from baseline to week 24 and week 48. Study participant SWV values decreased from baseline to week 48. We observed no significant difference in changes to ALT, AST, γ-GTP and TG (value at week 24 or week 48 minus value at baseline) among the three groups. CONCLUSION Pemafibrate improves liver function and liver stiffness thus making it a promising therapeutic agent for SLD, even in patients with excess alcohol consumption (MetALD and ALD groups).
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoh Iwasa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University
| | - Ryosuke Sugimoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University
| | - Akiko Eguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University
| | - Yasuyuki Tamai
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University
| | - Ryuta Shigefuku
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University
| | - Naoto Fujiwara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University
| | - Hideaki Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University
| | - Yoshinao Kobayashi
- Center for Physical and Mental Health, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University
| | | | | | - Hayato Nakagawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Graduate School of Medicine, Mie University
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Iwadare T, Kimura T, Kunimoto H, Okumura T, Wakabayashi SI, Kobayashi H, Yamashita Y, Sugiura A, Tanaka N, Umemura T. Long-Term pemafibrate treatment exhibits limited impact on body fat mass in patients with hypertriglyceridemia accompanying NAFLD. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1329294. [PMID: 38828415 PMCID: PMC11140089 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1329294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Aim Short-term use of pemafibrate (PEM), a selective modulator of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha, has been reported to improve abnormal liver function in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease with hypertriglyceridemia (HTG-NAFLD). This study aimed to clarify the effects and predictive factors of long-term 72-week PEM administration on body composition, and laboratory tests in HTG-NAFLD patients. Methods Fifty-three HTG-NAFLD patients receiving a 72-week PEM regimen were retrospectively enrolled. Routine blood and body composition results were analyzed immediately before and at the end of the study period. Results PEM treatment significantly improved liver enzyme levels such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase, along with lipid profiles including triglyceride, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. PEM did not have any detectable impact on body composition parameters. The factors of female, higher AST (≥ 46 U/L) and fat mass (≥ 31.9%), as well as lower soft lean mass (< 61.6%), skeletal muscle mass (< 36%), and skeletal muscle mass index (< 6.9 kg/m2) were significantly associated with the treatment response status of a > 30% decrease in ALT. All patients completed the treatment without any adverse effects. Conclusions Long-term PEM treatment had a positive impact on liver enzymes and lipid profiles, but it did not result in significant changes in body composition among HTG-NAFLD patients. In predicting the response to PEM treatment, the evaluation of AST and body composition may be useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takanobu Iwadare
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nagano Municipal Hospital, Nagano, Japan
| | - Takefumi Kimura
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
- Consultation Center for Liver Diseases, Shinshu University Hospital, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Hideo Kunimoto
- Department of Gastroenterology, Nagano Municipal Hospital, Nagano, Japan
| | - Taiki Okumura
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Shun-Ichi Wakabayashi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Kobayashi
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Yuki Yamashita
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
- Consultation Center for Liver Diseases, Shinshu University Hospital, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Ayumi Sugiura
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Naoki Tanaka
- Department of Global Medical Research Promotion, Shinshu University Graduate School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
- International Relations Office, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
- Research Center for Social Systems, Shinshu University, Matsumoto, Japan
| | - Takeji Umemura
- Department of Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shinshu University School of Medicine, Matsumoto, Japan
- Consultation Center for Liver Diseases, Shinshu University Hospital, Matsumoto, Japan
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Yamada-Shimizu M, Tamaki N, Kurosaki M, Uchihara N, Suzuki K, Tanaka Y, Miyamoto H, Ishido S, Nobusawa T, Matsumoto H, Keitoku T, Higuchi M, Takaura K, Tanaka S, Maeyashiki C, Yasui Y, Takahashi Y, Tsuchiya K, Nakanishi H, Izumi N. A Comparison of Alanine Aminotransferase Normalization between Pemafibrate and Bezafibrate in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Intern Med 2024; 63:1185-1190. [PMID: 37779070 PMCID: PMC11116030 DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.2248-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Pemafibrate is a recently developed selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha modulator that can improve alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, the effectiveness of ALT normalization with pemafibrate and bezafibrate, a traditional fibrate, has not been compared. Methods In this retrospective study, we compared the effects of pemafibrate and bezafibrate on ALT normalization in patients with NAFLD. The primary endpoint was the ALT normalization rate at 12 months after administration. Patients Twenty and 14 patients with NAFLD receiving pemafibrate and bezafibrate, respectively, were included in this