Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Chronic Kidney Disease Cross Talk

Interleukin-mediated therapies in liver diseases and comorbidity effects

Cytokines like interleukins (ILs) play important roles in inflammation and innate immune. Yang and Zhang carried out an interesting study related to ILs and hepatic diseases. They described the role of ILs in the pathogenesis and resolution of hepatic disorders. The authors summarized alcohol-related liver disease and virus-induced hepatitis, as far as clinical studies a fortiori carried out on IL-mediated treatments pertaining to these dysfunctions. This editorial contributes to the review by Yang and Zhang titled, "Interleukins in liver disease treatment", and focuses on therapies mediated by ILs in comorbid liver diseases. The documentary search was conducted on recent pertinent literature, primarily using the Google Scholar and PubMed databases.

Lipid droplets in steatotic liver disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review aims to discuss the most recent evidence exploring the role of lipid droplets in steatotic liver disease (SLD). We highlight the breadth of mechanisms by which lipid droplets may contribute to the progression of SLD with a particular focus on the role of lipid droplets as inducers of mechanical stress within hepatocytes and genetic mutations in lipid droplet associated proteins. Finally, this review provides an update on clinical trials exploring the therapeutic potential and strategies targeting lipid droplets.

RECENT FINDINGS

The size, composition and location of hepatic lipid droplets strongly influence the pathological role of these organelles in SLD. Emerging studies are beginning to elucidate the importance of lipid droplet induced hepatocyte mechanical stress. Novel strategies targeting lipid droplets, including the effects of lipid droplet associated protein mutations, show promising therapeutic potential.

SUMMARY

Much more than a histological feature, lipid droplets are complex heterogenous organelles crucial to cellular metabolism with important causative roles in the development and progression of SLD. Lipid droplet induced mechanical stress may exacerbate hepatic inflammation and fibrogenesis and potentially contribute to the development of a pro-carcinogenic hepatic environment. The integration of advancements in genetics and molecular biology in upcoming treatments aspires to transcend symptomatic alleviation and address the fundamental causes and pathological development of SLD.