Prevention of NAFLD-associated HCC: Role of lifestyle and chemoprevention

ACG Clinical Guideline: Malnutrition and Nutritional Recommendations in Liver Disease

Malnutrition, defined as deficiency, excess, or imbalance of nutrients, is a common complication in patients with liver disease, especially those with cirrhosis. Malnutrition may present as an isolated micronutrient deficiency, such as zinc deficiency, and it commonly presents as frailty and/or sarcopenia in patients with advanced liver disease. Patients with cirrhosis and/or alcohol-associated hepatitis should be assessed for malnutrition because it adversely affects patient outcomes including mortality, as well as waitlist and posttransplant outcomes among liver transplant candidates. The prevalence of malnutrition varies based on the method of assessment and disease severity, being higher in those with advanced liver disease. Among stable outpatients with cirrhosis, counseling should be done to eat small frequent meals, a night-time snack between 7 PM and 10 PM, and 2 or more cups of coffee daily. In selected patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, vitamin E 800 IU/d should be provided. Among hospitalized patients with cirrhosis, nutritional supplementation preferably by enteral route should be implemented in those with poor oral intake of daily requirements of proteins and/or calories. Protein intake should not be restricted including patients with decompensated cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy. A vegetable source of protein seems to be better tolerated than an animal source of protein in patients with hepatic encephalopathy. Branched chain amino acids augment the efficacy of lactulose and rifaximin in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy. Level of evidence and strength of recommendations were evaluated using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations system. This guideline was developed under the auspices of the American College of Gastroenterology Practice Parameters Committee.

Targeting Metabolism: Innovative Therapies for MASLD Unveiled

The recent introduction of the term metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has highlighted the critical role of metabolism in the disease's pathophysiology. This innovative nomenclature signifies a shift from the previous designation of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), emphasizing the condition's progressive nature. Simultaneously, MASLD has become one of the most prevalent liver diseases worldwide, highlighting the urgent need for research to elucidate its etiology and develop effective treatment strategies. This review examines and delineates the revised definition of MASLD, exploring its epidemiology and the pathological changes occurring at various stages of the disease. Additionally, it identifies metabolically relevant targets within MASLD and provides a summary of the latest metabolically targeted drugs under development, including those in clinical and some preclinical stages. The review finishes with a look ahead to the future of targeted therapy for MASLD, with the goal of summarizing and providing fresh ideas and insights.

An umbrella review of the association between dietary factors and hepatocellular carcinoma risk

Background: Several meta-analyses have summarized the associations between dietary factors and the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, no research has comprehensively assessed the certainty of this evidence. Methods: PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched from inception to August 2024. The credibility of the evidence was assessed using the pre-specified evidence classification criteria, graded as convincing ("class I"), highly suggestive ("class II"), suggestive ("class III"), weak ("class IV"), or no evidence ("class V"). To evaluate the quality of evidence, the GRADE framework was applied, categorized as "high", "moderate", "low", or "very low" quality. This study was registered at PROSPERO (CRD42023417373). Results: In total, 22 meta-analyses describing 33 non-dose-response and 10 dose-response associations were included. In the non-dose-response associations, convincing evidence (class I) supported an inverse association between coffee intake [risk ratio (RR) 0.50, 95% confidence interval 0.42 to 0.59, GRADE = very low] and risk for HCC. Suggestive evidence (class III) supported the effect of fish (RR 0.81, 0.73 to 0.90; very low), fiber (RR 0.71, 0.61 to 0.84; low), and the Mediterranean diet (RR 0.67, 0.56 to 0.80; very low) in lowering the risk for HCC. Weak evidence (class IV) suggested the protective effects of ginseng, selenium, cruciferous vegetables, whole grains, and vegetables, against HCC, and the negative effect of saturated fat in increasing the risk for HCC. In the dose-response association, convincing evidence (class I) supported that an additional two cups of coffee per day (RR 0.71, 0.60 to 0.77; moderate) lowered HCC risk, and suggestive evidence (class III) indicated that an increase of 10 g day-1 in fiber intake (RR 0.83, 0.76 to 0.91; moderate) lowered HCC risk. Weak evidence (class IV) suggests positive associations between HCC risk and a 1% daily increase in energy from saturated fat and a 100 mg day-1 increase in cholesterol. Conclusions: Dietary factors, especially coffee, fish, fiber, and the Mediterranean diet, are associated with HCC risk. These findings provide a theoretical basis for developing and evaluating dietary interventions to reduce HCC risk.

Roles of the gut microbiota in hepatocellular carcinoma: from the gut dysbiosis to the intratumoral microbiota

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is closely linked to alterations in the gut microbiota. This dysbiosis is characterized by significant changes in the microbial population, which correlate with the progression of HCC. Gut dysbiosis ultimately promotes HCC development in several ways: it damages the integrity of the gut-vascular barrier (GVB), alters the tumor microenvironment (TME), and even affects the intratumoral microbiota. Subsequently, intratumoral microbiota present a characteristic profile and play an essential role in HCC progression mainly by causing DNA damage, mediating tumor-related signaling pathways, altering the TME, promoting HCC metastasis, or through other mechanisms. Both gut microbiota and intratumoral microbiota have dual effects on HCC progression; a comprehensive understanding of their complex biological roles will provide a theoretical foundation for potential clinical applications in HCC treatment.