retrospective analysis. All patients had elevated ALT levels and dyslipidemia at entry. Results The ALT normalization rates at 3, 6, and 12 months were 40%, 55%, and 60% for pemafibrate and 14.3%, 28.6%, and 14.3% for bezafibrate, respectively. The ALT normalization rate at 12 months was significantly higher in patients treated with pemafibrate than in those treated with bezafibrate (p=0.01). Pemafibrate, when compared with bezafibrate, was shown to be a significant factor for ALT normalization in a multivariable analysis with an adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) of 13.8 (1.6-115, p=0.01). Conclusion Pemafibrate is effective in ALT normalization in patients with NAFLD and may be used as a treatment for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nobuharu Tamaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Masayuki Kurosaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Naoki Uchihara
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Keito Suzuki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Yuki Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Haruka Miyamoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Shun Ishido
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Tsubasa Nobusawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Matsumoto
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Taisei Keitoku
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Mayu Higuchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Kenta Takaura
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Shohei Tanaka
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Chiaki Maeyashiki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Yutaka Yasui
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Yuka Takahashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Kaoru Tsuchiya
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Nakanishi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
| | - Namiki Izumi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Musashino Red Cross Hospital, Japan
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Ono H, Atsukawa M, Tsubota A, Arai T, Suzuki K, Higashi T, Kitamura M, Shioda‐Koyano K, Kawano T, Yoshida Y, Okubo T, Hayama K, Itokawa N, Kondo C, Nagao M, Iwabu M, Iwakiri K. Impact of pemafibrate in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease complicated by dyslipidemia: A single-arm prospective study. JGH Open 2024; 8:e13057. [PMID: 38572327 PMCID: PMC10986296 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.13057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Background and Aim This study aimed to clarify the efficacy and safety of 48-week pemafibrate treatment in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) complicated by dyslipidemia. Methods A total of 110 patients diagnosed with MASLD complicated by dyslipidemia received pemafibrate at a dose of 0.1 mg twice daily for 48 weeks. Results The participants were 54 males and 37 females, with a median age of 63 (52-71) years. Besides improvement in lipid profile, significant reductions from baseline to 48 weeks of treatment were found in liver-related enzymes, such as aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, and alkaline phosphatase (P < 0.001 for all). A significant decrease in the homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was observed in patients with insulin resistance (HOMA-IR ≥ 2.5) (4.34 at baseline to 3.89 at Week 48, P < 0.05). Moreover, changes in ALT were weakly correlated with those in HOMA-IR (r = 0.34; p < 0.05). Regarding noninvasive liver fibrosis tests, platelets, Wisteria floribunda agglutinin-positive Mac-2-binding protein, type IV collagen 7s, and the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score significantly decreased from baseline to Week 48. Most adverse events were Grades 1-2, and no drug-related Grade 3 or higher adverse events were observed. Conclusion This study demonstrated that 48-week pemafibrate administration improved liver-related enzymes and surrogate marker of liver fibrosis in patients with MASLD. The improvement of insulin resistance by pemafibrate may contribute to the favorable effect on MASLD complicated by dyslipidemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Ono
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
| | - Masanori Atsukawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
| | - Akihito Tsubota
- Project Research Units (PRU) Research Center for Medical ScienceThe Jikei University School of MedicineTokyoJapan
| | - Taeang Arai
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
| | - Kenta Suzuki
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
| | - Tetsuyuki Higashi
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
| | - Michika Kitamura
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
| | | | - Tadamichi Kawano
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
| | - Yuji Yoshida
- Division of GastroenterologyNippon Medical School Chiba Hokusoh HospitalChibaJapan
| | - Tomomi Okubo
- Division of GastroenterologyNippon Medical School Chiba Hokusoh HospitalChibaJapan
| | - Korenobu Hayama
- Division of GastroenterologyNippon Medical School Chiba Hokusoh HospitalChibaJapan
| | - Norio Itokawa
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
| | - Chisa Kondo
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
| | - Mototsugu Nagao
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and MetabolismNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
| | - Masato Iwabu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and MetabolismNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
| | - Katsuhiko Iwakiri
- Division of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Medical SchoolTokyoJapan
