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Huttasch M, Roden M, Kahl S. Obesity and MASLD: Is weight loss the (only) key to treat metabolic liver disease? Metabolism 2024; 157:155937. [PMID: 38782182 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2024.155937] [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: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) closely associates with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Lifestyle intervention and bariatric surgery aiming at substantial weight loss are cornerstones of MASLD treatment by improving histological outcomes and reducing risks of comorbidities. Originally developed as antihyperglycemic drugs, incretin (co-)agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors also reduce steatosis and cardiorenovascular events. Certain incretin agonists effectively improve histological features of MASLD, but not fibrosis. Of note, beneficial effects on MASLD may not necessarily require weight loss. Despite moderate weight gain, one PPARγ agonist improved adipose tissue and MASLD with certain benefit on fibrosis in post-hoc analyses. Likewise, the first THRβ-agonist was recently provisionally approved because of significant improvements of MASLD and fibrosis. We here discuss liver-related and metabolic effects induced by different MASLD treatments and their association with weight loss. Therefore, we compare results from clinical trials on drugs acting via weight loss (incretin (co)agonists, SGLT2 inhibitors) with those exerting no weight loss (pioglitazone; resmetirom). Furthermore, other drugs in development directly targeting hepatic lipid metabolism (lipogenesis inhibitors, FGF21 analogs) are addressed. Although THRβ-agonism may effectively improve hepatic outcomes, MASLD treatment concepts should consider all cardiometabolic risk factors for effective reduction of morbidity and mortality in the affected people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maximilian Huttasch
- Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Partner Düsseldorf, München-Neuherberg, Germany.
| | - Michael Roden
- Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Partner Düsseldorf, München-Neuherberg, Germany; Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital Düsseldorf, Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany.
| | - Sabine Kahl
- Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, Germany; German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Partner Düsseldorf, München-Neuherberg, Germany.
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2
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Unagolla JM, Das S, Flanagan R, Oehler M, Menon JU. Targeting chronic liver diseases: Molecular markers, drug delivery strategies and future perspectives. Int J Pharm 2024; 660:124381. [PMID: 38917958 PMCID: PMC11246230 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Chronic liver inflammation, a pervasive global health issue, results in millions of annual deaths due to its progression from fibrosis to the more severe forms of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This insidious condition stems from diverse factors such as obesity, genetic conditions, alcohol abuse, viral infections, autoimmune diseases, and toxic accumulation, manifesting as chronic liver diseases (CLDs) such as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury, and autoimmune hepatitis. Late detection of CLDs necessitates effective treatments to inhibit and potentially reverse disease progression. However, current therapies exhibit limitations in consistency and safety. A potential breakthrough lies in nanoparticle-based drug delivery strategies, offering targeted delivery to specific liver cell types, such as hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, and hepatic stellate cells. This review explores molecular targets for CLD treatment, ongoing clinical trials, recent advances in nanoparticle-based drug delivery, and the future outlook of this research field. Early intervention is crucial for chronic liver disease. Having a comprehensive understanding of current treatments, molecular biomarkers and novel nanoparticle-based drug delivery strategies can have enormous impact in guiding future strategies for the prevention and treatment of CLDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janitha M Unagolla
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Subarna Das
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Riley Flanagan
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Marin Oehler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA
| | - Jyothi U Menon
- Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA; Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI 02881, USA.