EASL Clinical Practice Guidelines on the management of hepatocellular carcinoma

Liver cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounting for approximately 90% of primary liver cancers. Advances in diagnostic and therapeutic tools, along with improved understanding of their application, are transforming patient treatment. Integrating these innovations into clinical practice presents challenges and necessitates guidance. These clinical practice guidelines offer updated advice for managing patients with HCC and provide a comprehensive review of pertinent data. Key updates from the 2018 EASL guidelines include personalised surveillance based on individual risk assessment and the use of new tools, standardisation of liver imaging procedures and diagnostic criteria, use of minimally invasive surgery in complex cases together with updates on the integrated role of liver transplantation, transitions between surgical, locoregional, and systemic therapies, the role of radiation therapies, and the use of combination immunotherapies at various stages of disease. Above all, there is an absolute need for a multiparametric assessment of individual risks and benefits, considering the patient's perspective, by a multidisciplinary team encompassing various specialties.

Management of Chronic Liver Disease in Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Management of cirrhosis sequelae is critical in providing the most options for patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Compensated liver disease is the ideal state for HCC patients who may require resection, locoregional therapies, or liver transplantation. Portal hypertension complications, suboptimal nutrition, and frailty are common barriers to various HCC treatments. For patients with advanced HCC, systemic therapies are altering the approach to multifocal, unresectable HCC, but similar barriers exist related to managing cirrhosis complications. Frequently, managing the underlying liver disease etiology is a key component to enabling HCC treatment.

Exploring the association between air pollution and the incidence of liver cancers

Liver cancer, namely hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), is a major global health concern deeply influenced by environmental factors. Air pollutants emerged as significant contributors to its incidence. This review explores the association between air pollution-specifically particulate matter (PM2.5), industrial chemicals like vinyl chloride, and benzene-and the increased risk of liver cancer. Mechanistically, air pollutants may cause liver damage by inducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and genetic mutations, contributing to cancer development. Epidemiological evidence from cohort and geographic studies highlights a positive correlation between long-term exposure to air pollutants and elevated incidence and mortality of liver cancer. Furthermore, air pollution has been shown to worsen survival outcomes in liver cancer patients, particularly those diagnosed at early stages. The review emphasizes the need for stricter air quality regulations and relevant research for underlying mechanisms exposed to air pollution. Addressing air pollution exposure could be crucial for reducing liver cancer risks and improving public health outcomes.

Liver metabolism in human MASLD: A review of recent advancements using human tissue metabolomics

Global incidence of Metabolic dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD) is on the rise while treatments remain elusive. MASLD is a disease of dysregulated systemic and hepatic metabolism. Current understanding of disease pathophysiology as it relates to metabolome changes largely comes from studies on animal models and human plasma. However, human tissue data are crucial for transitioning from mechanisms to clinical therapies. The close relationship between MASLD and comorbidities like obesity, type 2 diabetes and dyslipidemia make it difficult to determine the contribution from liver disease itself. Here, we review recent metabolomics studies in liver tissue from human MASLD patients, which have predominately focused on lipid metabolism, but also include bile acid, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and branched chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism. Several clinical trials are underway to target various of these lipid-related pathways in MASLD. Although only the β-selective thyroid hormone receptor agonist resmetirom has so far been approved for use, many metabolism-targeting pharmaceuticals show promising results for halting disease progression, if not promoting outright reversal. Ultimately, the scarcity of human tissue data and the variability of confounding factors, like obesity, within and between cohorts are impediments to the pathophysiological understanding required for efficient development of metabolic treatments.

Triglycerides mediate the relationships of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) exposure with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) risk in US participants

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is recognized as a significant public health problem worldwide. Several clinical studies have investigated the associations between Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) compounds with the risk of NAFLD in general adults, but the mediating effect of triglycerides (TG) was remained unexplored. In this study, 6990 individuals from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2003-2018) database were enrolled. Firstly, the results of generalized linear models (GLM) and restricted cubic splines (RCS) revealed positive associations of PFAS compounds with NAFLD risk score and liver function, and nearly linear E-R curves indicated no safe threshold. Meanwhile, weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression demonstrated the relationships between PFAS mixtures with NAFLD risk score and liver function, as well as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) was identified as the main contributor to the increased NAFLD risk. Then, mediation analysis was conducted to explore whether serum lipids mediate the relationships. It further highlighted significant mediation effects of TG, with the mediated proportion ranging from 10.4 % to 42.9 %. Finally, sensitivity and stratified analyses were performed, confirming the reliability of these findings. Notably, significant associations were observed in individuals with a BMI ≥ 28, highlighting that these relationships were particularly evident in obese participants. In conclusion, our study suggested that PFAS mixtures exposure may influence NAFLD risk score by mediating TG in human metabolism. This result could provide more comprehensive epidemiological evidence and guide clinical applications.