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Ichikawa T, Oba H, Owada M, Watanabe K, Yoshimura T, Fuchigami A, Nakamura A. Evaluation of the effects of pemafibrate on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease with hypertriglyceridemia using magnetic resonance elastography combined with fibrosis-4 index and the magnetic resonance imaging-aspartate aminotransferase score. JGH Open 2023; 7:959-965. [PMID: 38162848 PMCID: PMC10757500 DOI: 10.1002/jgh3.13012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Background and Aim In this retrospective study, we evaluated the effects of pemafibrate treatment in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and hypertriglyceridemia using non-invasive stiffness-based models, including magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) combined with the fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) (MEFIB) index and the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (MAST) score. Methods In total, 179 patients with MASLD treated with pemafibrate were enrolled. We evaluated the effects of 48-week pemafibrate treatment using the MEFIB index, which classifies patients based on the combination of liver stiffness measurement (LSM) on MRE and FIB-4 and the MAST score, which is calculated based on LSM on MRE, MRI-proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF), and AST levels. Results Pemafibrate treatment led to significant reduction in AST, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) (P = 0.011, <0.001, and <0.001, respectively) and significant improvements in triglyceride and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels (P < 0.001 and <0.001, respectively). The MRI-PDFF values were not significantly altered. However, a significant decrease in LSM on MRE was detected (P = 0.003). Evaluation of fibrosis using the MEFIB index and MAST score demonstrated significant improvement (P = 0.004 and <0.001, respectively). Changes in the MAST score showed positive correlation with changes in ALT and GGT levels (r = 0.821, P < 0.001, and r = 0.808, P < 0.001, respectively). Additionally, ALT and GGT levels at baseline were significantly associated with improvements in the MAST score (P < 0.001 and <0.001, respectively). Conclusion Pemafibrate led to improvements in the MEFIB index and MAST score, as well as liver function. It is a promising therapeutic agent for patients with MASLD and hypertriglyceridemia with the potential to reduce liver-related events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Ichikawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Koukan HospitalKawasakiJapan
| | - Haruki Oba
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Koukan HospitalKawasakiJapan
| | - Mai Owada
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Koukan HospitalKawasakiJapan
| | - Kazuki Watanabe
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Koukan HospitalKawasakiJapan
| | - Tsubasa Yoshimura
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Koukan HospitalKawasakiJapan
| | - Ayako Fuchigami
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Koukan HospitalKawasakiJapan
| | - Atsushi Nakamura
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyNippon Koukan HospitalKawasakiJapan
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Rao G, Peng X, Li X, An K, He H, Fu X, Li S, An Z. Unmasking the enigma of lipid metabolism in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: from mechanism to the clinic. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1294267. [PMID: 38089874 PMCID: PMC10711211 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1294267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly defined as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a disorder marked by the excessive deposition of lipids in the liver, giving rise to a spectrum of liver pathologies encompassing steatohepatitis, fibrosis/cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite the alarming increase in its prevalence, the US Food and Drug Administration has yet to approve effective pharmacological therapeutics for clinical use. MASLD is characterized by the accretion of lipids within the hepatic system, arising from a disarray in lipid provision (whether through the absorption of circulating lipids or de novo lipogenesis) and lipid elimination (via free fatty acid oxidation or the secretion of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins). This disarray leads to the accumulation of lipotoxic substances, cellular pressure, damage, and fibrosis. Indeed, the regulation of the lipid metabolism pathway is intricate and multifaceted, involving a myriad of factors, such as membrane transport proteins, metabolic enzymes, and transcription factors. Here, we will review the existing literature on the key process of lipid metabolism in MASLD to understand the latest progress in this molecular mechanism. Notably, de novo lipogenesis and the roles of its two main transcription factors and other key metabolic enzymes are highlighted. Furthermore, we will delve into the realm of drug research, examining the recent progress made in understanding lipid metabolism in MASLD. Additionally, we will outline prospective avenues for future drug research on MASLD based on our unique perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guocheng Rao
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xi Peng
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Xinqiong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Kang An
- General Practice Ward/International Medical Center Ward, General Practice Medical Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Multimorbidity Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - He He
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xianghui Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center, West China Hospital, Sichuan University and Collaborative Innovation Center of Biotherapy, Chengdu, China
| | - Shuangqing Li
- General Practice Ward/International Medical Center Ward, General Practice Medical Center, National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, Multimorbidity Laboratory, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhenmei An
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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8