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3
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Hadfield CM, Walker JK, Dastvan R, Arnatt C, McCommis KS. Computational structural prediction and chemical inhibition of the human mitochondrial pyruvate carrier protein heterodimer complex. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.16.594520. [PMID: 39071381 PMCID: PMC11275797 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.16.594520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
The mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC) plays a role in numerous diseases including neurodegeneration, metabolically dependent cancers, and the development of insulin resistance. Several previous studies in genetic mouse models or with existing inhibitors suggest that inhibition of the MPC could be used as a viable therapeutic strategy in these diseases. However, the MPC's structure is unknown, making it difficult to screen for and develop therapeutically viable inhibitors. Currently known MPC inhibitors would make for poor drugs due to their poor pharmacokinetic properties, or in the case of the thiazolidinediones (TZDs), off-target specificity for peroxisome-proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) leads to unwanted side effects. In this study, we develop several structural models for the MPC heterodimer complex and investigate the chemical interactions required for the binding of these known inhibitors to MPC and PPARγ. Based on these models, the MPC most likely takes on outward-facing (OF) and inward-facing (IF) conformations during pyruvate transport, and inhibitors likely plug the carrier to inhibit pyruvate transport. Although some chemical interactions are similar between MPC and PPARγ binding, there is likely enough difference to reduce PPARγ specificity for future development of novel, more specific MPC inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christy M. Hadfield
- Edward A. Doisy Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine
| | - John K. Walker
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine
- Department of Chemistry, Saint Louis University
| | - Reza Dastvan
- Edward A. Doisy Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine
| | - Chris Arnatt
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine
- Department of Chemistry, Saint Louis University
| | - Kyle S. McCommis
- Edward A. Doisy Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine
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4
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Petroni ML, Perazza F, Marchesini G. Breakthrough in the Treatment of Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: Is it all over? Dig Liver Dis 2024:S1590-8658(24)00722-9. [PMID: 38972788 DOI: 10.1016/j.dld.2024.04.021] [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: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
On March 14, 2024, after more than 25 years of intense research and a long series of failures, the Food and Drug Administration approved resmetirom as first drug for the treatment of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with fibrosis (now Metabolic-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease - MASLD). The present review covers this difficult process, finally providing a drug to complement lifestyle intervention, that has long been the sole approved therapeutic intervention. However, the availability of a drug shown to reduce disease progression in advanced stages of diseases opens a series of questions that deserve even more intense research. How to continue ongoing trials? How to generate an appropriate use of resmetirom in the community, limiting treatment according to predefined criteria and according to individual risk assessment? How to guarantee that both hepatic and non-hepatic comorbidities are appropriately targeted? How to define cost-effective strategies that might prevent the generation of unacceptable differences within the population, given the high costs of novel drugs and the extremely high numbers of candidates to treatment? Only a close surveillance of drug use in the real world, generated by insurance databases and national healthcare system registries, might provide adequate answers to these compelling questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Letizia Petroni
- Unit of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism, IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Federica Perazza
- Unit of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism, IRCCS-Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Bologna, Bologna, Italy; Alma Mater University, Bologna, Italy
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Singal AK, Shah VH, Malhi H. Emerging targets for therapy in ALD: Lessons from NASH. Hepatology 2024; 80:223-237. [PMID: 36938877 PMCID: PMC10511666 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023]
Abstract
Alcohol-associated liver disease due to harmful alcohol use and NAFLD associated with metabolic syndrome are the 2 most common liver diseases worldwide. Control of respective risk factors is the cornerstone in the long-term management of these diseases. Furthermore, there are no effective therapies. Both diseases are characterized by metabolic derangements; thus, the focus of this review was to broaden our understanding of metabolic targets investigated in NAFLD, and how these can be applied to alcohol-associated liver disease. Conserved pathogenic pathways such as dysregulated lipid metabolism, cell death pathways including apoptosis and activation of innate immune cells, and stellate cells mediate both alcohol and NAFLDs, resulting in histological abnormalities of steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis. However, pathways such as gut microbiome changes, glucose metabolism and insulin resistance, inflammatory signaling, and microRNA abnormalities are distinct in these 2 diseases. In this review article, we describe conserved and distinct pathogenic pathways highlighting therapeutic targets that may be of potential in both diseases and those that are unique to each disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashwani K. Singal
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Avera Transplant Institute, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA
- VA Medical Center, Sioux Falls, South Dakota, USA
| | - Vijay H. Shah
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
| | - Harmeet Malhi
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota, USA
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Malandris K, Papandreou S, Vasilakou D, Kakotrichi P, Sarakapina A, Kalopitas G, Karagiannis T, Giouleme O, Bekiari E, Liakos A, Iatridi F, Paschos P, Sinakos E, Tsapas A. Efficacy of pharmacologic interventions on magnetic resonance imaging biomarkers in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: systematic review and network meta-analysis. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2024; 39:1219-1229. [PMID: 38627972 DOI: 10.1111/jgh.16559] [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: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Several agents are under investigation for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). We assessed the comparative efficacy of pharmacologic interventions for patients with NAFLD focusing on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) biomarkers. METHODS We searched Medline, Embase, and CENTRAL. We included randomized controlled trials of more than 12 weeks of intervention that recruited patients with biopsy-confirmed or MRI-confirmed NAFLD and assessed the efficacy of interventions on liver fat content (LFC) and fibrosis by means of MRI. We performed random-effects frequentist network meta-analyses and assessed confidence in our estimates using the CINeMA (Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis) approach. RESULTS We included 47 trials (8583 patients). Versus placebo, thiazolidinediones were the most efficacious for the absolute change in LFC, followed by vitamin E, fibroblast growth factor (FGF) analogs, and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) with mean differences ranging from -7.46% (95% confidence interval [-11.0, -3.9]) to -4.36% (-7.2, -1.5). No differences between drug classes were evident. Patients receiving GLP-1 RAs or glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP)/GLP-1 RAs were more likely to achieve ≥30% relative reduction in LFC. Among agents, efruxifermin produced the largest reduction in LFC compared to placebo [-13.5% (-18.5, -8.5)], followed by pioglitazone, while being superior to most interventions. The effect of interventions on magnetic resonance elastography assessed fibrosis was small and insignificant. The confidence in our estimates was low to very low. CONCLUSIONS Several drug classes may reduce LFC in patients with NAFLD without a significant effect on fibrosis; nevertheless, trial duration was small, and confidence in the effect estimates was low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Malandris
- Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Stylianos Papandreou
- Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Despoina Vasilakou
- Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Panagiota Kakotrichi
- Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Anna Sarakapina
- First Medical Department, Papageorgiou Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Georgios Kalopitas
- First Medical Department, AHEPA University Hospital, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Thomas Karagiannis
- Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Olga Giouleme
- Second Propaedeutic Medical Department, Hippokration General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Eleni Bekiari
- Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Aris Liakos
- Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Fotini Iatridi
- First Department of Nephrology, Hippokration General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Paschalis Paschos
- First Medical Department, Papageorgiou Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Emmanouil Sinakos
- Fourth Medical Department, Hippokration General Hospital of Thessaloniki, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Apostolos Tsapas
- Clinical Research and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Harris Manchester College, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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EASL-EASD-EASO Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Management of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD). Obes Facts 2024; 17:374-444. [PMID: 38852583 PMCID: PMC11299976 DOI: 10.1159/000539371] [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] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously termed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is defined as steatotic liver disease (SLD) in the presence of one or more cardiometabolic risk factor(s) and the absence of harmful alcohol intake. The spectrum of MASLD includes steatosis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH, previously NASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis and MASH-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This joint EASL-EASD-EASO guideline provides an update on definitions, prevention, screening, diagnosis and treatment for MASLD. Case-finding strategies for MASLD with liver fibrosis, using non-invasive tests, should be applied in individuals with cardiometabolic risk factors, abnormal liver enzymes, and/or radiological signs of hepatic steatosis, particularly in the presence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) or obesity with additional metabolic risk factor(s). A stepwise approach using blood-based scores (such as FIB-4) and, sequentially, imaging techniques (such as transient elastography) is suitable to rule-out/in advanced fibrosis, which is predictive of liver-related outcomes. In adults with MASLD, lifestyle modification - including weight loss, dietary changes, physical exercise and discouraging alcohol consumption - as well as optimal management of comorbidities - including use of incretin-based therapies (e.g. semaglutide, tirzepatide) for T2D or obesity, if indicated - is advised. Bariatric surgery is also an option in individuals with MASLD and obesity. If locally approved and dependent on the label, adults with non-cirrhotic MASH and significant liver fibrosis (stage ≥2) should be considered for a MASH-targeted treatment with resmetirom, which demonstrated histological effectiveness on steatohepatitis and fibrosis with an acceptable safety and tolerability profile. No MASH-targeted pharmacotherapy can currently be recommended for the cirrhotic stage. Management of MASH-related cirrhosis includes adaptations of metabolic drugs, nutritional counselling, surveillance for portal hypertension and HCC, as well as liver transplantation in decompensated cirrhosis.
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Tacke F, Horn P, Wai-Sun Wong V, Ratziu V, Bugianesi E, Francque S, Zelber-Sagi S, Valenti L, Roden M, Schick F, Yki-Järvinen H, Gastaldelli A, Vettor R, Frühbeck G, Dicker D. EASL-EASD-EASO Clinical Practice Guidelines on the management of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). J Hepatol 2024:S0168-8278(24)00329-5. [PMID: 38851997 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2024.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously termed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is defined as steatotic liver disease (SLD) in the presence of one or more cardiometabolic risk factor(s) and the absence of harmful alcohol intake. The spectrum of MASLD includes steatosis, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH, previously NASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis and MASH-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This joint EASL-EASD-EASO guideline provides an update on definitions, prevention, screening, diagnosis and treatment for MASLD. Case-finding strategies for MASLD with liver fibrosis, using non-invasive tests, should be applied in individuals with cardiometabolic risk factors, abnormal liver enzymes, and/or radiological signs of hepatic steatosis, particularly in the presence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) or obesity with additional metabolic risk factor(s). A stepwise approach using blood-based scores (such as FIB-4) and, sequentially, imaging techniques (such as transient elastography) is suitable to rule-out/in advanced fibrosis, which is predictive of liver-related outcomes. In adults with MASLD, lifestyle modification - including weight loss, dietary changes, physical exercise and discouraging alcohol consumption - as well as optimal management of comorbidities - including use of incretin-based therapies (e.g. semaglutide, tirzepatide) for T2D or obesity, if indicated - is advised. Bariatric surgery is also an option in individuals with MASLD and obesity. If locally approved and dependent on the label, adults with non-cirrhotic MASH and significant liver fibrosis (stage ≥2) should be considered for a MASH-targeted treatment with resmetirom, which demonstrated histological effectiveness on steatohepatitis and fibrosis with an acceptable safety and tolerability profile. No MASH-targeted pharmacotherapy can currently be recommended for the cirrhotic stage. Management of MASH-related cirrhosis includes adaptations of metabolic drugs, nutritional counselling, surveillance for portal hypertension and HCC, as well as liver transplantation in decompensated cirrhosis.
