Fatty Liver Disease

Drug candidate treats severe fatty liver disease by protecting the gut in animal models

Researchers discovered a potential drug developed at Michigan Medicine reverses metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) in animal models by disrupting the disease-driving pathway that links the gut and liver. DT-109 improved gut health, reducing inflammation in livers of nonhuman primates.

Healthy but sedentary individuals show early decline in cellular energy production

A CU Anschutz study reveals reduced mitochondrial efficiency in healthy yet sedentary individuals, which may precede the development of major diseases like cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's. Regular exercise acts as a literal shield for cellular health, helping mitochondria seamlessly switch between burning fat and carbohydrates.

New study finds Americans with severe obesity receive fewer surgeries despite rising need

A new study by Pennington Biomedical and collaborators found that Americans with the highest levels of obesity are undergoing fewer surgical procedures overall. Despite the increasing prevalence of extreme obesity, these individuals appear to be receiving proportionally fewer surgical interventions each year. The research highlights gr...

Risk factors for fatty liver disease may begin to develop as early as the prenatal period and early childhood

A new study by Tampere University researchers found that maternal pre-pregnancy hypertension and child body composition may contribute to the development of fatty liver disease. The study also identified dietary factors, such as high protein intake and low fruit consumption, as risk factors for elevated liver enzyme levels in children.

How big tobacco helped shape the design of ultra-processed foods

A new study reveals how Philip Morris Companies Inc. used cigarette research and flavor engineering to design Lunchables, a successful ultra-processed food for children. The company's strategy was based on optimizing 'technical synergies' between tobacco and food divisions.

Recent advances in the diagnosis and treatment of fat accumulation in liver and pancreas

Researchers highlight latest developments in pathology, diagnosis, and treatment of MASLD and IPFD, revealing correlations with chronic diseases like liver cancer and pancreatic cancer. Innovative treatments, such as AI-driven approaches and organ-targeted therapies, show promise for precision prevention and therapy.

Galectin-3 promotes graft injury via NLRP3 pyroptosis in steatotic liver transplantation

Steatotic donor livers are susceptible to post-transplant dysfunction due to galectin-3 (LGALS3)-mediated pyroptosis. LGALS3 modulates NLRP3 inflammasome activity by regulating its ubiquitination, exacerbating graft injury.

Study illuminates link between fatty liver disease and cardiovascular events

Researchers found a significant association between fatty liver disease and increased cardiovascular risk, including nearly twice the rate of cardiovascular events. Patients with hepatic steatosis had a higher amount of noncalcified, rupture-prone coronary plaque.

Common asthma drug shows promise for reversing fatty liver

Emerging biomarkers and new therapeutic breakthroughs in MASLD and MASLD-HCC

The 28th European Congress of Endocrinology (ECE) starts tomorrow

$10 million grant funds research and solutions on ‘forever chemicals’

A $10 million grant from the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences will support research on PFAS health effects and translate discoveries into real-world solutions. The study aims to identify links between PFAS exposure and metabolic conditions, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes.

Not just insulin: early increases in glucagon in type 2 diabetes are linked to fatty liver disease

A recent study shows that people with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes have elevated glucagon levels following a meal, closely linked to the fat content of their liver. This finding highlights the importance of the liver and glucagon regulation in metabolism.

World Hormone Day 2026

The European Society of Endocrinology organizes World Hormone Day to educate the public about hormone-related health issues. Global endocrine disorders affect millions worldwide, emphasizing the need for proper hormone balance.

How the internal liver clock orchestrates daily fat secretion

A Salk Institute study identifies Fibroblast Growth Factor 1 (FGF1) as the molecular signal that tells the liver when to release fat into the bloodstream, following a precise rhythm timed to the body's internal clock.

Exosomal miR-122-3p identified as key driver of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

A study identified exosomal microRNA-122-3p as a key driver of MASLD pathogenesis. Elevated miR-122-3p levels induced triglyceride accumulation and reactive oxygen species production in liver cells.

UCLA scientists identify zombie immune cells as a driver of fatty liver disease, inflammation and aging

Researchers identify senescent macrophages as a driver of fatty liver disease, inflammation and aging. Clearing these cells reversed liver damage in mice on unhealthy diets.