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Yanai H, Adachi H, Hakoshima M, Iida S, Katsuyama H. Metabolic-Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease-Its Pathophysiology, Association with Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease, and Treatments. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:15473. [PMID: 37895151 PMCID: PMC10607514 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242015473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a chronic liver disease that affects more than a quarter of the global population and whose prevalence is increasing worldwide due to the pandemic of obesity. Obesity, impaired glucose metabolism, high blood pressure and atherogenic dyslipidemia are risk factors for MASLD. Therefore, insulin resistance may be closely associated with the development and progression of MASLD. Hepatic entry of increased fatty acids released from adipose tissue, increase in fatty acid synthesis and reduced fatty acid oxidation in the liver and hepatic overproduction of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins may induce the development of MASLD. Since insulin resistance also induces atherosclerosis, the leading cause for death in MASLD patients is cardiovascular disease. Considering that the development of cardiovascular diseases determines the prognosis of MASLD patients, the therapeutic interventions for MASLD should reduce body weight and improve coronary risk factors, in addition to an improving in liver function. Lifestyle modifications, such as improved diet and increased exercise, and surgical interventions, such as bariatric surgery and intragastric balloons, have shown to improve MASLD by reducing body weight. Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) have been shown to improve coronary risk factors and to suppress the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases. Both SGLT2i and GLP-1 have been reported to improve liver enzymes, hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. We recently reported that the selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-alpha (PPARα) modulator pemafibrate improved liver function. PPARα agonists have multiple anti-atherogenic properties. Here, we consider the pathophysiology of MASLD and the mechanisms of action of such drugs and whether such drugs and the combination therapy of such drugs could be the treatments for MASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hidekatsu Yanai
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, Kohnodai Hospital, 1-7-1 Kohnodai, Ichikawa 272-8516, Japan; (H.A.); (M.H.); (S.I.); (H.K.)
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9
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Bołdys A, Bułdak Ł, Maligłówka M, Surma S, Okopień B. Potential Therapeutic Strategies in the Treatment of Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1789. [PMID: 37893507 PMCID: PMC10608225 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic-associated Fatty Liver Disease is one of the outstanding challenges in gastroenterology. The increasing incidence of the disease is undoubtedly connected with the ongoing obesity pandemic. The lack of specific symptoms in the early phases and the grave complications of the disease require an active approach to prompt diagnosis and treatment. Therapeutic lifestyle changes should be introduced in a great majority of patients; but, in many cases, the adherence is not satisfactory. There is a great need for an effective pharmacological therapy for Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease, especially before the onset of steatohepatitis. Currently, there are no specific recommendations on the selection of drugs to treat liver steatosis and prevent patients from progression toward more advanced stages (steatohepatitis, cirrhosis, and cancer). Therefore, in this Review, we provide data on the clinical efficacy of therapeutic interventions that might improve the course of Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease. These include the drugs used in the treatment of obesity and hyperlipidemias, as well as affecting the gut microbiota and endocrine system, and other experimental approaches, including functional foods. Finally, we provide advice on the selection of drugs for patients with concomitant Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Łukasz Bułdak
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Silesia, Medykow 18, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
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Fuior EV, Zvintzou E, Filippatos T, Giannatou K, Mparnia V, Simionescu M, Gafencu AV, Kypreos KE. Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor α in Lipoprotein Metabolism and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2696. [PMID: 37893070 PMCID: PMC10604751 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are a group of ligand-binding transcription factors with pivotal action in regulating pleiotropic signaling pathways of energetic metabolism, immune responses and cell proliferation and differentiation. A significant body of evidence indicates that the PPARα receptor is an important modulator of plasma lipid and lipoprotein metabolism, with pluripotent effects influencing the lipid and apolipoprotein cargo of both atherogenic and antiatherogenic lipoproteins and their functionality. Clinical evidence supports an important role of PPARα agonists (fibric acid derivatives) in the treatment of hypertriglyceridemia and/or low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels, although the effects of clinical trials are contradictory and point to a reduction in the risk of nonfatal and fatal myocardial infarction events. In this manuscript, we provide an up-to-date critical review of the existing relevant literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Valeria Fuior
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology, “Nicolae Simionescu” of the Romanian Academy, 050568 Bucharest, Romania; (E.V.F.); (E.Z.); (M.S.)
| | - Evangelia Zvintzou
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology, “Nicolae Simionescu” of the Romanian Academy, 050568 Bucharest, Romania; (E.V.F.); (E.Z.); (M.S.)