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Qi X, Li J, Caussy C, Teng GJ, Loomba R. Epidemiology, screening, and co-management of type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00875. [PMID: 38722246 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as NAFLD, is increasingly recognized as a prevalent global burden. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), another important metabolic disease, is considered a major contributor to the development of MASLD. MASLD and T2DM have a strong association with each other due to shared pathogenic mechanisms. The co-existence of the 2 diseases increases the risk of liver-related adverse outcomes and imposes a heavier burden on extrahepatic outcomes, representing a substantial public health issue. Effective assessment and management of T2DM combined with MASLD necessitate a multidisciplinary approach. The emergence of numerous RCTs has shed light on the treatment of T2DM combined with MASLD. This review uncovers the epidemiology of the intertwined T2DM and MASLD, offers insights into the evaluation of hepatic fibrosis in patients with T2DM, glucose monitoring in the MASLD population, and provides comprehensive co-management strategies for addressing both diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolong Qi
- Department of Radiology, Center of Portal Hypertension, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nurturing Center of Jiangsu Province for State Laboratory of AI Imaging and Interventional Radiology (Southeast University), Nanjing, China
- Basic Medicine Research and Innovation Center of Ministry of Education, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Nanjing, China
| | - Jie Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Cyrielle Caussy
- Faculté de Médecine Lyon Sud, Université Lyon 1, Hospices Civils de Lyon, Lyon, France
- MASLD Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Gao-Jun Teng
- Basic Medicine Research and Innovation Center of Ministry of Education, Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Digital Medical Engineering, Nanjing, China
- Department of Radiology, Center of Interventional Radiology and Vascular Surgery, Zhongda Hospital, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Rohit Loomba
- MASLD Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
- School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California, USA
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Tincopa MA, Anstee QM, Loomba R. New and emerging treatments for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis. Cell Metab 2024; 36:912-926. [PMID: 38608696 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2024.03.011] [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: 12/01/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) is a leading etiology of chronic liver disease worldwide, with increasing incidence and prevalence in the setting of the obesity epidemic. MASH is also a leading indication for liver transplantation, given its associated risk of progression to end-stage liver disease. A key challenge in managing MASH is the lack of approved pharmacotherapy. In its absence, lifestyle interventions with a focus on healthy nutrition and regular physical activity have been the cornerstone of therapy. Real-world efficacy and sustainability of lifestyle interventions are low, however. Pharmacotherapy development for MASH is emerging with promising data from several agents with different mechanisms of action (MOAs) in phase 3 clinical trials. In this review, we highlight ongoing challenges and potential solutions in drug development for MASH and provide an overview of available data from emerging therapies across multiple MOAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica A Tincopa
- MASLD Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92103, USA
| | - Quentin M Anstee
- Translational & Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Newcastle NIHR Biomedical Research Center, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Rohit Loomba
- MASLD Research Center, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92103, USA; School of Public Health, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92103, USA.