Early weight gain is linked to lifelong health consequences

A study of over 600,000 people found that early weight gain is associated with a higher risk of dying from various diseases, particularly cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Weight gain during adulthood also increases the risk of premature death, especially for those who develop obesity at a younger age.

Understanding pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis for improved clinical management

Researchers compare viral and MASLD cirrhosis pathogenic mechanisms, identifying shared pathways and diagnostic differences. The study aims to establish a framework for prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of MASLD cirrhosis.

A new mechanism explains how protein production is regulated in fatty liver under metabolic stress

Multi-task deep learning identifies four MASLD subtypes for precision cardiovascular– liver–kidney–metabolic management

The study developed a novel multi-task deep LASSO algorithm that identified six core clinical indicators, establishing four stable MASLD subtypes with distinct characteristics. The classification system enables targeted interventions, prioritizing fibrosis screening and aggressive cardiorenal protection for specific subgroups.

Lower hemoglobin levels can offer several health benefits

A new study by Finnish researchers found that lower hemoglobin levels within the normal range may be beneficial for glucose metabolism and cardiovascular health. The study, conducted on 64 adults, revealed an association between lower hemoglobin levels and improved physical fitness, heart health, and reduced liver fat.

Data-driven subgroups for 3-year risk stratification of incident diabetes and complications in diabetes-free Chinese adults

A study identified metabolic subgroups in diabetes-free Chinese adults to predict 3-year risk of developing diabetes and related complications. The low-risk subgroup had favorable metabolic profiles, while the high-risk subgroup showed poor glycemic control and increased risks of fatty liver disease and cardiovascular events.

$3.4 million grant to improve weight-management programs

A $3.4 million NIH grant will fund a semi-automated feedback system to support people tracking diet, exercise, and weight in weight-management programs. The system aims to provide personalized feedback to increase tracking and weight loss success.

New research identifies potential treatment target in fatty liver disease

A new study has identified an altered expression of specific genes in individuals with obesity, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), and liver fibrosis. The research team found that inhibiting the gene expression can reduce liver fibrosis, offering a potential new treatment option.

A risk factor for liver disease: your parent’s body weight

A recent study from WashU Medicine found a strong correlation between parental obesity and the risk of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in children. Research analyzing data from the UK Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children showed that maternal obesity was associated with a 2.9-fold increase in ...

Pre-pregnancy parental overweight/obesity linked to next generation’s heightened fatty liver disease risk

Research published in the journal Gut found that pre-pregnancy parental overweight and obesity are independently associated with increased odds of developing metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in children by age 24. Cumulative excess weight in childhood significantly influences this risk, with children who...

First-in-human drug trial lowers high blood fats

Scientists developed a compound that targets Liver X Receptor specifically in liver and gut to lower triglycerides. In first-in-human clinical trial, participants showed significant drops in triglycerides and remnant cholesterol after taking the drug.

Maternal microbiome compound may hold key to preventing liver disease

A study from the University of Oklahoma suggests that maternal indole supplementation can significantly reduce the risk of fatty liver disease in children. The research found that offspring whose mothers received indole maintained healthier livers and had lower blood sugar levels, even after exposure to a Western-style diet later in life.

Metabolic BMI reveals disease risk even in people of normal weight

A new study reveals that people with an unexpectedly high metabolic BMI have up to a five times higher risk level for diseases such as diabetes and fatty liver. Metabolic BMI is based on advanced metabolomic analyses and identifies obesity-linked changes in metabolism that can be present even at normal weight.

‘Forever chemicals’ may increase liver disease risk in adolescents by as much as 3-fold

A new study found that higher levels of PFAS in the blood are linked to an increased risk of early onset of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in adolescents. MASLD affects up to 40% of children with obesity and increases long-term risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and liver cancer.

Fathers’ microplastic exposure tied to their children’s metabolic problems

A study led by UC Riverside scientists found that a father's microplastic exposure can trigger metabolic dysfunctions in his offspring, with female offspring being more susceptible. The research used mouse models and found altered sperm small non-coding RNA profiles and increased risk of diabetes in female offspring.