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26500 Rio Achaias, Greece; (K.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Theodosios Filippatos
- Internal Medicine Clinic, Department of Medicine, University of Crete, 71500 Heraklion, Greece;
| | - Katerina Giannatou
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26500 Rio Achaias, Greece; (K.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Victoria Mparnia
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26500 Rio Achaias, Greece; (K.G.); (V.M.)
| | - Maya Simionescu
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology, “Nicolae Simionescu” of the Romanian Academy, 050568 Bucharest, Romania; (E.V.F.); (E.Z.); (M.S.)
| | - Anca Violeta Gafencu
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology, “Nicolae Simionescu” of the Romanian Academy, 050568 Bucharest, Romania; (E.V.F.); (E.Z.); (M.S.)
| | - Kyriakos E. Kypreos
- Institute of Cellular Biology and Pathology, “Nicolae Simionescu” of the Romanian Academy, 050568 Bucharest, Romania; (E.V.F.); (E.Z.); (M.S.)
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Medicine, University of Patras, 26500 Rio Achaias, Greece; (K.G.); (V.M.)
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Sciences, European University Cyprus, 2404 Nicosia, Cyprus
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Kamata S, Honda A, Ishii I. Current Clinical Trial Status and Future Prospects of PPAR-Targeted Drugs for Treating Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1264. [PMID: 37627329 PMCID: PMC10452531 DOI: 10.3390/biom13081264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is increasing globally and is raising serious concerns regarding the increasing medical and economic burden incurred for their treatment. The progression of NASH to more severe conditions such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma requires liver transplantation to avoid death. Therefore, therapeutic intervention is required in the NASH stage, although no therapeutic drugs are currently available for this. Several anti-NASH candidate drugs have been developed that enable treatment via the modulation of distinct signaling cascades and include a series of drugs targeting peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) subtypes (PPARα/δ/γ) that are considered to be attractive because they can regulate both systemic lipid metabolism and inflammation. Multiple PPAR dual/pan agonists have been developed but only a few of them have been evaluated in clinical trials for NAFLD/NASH. Herein, we review the current clinical trial status and future prospects of PPAR-targeted drugs for treating NAFLD/NASH. In addition, we summarize our recent findings on the binding modes and the potencies/efficacies of several candidate PPAR dual/pan agonists to estimate their therapeutic potentials against NASH. Considering that the development of numerous PPAR dual/pan agonists has been abandoned because of their serious side effects, we also propose a repositioning of the already approved, safety-proven PPAR-targeted drugs against NAFLD/NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Isao Ishii
- Department of Health Chemistry, Showa Pharmaceutical University, Machida, Tokyo 194-8543, Japan; (S.K.); (A.H.)
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Katsuyama H, Yanai H, Adachi H, Hakoshima M. A Significant Effect of Pemafibrate on Hepatic Steatosis and Fibrosis Indexes in Patients With Hypertriglyceridemia. Gastroenterology Res 2023; 16:240-243. [PMID: 37691751 PMCID: PMC10482606 DOI: 10.14740/gr1656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background We previously reported that the selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha modulator, pemafibrate, significantly reduced serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) and significantly increased serum albumin levels at 3, 6 and 12 months after the start of pemafibrate, with an improvement of atherogenic dyslipidemia, in patients with hypertriglyceridemia. Methods We performed a post hoc analysis of our previous data obtained from patients with hypertriglyceridemia who had been prescribed pemafibrate continuously for 1 year or longer. We compared the indexes for hepatic steatosis (hepatic steatosis index (HSI)) and fibrosis (nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) fibrosis score (NFS), AST to platelet ratio index (APRI) and FIB-4 index) at baseline with the data at 1 year after the start of pemafibrate. Results Pemafibrate significantly reduced HSI at 1 year after the start of pemafibrate. NFS did not show a significant change after 1 year. However, APRI was significantly reduced by pemafibrate after 1 year. FIB-4 index significantly decreased in patients with baseline FIB-4 index ≥ 1.45 at 1 year after the start of pemafibrate. HSI at baseline tended to be negatively correlated with change in HSI after 1 year. There was no significant correlation between NFS at baseline and change in this score after 1 year. APRI and FIB-4 index at baseline were significantly and negatively correlated with changes in APRI and FIB-4 index at 1 year after the start of pemafibrate. Conclusions The 1-year pemafibrate treatment improved hepatic steatosis and fibrosis indexes in patients with hypertriglyceridemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hisayuki Katsuyama
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Center for Global Health and Medicine Kohnodai Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hidekatsu Yanai
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Center for Global Health and Medicine Kohnodai Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Hiroki Adachi
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Center for Global Health and Medicine Kohnodai Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Mariko Hakoshima
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Center for Global Health and Medicine Kohnodai Hospital, Chiba, Japan
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