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11
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Ciardullo S, Muraca E, Vergani M, Invernizzi P, Perseghin G. Advancements in pharmacological treatment of NAFLD/MASLD: a focus on metabolic and liver-targeted interventions. Gastroenterol Rep (Oxf) 2024; 12:goae029. [PMID: 38681750 PMCID: PMC11052658 DOI: 10.1093/gastro/goae029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024] Open
Abstract
In the present narrative review, we have summarized evidence on the pharmacological treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). We start by reviewing the epidemiology of the condition and its close association with obesity and type 2 diabetes. We then discuss how randomized-controlled trials are performed following guidance from regulatory agencies, including differences and similarities between requirements of the US Food and Drug Administration and the European Medicine Agency. Difficulties and hurdles related to limitations of liver biopsy, a large number of screening failures in recruiting patients, as well as unpredictable response rates in the placebo group are evaluated. Finally, we recapitulate the strategies employed for potential drug treatments of this orphan condition. The first is to repurpose drugs that originally targeted T2DM and/or obesity, such as pioglitazone, glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (liraglutide and semaglutide), multi-agonists (tirzepatide and retatrutide), and sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitors. The second is to develop drugs specifically targeting NAFLD/MASLD. Among those, we focused on resmetirom, fibroblast growth factor 21 analogs, and lanifibranor, as they are currently in Phase 3 of their clinical trial development. While many failures have characterized the field of pharmacological treatment of NAFLD/MASLD in the past, it is likely that approval of the first treatments is near. As occurs in many chronic conditions, combination therapy might lead to better outcomes. In the case of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, we speculate that drugs treating underlying metabolic co-morbidities might play a bigger role in the earlier stages of disease, while liver-targeting molecules will become vital in patients with more advanced disease in terms of inflammation and fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Ciardullo
- Department of Medicine and Rehabilitation, Policlinico di Monza, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Emanuele Muraca
- Department of Medicine and Rehabilitation, Policlinico di Monza, Monza, Italy
| | - Michela Vergani
- Department of Medicine and Rehabilitation, Policlinico di Monza, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Pietro Invernizzi
- Division of Gastroenterology, Center for Autoimmune Liver Diseases, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
- European Reference Network on Hepatological Diseases (ERN RARE-LIVER) San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | - Gianluca Perseghin
- Department of Medicine and Rehabilitation, Policlinico di Monza, Monza, Italy
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Milan, Italy
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Jokinen MJ, Luukkonen PK. Hepatic mitochondrial reductive stress in the pathogenesis and treatment of steatotic liver disease. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2024; 45:319-334. [PMID: 38471991 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.02.003] [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: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
Steatotic liver diseases (SLDs) affect one-third of the population, but the pathogenesis underlying these diseases is not well understood, limiting the available treatments. A common factor in SLDs is increased hepatic mitochondrial reductive stress, which occurs as a result of excessive lipid and alcohol metabolism. Recent research has also shown that genetic risk factors contribute to this stress. This review aims to explore how these risk factors increase hepatic mitochondrial reductive stress and how it disrupts hepatic metabolism, leading to SLDs. Additionally, the review will discuss the latest clinical studies on pharmaceutical treatments for SLDs, specifically peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR-γ) agonists, thyroid hormone receptor (THR) agonists, acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) inhibitors, and mitochondrial uncouplers. These treatments have a common effect of decreasing hepatic mitochondrial reductive stress, which has been largely overlooked.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mari J Jokinen
- Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Abdominal Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Panu K Luukkonen
- Minerva Foundation Institute for Medical Research, Helsinki, Finland; Department of Internal Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland; Abdominal Center, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
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13
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Noureddin M. MASH clinical trials and drugs pipeline: An impending tsunami. Hepatology 2024:01515467-990000000-00811. [PMID: 38502810 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, formerly known as NAFLD, has ascended to prominence as the predominant chronic liver disease in Western countries and now stands as a leading cause of liver transplantations. In the more advanced stage, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) may lead to fibrosis, a gateway to cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure. Despite extensive research and exploration of various drug mechanisms, the anticipation for the inaugural approved drug to materialize by 2024 is palpable, marking a significant milestone. Numerous pathways have been investigated for MASH treatment, exploring thyroid hormone receptors, glucagon-like peptides 1, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors, and agents influencing hepatic steatosis synthesis, inflammatory pathways, genetic components, fibrosis mechanisms, and an array of other avenues. Over time, key regulatory directions have crystallized, now manifesting in 2 primary endpoints under investigation: resolution of steatohepatitis without worsening fibrosis and/or improvement of fibrosis stage without worsening of steatohepatitis, especially used in phase 3 clinical trials, while alternative noninvasive endpoints are explored in phase 2 trials. The prospect of proving efficacy in clinical trials opens doors to combination therapies, evaluating the ideal combination of drugs to yield comprehensive benefits, extending beyond the liver to other organs. Certain combination drug trials are already underway. In this review, we discuss the forefront of MASH drug research as of 2023/2024, illuminating mechanisms, outcomes, and future trajectories. Furthermore, we tackle the challenges confronting MASH trials and propose potential strategies for surmounting them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mazen Noureddin