City of Hope scientists study rare disorder to uncover mechanism and hormone regulation underlying fatty liver disease and sweet aversion

A landmark study published in Nature Metabolism reveals how citrin deficiency, a rare genetic disorder, triggers fat buildup in the liver despite being lean. The research also discovers a hormone that reduces cravings for sweets and alcohol, providing new therapeutic targets for MASLD and fatty liver disease.

Healthy Nordic diet good for both type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Researchers found that the healthy Nordic diet was more effective in reducing blood glucose levels and improving body weight, inflammation, and lipid profile compared to other diets. The study also showed that participants lost weight despite being allowed to eat as much as they wanted from recommended foods.

People with diabetes or fatty liver disease are less effective at obtaining energy from ketone bodies

A study found that mitochondria in people with type 2 diabetes and fatty liver disease have impaired ability to utilize ketone bodies for energy production. This defect was greater than the overall decline in mitochondrial function, suggesting a potential new target for improving energy metabolism in diabetes.

Alternative sweetener sorbitol linked to liver disease

Research finds that sorbitol, a common sugar substitute, can induce similar effects on the liver as fructose, leading to steatotic liver disease. The study also shows that gut bacteria play a crucial role in clearing sorbitol, and that excessive consumption can overwhelm them.

Study links America’s favorite cooking oil to obesity

A study conducted at the University of California, Riverside, has uncovered a link between soybean oil consumption and obesity in mice. The research found that a genetically engineered group of mice on a high-fat diet rich in soybean oil did not gain weight, suggesting that the liver protein HNF4α plays a crucial role in fat metabolism.

European Society of Endocrinology leads global call to raise awareness of hormone health on World Hormone Day 2026

The European Society of Endocrinology is launching a new campaign to raise awareness about the importance of hormone health. The #BecauseHormonesMatter initiative aims to improve public understanding of hormones and promote practical steps for better hormone health, following the success of last year's campaign.

USC Superfund researchers identify “forever chemical” PFHpA as risk factor for severe liver disease in adolescents

Researchers identified a significant association between perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA) exposure and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) in adolescents. The study used advanced models to reveal PFHpA's role in disrupting biological pathways, leading to liver damage and inflammation.

Pennington Biomedical awarded renewal of NIH-funded Center to Advance Metabolic Disease Research and train future scientists

The National Institutes of Health has renewed Pennington Biomedical's Metabolic Basis of Disease Center for five years, providing $2.2M per year to support research on the mechanisms of metabolic health. The center aims to address the obesity epidemic and its related illnesses.

Study in mice reveals long-term metabolic risks of ketogenic diet

A study published in Science Advances found that the ketogenic diet can have potentially dangerous impacts on metabolic health, including impaired blood sugar regulation and fatty liver disease. Mice fed the diet developed severe metabolic complications, with some changes starting within days.

New EndoCompass Research Roadmap calls for coordinated investment to tackle Europe’s hormone health challenge

The European Society of Endocrinology has released the EndoCompass Research Roadmap, a major new initiative to align research efforts and improve funding strategies for hormone-related health challenges. The roadmap identifies specific research needs across eight endocrine specialties and five cross-cutting areas.

Safer, more effective vaccines with new mRNA vaccine technology

Researchers have developed a new mRNA vaccine technology using albumin-recruiting lipid nanoparticles to deliver vaccines precisely to lymph nodes, avoiding liver toxicity. The approach outperformed traditional delivery systems in laboratory tests, producing strong antitumor T-cell responses and high levels of neutralizing antibodies.

NUS Medicine researchers develop fat-like nanoparticles to treat fatty liver disease

Researchers developed a novel RNA-based therapy using lipid nanoparticles to silence a gene causing ceramide buildup in the liver, reducing inflammation and scarring. The treatment shows promise for millions of patients worldwide and could eventually benefit those with heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

Simple test can predict risk of severe liver disease

A simple blood analysis can predict the risk of developing severe liver disease, enabling earlier detection and potentially improving treatment outcomes. The CORE model, developed by Karolinska Institutet researchers, is based on three routine blood tests and has been shown to be highly accurate in predicting liver disease risk.

Biomarker discovery for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease utilizing Mendelian randomization, machine learning, and external validation

A study discovered six causal molecular biomarkers (CNPY4, ENTPD6, HLA-A) and eight clinical biomarkers for metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Serum total protein levels partially mediated the effect of HLA-A on MASLD.