- Sherrie & Alan Conover Center for Liver Disease & Transplantation, Underwood Center for Digestive Disorders Department of Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
- Houston Research Institute, Houston, Texas, USA
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14
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Adiwidjaja J, Spires J, Brouwer KLR. Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic (PBPK) Model Predictions of Disease Mediated Changes in Drug Disposition in Patients with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). Pharm Res 2024; 41:441-462. [PMID: 38351228 DOI: 10.1007/s11095-024-03664-8] [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: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE This study was designed to verify a virtual population representing patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to support the implementation of a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling approach for prediction of disease-related changes in drug pharmacokinetics. METHODS A virtual NAFLD patient population was developed in GastroPlus (v.9.8.2) by accounting for pathophysiological changes associated with the disease and proteomics-informed alterations in the abundance of metabolizing enzymes and transporters pertinent to drug disposition. The NAFLD population model was verified using exemplar drugs where elimination is influenced predominantly by cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes (chlorzoxazone, caffeine, midazolam, pioglitazone) or by transporters (rosuvastatin, 11C-metformin, morphine and the glucuronide metabolite of morphine). RESULTS PBPK model predictions of plasma concentrations of all the selected drugs and hepatic radioactivity levels of 11C-metformin were consistent with the clinically-observed data. Importantly, the PBPK simulations using the virtual NAFLD population model provided reliable estimates of the extent of changes in key pharmacokinetic parameters for the exemplar drugs, with mean predicted ratios (NAFLD patients divided by healthy individuals) within 0.80- to 1.25-fold of the clinically-reported values, except for midazolam (prediction-fold difference of 0.72). CONCLUSION A virtual NAFLD population model within the PBPK framework was successfully developed with good predictive capability of estimating disease-related changes in drug pharmacokinetics. This supports the use of a PBPK modeling approach for prediction of the pharmacokinetics of new investigational or repurposed drugs in patients with NAFLD and may help inform dose adjustments for drugs commonly used to treat comorbidities in this patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffry Adiwidjaja
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Simulations Plus, Inc, Lancaster, CA, USA
| | | | - Kim L R Brouwer
- Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
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15
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Wang Y, Yu H, Cen Z, Zhu Y, Wu W. Drug targets regulate systemic metabolism and provide new horizons to treat nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. Metabol Open 2024; 21:100267. [PMID: 38187470 PMCID: PMC10770762 DOI: 10.1016/j.metop.2023.100267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is the advanced stage of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) with rapidly rising global prevalence. It is featured with severe hepatocyte apoptosis, inflammation and hepatic lipogenesis. The drugs directly targeting the processes of steatosis, inflammation and fibrosis are currently under clinical investigation. Nevertheless, the long-term ineffectiveness and remarkable adverse effects are well documented, and new concepts are required to tackle with the root causes of NASH progression. We critically assess the recently validated drug targets that regulate the systemic metabolism to ameliorate NASH. Thermogenesis promoted by mitochondrial uncouplers restores systemic energy expenditure. Furthermore, regulation of mitochondrial proteases and proteins that are pivotal for intracellular metabolic homeostasis normalize mitochondrial function. Secreted proteins also improve systemic metabolism, and NASH is ameliorated by agonizing receptors of secreted proteins with small molecules. We analyze the drug design, the advantages and shortcomings of these novel drug candidates. Meanwhile, the structural modification of current NASH therapeutics significantly increased their selectivity, efficacy and safety. Furthermore, the arising CRISPR-Cas9 screen strategy on liver organoids has enabled the identification of new genes that mediate lipid metabolism, which may serve as promising drug targets. In summary, this article discusses the in-depth novel mechanisms and the multidisciplinary approaches, and they provide new horizons to treat NASH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yibing Wang
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
- Shanghai Frontiers Science Research Base of Exercise and Metabolic Health, China
| | - Hanhan Yu
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Zhipeng Cen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Malignant Tumor Epigenetics and Gene Regulation, Guangdong-Hong Kong Joint Laboratory for RNA Medicine, Medical Research Center, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510120, China
- Nanhai Translational Innovation Center of Precision Immunology, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hospital, Foshan, 528200, China
| | - Yutong Zhu
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Wenyi Wu
- School of Kinesiology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, 200438, China
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16
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Machado MV. MASLD treatment-a shift in the paradigm is imminent. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1316284. [PMID: 38146424 PMCID: PMC10749497 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1316284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
MASLD prevalence is growing towards the leading cause of end-stage liver disease. Up to today, the most effective treatment is weight loss. Weight loss interventions are moving from lifestyle changes to bariatric surgery or endoscopy, and, more recently, to a new wave of anti-obesity drugs that can compete with bariatric surgery. Liver-targeted therapy is a necessity for those patients who already present liver fibrosis. The field is moving fast, and in the near future, we will testify to a disruptive change in MASLD treatment, similar to the paradigm-shift that occurred for hepatitis C almost one decade ago with direct antiviral agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Verdelho Machado
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
- Hospital de Vila Franca de Xira, Vila Franca de Xira, Portugal
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17
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Harrison SA, Dubourg J, Knott M, Colca J. Hyperinsulinemia, an overlooked clue and potential way forward in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Hepatology 2023:01515467-990000000-00671. [PMID: 38051957 DOI: 10.1097/hep.0000000000000710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease is closely associated with other features of the metabolic syndrome such as type 2 diabetes. The progression of the disease may lead to liver fibrosis, which is the main predictor of major adverse liver outcomes. Insulin resistance plays a major role in the pathogenesis of the disease. A component of fasting hyperinsulinemia is a failure of the liver to adjust the peripheral level of insulin due to reduced clearance. The associated fasting hyperinsulinemia has been independently associated as a predictor of major adverse liver outcomes and major adverse cardiovascular events. In this review, we discuss the potential mechanism and entanglement between liver fibrosis and hyperinsulinemia, and we hypothesize that the measure of fasting insulin could become a hepatic functional test within the armamentarium of noninvasive tests for the assessment of Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Julie Dubourg
- Medical Science, Summit Clinical Research, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Maddie Knott
- Clinical Research, Pinnacle Clinical Research, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Jerry Colca
- Research and Development, Cirius Therapeutics, Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA
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18
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Zhang T, Nie Y, Wang J. The emerging significance of mitochondrial targeted strategies in NAFLD treatment. Life Sci 2023; 329:121943. [PMID: 37454757 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2023.121943] [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: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide, ranging from liver steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, which ultimately progresses to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Individuals with NAFLD have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular and extrahepatic cancers. Despite the great progress being made in understanding the pathogenesis and the introduction of new pharmacological targets for NAFLD, no drug or intervention has been accepted for its management. Recent evidence suggests that NAFLD may be a mitochondrial disease, as mitochondrial dysfunction is involved in the pathological processes that lead to NAFLD. In this review, we describe the recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms associated with mitochondrial dysfunction in NAFLD progression. Moreover, we discuss recent advances in the efficacy of mitochondria-targeted compounds (e.g., Mito-Q, MitoVit-E, MitoTEMPO, SS-31, mitochondrial uncouplers, and mitochondrial pyruvate carrier inhibitors) for treating NAFLD. Furthermore, we present some medications currently being tested in clinical trials for NAFLD treatment, such as exercise, mesenchymal stem cells, bile acids and their analogs, and antidiabetic drugs, with a focus on their efficacy in improving mitochondrial function. Based on this evidence, further investigations into the development of mitochondria-based agents may provide new and promising alternatives for NAFLD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China; Key Laboratory of Anesthesiology and Resuscitation (Huazhong University of Science and Technology), Ministry of Education, China; Institute of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
| | - Yingli Nie
- Department of Dermatology, Wuhan Children's Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430014, China.
| | - Jiliang Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430022, China.
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19
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Vitulo M, Gnodi E, Rosini G, Meneveri R, Giovannoni R, Barisani D. Current Therapeutical Approaches Targeting Lipid Metabolism in NAFLD. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12748. [PMID: 37628929 PMCID: PMC10454602 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241612748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD, including nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)) is a high-prevalence disorder, affecting about 1 billion people, which can evolve to more severe conditions like cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD is often concomitant with conditions of the metabolic syndrome, such as central obesity and insulin-resistance, but a specific drug able to revert NAFL and prevent its evolution towards NASH is still lacking. With the liver being a key organ in metabolic processes, the potential therapeutic strategies are many, and range from directly targeting the lipid metabolism to the prevention of tissue inflammation. However, side effects have been reported for the drugs tested up to now. In this review, different approaches to the treatment of NAFLD are presented, including newer therapies and ongoing clinical trials. Particular focus is placed on the reverse cholesterol transport system and on the agonists for nuclear factors like PPAR and FXR, but also drugs initially developed for other conditions such as incretins and thyromimetics along with validated natural compounds that have anti-inflammatory potential. This work provides an overview of the different therapeutic strategies currently being tested for NAFLD, other than, or along with, the recommendation of weight loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuela Vitulo
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (M.V.); (E.G.); (R.M.)
| | - Elisa Gnodi
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (M.V.); (E.G.); (R.M.)
| | - Giulia Rosini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56021 Pisa, Italy; (G.R.); (R.G.)
| | - Raffaella Meneveri
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (M.V.); (E.G.); (R.M.)
| | - Roberto Giovannoni
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, 56021 Pisa, Italy; (G.R.); (R.G.)
| | - Donatella Barisani
- School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20900 Monza, Italy; (M.V.); (E.G.); (R.M.)