The American Heart Association awards research grant to MMRI scientist investigating fatty liver disease

Zhiqiang Lin, Ph.D., receives a $300,000 AHA grant to investigate VGLL4's role in protecting the liver from fatty liver disease. The study aims to slow MASH progression to liver failure, potentially improving quality of life for millions suffering from the illness.

USC study shows how PFAS disrupt healthy function in human liver cells

Researchers found that four common PFAS triggered fat buildup and cancer-related changes, with effects differing by sex. Liver cells from male and female donors responded differently to PFAS exposure.

Finding microproteins to treat obesity and metabolic disorders

Researchers at the Salk Institute have identified dozens of microproteins that play a crucial role in regulating fat cell proliferation and lipid accumulation. This breakthrough discovery offers new potential drug targets for treating obesity and metabolic disorders, building on recent advances in CRISPR gene editing technologies.

Short-term physical activity reduces metabolic-associated steatohepatitis by promoting the degradation of branched-chain amino acids in skeletal muscle

Researchers discovered that short-term physical activity decreases liver disease severity by breaking down branched-chain amino acids in skeletal muscle. This process enhances redox balance and inhibits lipid accumulation in hepatocytes.

Leading cancer and metabolic disease expert Michael Karin joins Sanford Burnham Prebys

Michael Karin, renowned for his work on chronic inflammation and cancer, will lead the Center for Metabolic and Liver Diseases at Sanford Burnham Prebys. He aims to develop new treatments for metabolic and liver diseases, which affect millions of patients worldwide.

Study links residual inflammation in psoriasis patients to obesity and fatty liver disease

Researchers found that residual inflammation in psoriasis patients is linked to obesity, metabolic dysfunction, and increased systemic inflammation. This study suggests that despite good skin response to biologics, patients may still exhibit broader health implications, such as cardiovascular disease and fatty liver disease.

Research shows how hormone can reverse fatty liver disease

Researchers at the University of Oklahoma discovered that FGF21 can reverse fatty liver disease in mice by sending signals to both the brain and liver. The study provides valuable insight into the mechanism of action of FGF21, a target for a new class of highly anticipated drugs.

Menopause at an earlier age increases risk of fatty liver disease and metabolic disorders

Women who experience menopause before age 50 are at higher risk of developing fatty liver disease and its related metabolic risk factors. The study found that early menopause is associated with increased risks of pre-diabetes, obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia.

Fatty liver in pregnancy may increase risk of preterm birth

Pregnant women with fatty liver disease are at an increased risk of giving birth prematurely, with a threefold higher risk compared to the general population. The study also found that women with fatty liver disease had a 63% higher risk of caesarean section.

Risk groups for type 2 diabetes can also be identified at an older age

Researchers identified six risk groups for cardiometabolic complications in older people without type 2 diabetes, with a special high-risk group characterized by inflammation and insulin resistance. The study emphasizes the need for precise early detection and prevention strategies.

MCT4: A novel therapeutic target for NAFLD

Researchers found that MCT4 inhibition up-regulates genes involved in triglyceride and fatty acid synthesis, increasing intracellular lipid accumulation. Overexpression of MCT4 reduces lipid accumulation by down-regulating hepatic lipid metabolism-related genes.

Blood proteins can predict liver disease up to 16 years before symptoms

Researchers identified five blood proteins that can predict liver disease up to 16 years before symptoms. The combined levels of these proteins achieved high accuracy in predicting disease onset and progression, suggesting potential for early diagnosis and treatment.

Interferon regulatory factor 8 drives hepatic steatosis via PPARγ: a potential target for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease treatment

Researchers identified IRF8 as a crucial factor modulating hepatic lipid homeostasis and hepatic steatosis in NAFLD models. The study reveals that targeting the IRF8-BMAL1-PPARγ axis could offer promising therapeutic strategies for treating NAFLD and related metabolic disorders.

Throwing a ‘spanner in the works’ of our cells’ machinery could help fight cancer, fatty liver disease… and hair loss

Researchers have discovered how a mitochondrial pyruvate carrier transports a molecule vital for energy production into the cell's powerhouses. Blocking this process could lead to new treatments for various conditions, including diabetes, Parkinson's disease, and cancer.