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20
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Tavoulari S, Sichrovsky M, Kunji ERS. Fifty years of the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier: New insights into its structure, function, and inhibition. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2023; 238:e14016. [PMID: 37366179 PMCID: PMC10909473 DOI: 10.1111/apha.14016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
The mitochondrial pyruvate carrier (MPC) resides in the mitochondrial inner membrane, where it links cytosolic and mitochondrial metabolism by transporting pyruvate produced in glycolysis into the mitochondrial matrix. Due to its central metabolic role, it has been proposed as a potential drug target for diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, neurodegeneration, and cancers relying on mitochondrial metabolism. Little is known about the structure and mechanism of MPC, as the proteins involved were only identified a decade ago and technical difficulties concerning their purification and stability have hindered progress in functional and structural analyses. The functional unit of MPC is a hetero-dimer comprising two small homologous membrane proteins, MPC1/MPC2 in humans, with the alternative complex MPC1L/MPC2 forming in the testis, but MPC proteins are found throughout the tree of life. The predicted topology of each protomer consists of an amphipathic helix followed by three transmembrane helices. An increasing number of inhibitors are being identified, expanding MPC pharmacology and providing insights into the inhibitory mechanism. Here, we provide critical insights on the composition, structure, and function of the complex and we summarize the different classes of small molecule inhibitors and their potential in therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sotiria Tavoulari
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology UnitUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Maximilian Sichrovsky
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology UnitUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Edmund R. S. Kunji
- Medical Research Council Mitochondrial Biology UnitUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
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21
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Ratziu V, Tacke F. At the dawn of potent therapeutics for fatty liver disease - introducing the miniseries on promising pharmacological targets for NASH. J Hepatol 2023; 79:261-262. [PMID: 37455046 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2023.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Vlad Ratziu
- Sorbonne Université, Institute for Cardiometabolism and Nutrition, Hospital Pitié Salpêtrière, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France.
| | - Frank Tacke
- Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Campus Virchow-Klinikum (CVK) and Campus Charité Mitte (CCM), Berlin, Germany.
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22
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Colca JR, Tanis SP, Kletzien RF, Finck BN. Insulin sensitizers in 2023: lessons learned and new avenues for investigation. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2023; 32:803-811. [PMID: 37755339 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2023.2263369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 'Insulin sensitizers' derived discoveries of the Takeda Company in 1970s. Pioglitazone remains the best in class with beneficial pleiotropic pharmacology, although use is limited by tolerability issues. Various attempts to expand out of this class assumed the primary molecular target was the transcription factor, PPARγ. Findings over the last 10 years have identified new targets of thiazolidinediones (TZDs) that should alter the drug discovery paradigm. AREAS COVERED We review structural classes of experimental insulin sensitizer drugs, some of which have attained limited approval in some markets. The TZD pioglitazone, originally approved in 1999 as a secondary treatment for type 2 diabetes, has demonstrated benefit in apparently diverse spectrums of disease from cardiovascular to neurological issues. New TZDs modulate a newly identified mitochondrial target (the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier) to reprogram metabolism and produce insulin sensitizing pharmacology devoid of tolerability issues. EXPERT OPINION Greater understanding of the mechanism of action of insulin sensitizing drugs can expand the rationale for the fields of treatment and potential for treatment combinations. This understanding can facilitate the registration and broader use of agents with that impact the pathophysiology that underlies chronic metabolic diseases as well as host responses to environmental insults including pathogens, insulin sensitizer, MPC, mitochondrial target, metabolic reprogramming, chronic and infectious disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Brian N Finck
- Department of Medicine, Center for Human Nutrition, Washington University in St Louis, Euclid Ave, MO, USA
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23
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Fyfe I. Safer pioglitazone alternative is effective. Nat Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2023; 20:201. [PMID: 36882559 DOI: 10.1038/s41575-023-00764-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ian Fyfe
- Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology, .
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