Species differences of fatty liver diseases: comparisons between human and feline

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has emerged as the most widespread chronic liver disease that poses significant threats to public health due to changes in dietary habits and lifestyle patterns. The transition from simple steatosis to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) markedly increases the risk of developing cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and liver failure in patients. However, there is only one Food and Drug Administration-approved therapeutic drug in the world, and the clinical demand is huge. There is significant clinical heterogeneity among patients with NAFLD, and it is challenging to fully understand human NAFLD using only a single animal model. Interestingly, felines, like humans, are particularly prone to spontaneous fatty liver disease. This review summarized and compared the etiology, clinical features, pathological characteristics, and molecular pathogenesis between human fatty liver and feline hepatic lipidosis (FHL). We analyzed the key similarities and differences between those two species, aiming to provide theoretical foundations for developing effective strategies for the treatment of NAFLD in clinics.

Statins decrease the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease with a significant risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Recent clinical evidence indicates the potential benefits of statins in cancer chemoprevention and therapeutics. However, it is still unclear if these drugs can lower the specific risk of HCC among patients with MASLD.

AIM

To investigate the impact of statin use on the risk of HCC development in patients with MASLD.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis of all the studies was performed that measured the effect of statin use on HCC occurrence in patients with MASLD. The difference in HCC risk between statin users and non-users was calculated among MASLD patients. We also evaluated the risk difference between lipophilic versus hydrophilic statins and the effect of cumulative dose on HCC risk reduction.

RESULTS

A total of four studies consisting of 291684 patients were included. MASLD patients on statin therapy had a 60% lower pooled risk of developing HCC compared to the non-statin group [relative risk (RR) = 0.40, 95%CI: 0.31-0.53, I 2 = 16.5%]. Patients taking lipophilic statins had a reduced risk of HCC (RR = 0.42, 95%CI: 0.28-0.64), whereas those on hydrophilic statins had not shown the risk reduction (RR = 0.57, 95%CI: 0.27-1.20). The higher (> 600) cumulative defined daily doses (cDDD) had a 70% reduced risk of HCC (RR = 0.30, 95%CI: 0.21-0.43). There was a 29% (RR = 0.71, 95%CI: 0.55-0.91) and 43% (RR = 0.57, 95%CI: 0.40-0.82) decreased risk in patients receiving 300-599 cDDD and 30-299 cDDD, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Statin use lowers the risk of HCC in patients with MASLD. The higher cDDD and lipophilicity of statins correlate with the HCC risk reduction.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and MetALD increases the risk of liver cancer and gastrointestinal cancer: A nationwide cohort study

BACKGROUND

The new nomenclature of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) substituting nonalcoholic fatty liver disease was proposed along with a new category of MASLD with increased alcohol intake (MetALD).

AIMS

We aimed to explore the cancer risk by MASLD and MetALD.

METHODS

This nationwide cohort study included 3,596,709 participants who underwent a health check-up in 2011 in South Korea. Steatotic liver disease (SLD) was defined as a fatty liver index ≥30. Participants were categorized into four exclusive groups: MASLD, MetALD, other combination aetiology and no SLD. The subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR) was calculated using the Fine-Gray model after adjusting other variables.

RESULTS

During the 33.9 million person-years of follow-up, 285,845 participants (7.9%) developed cancers. Compared with no SLD, MASLD, MetALD and other combination aetiology had an increased risk of all cancer. Liver cancer risk escalated from no SLD to MASLD (SHR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.12-1.21), MetALD (SHR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.92-2.20) and other combination aetiology (SHR, 8.16; 95% CI, 7.69-8.67). Gastrointestinal cancers including oesophagus, stomach, colorectal, biliary and pancreas cancers increased in MASLD (SHR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.11-1.15), MetALD (SHR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.14-1.21) and other combination aetiology (SHR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.05-1.13). A modest increase in lung cancer and hormone-sensitive cancer was observed with MASLD.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed that MASLD and MetALD are associated with an increased risk of cancer, particularly liver and gastrointestinal cancers. The findings build new evidence for the clinical outcomes of MetALD while highlighting the importance of managing alcohol intake properly in MASLD and MetALD.

The association between alcohol consumption and cardiometabolic factors and liver fibrosis in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-associated liver disease

BACKGROUND

The relationships between alcohol consumption, cardiometabolic factors, and liver fibrosis in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and those with metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-associated liver disease remain unclear.

AIMS

To investigate the longitudinal associations among alcohol consumption, cardiometabolic factors, and liver fibrosis in patients with these two liver diseases.

METHODS

This observational cohort study included 1866 patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and 521 patients with metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-associated liver disease who underwent > two health checkups over >2 years. The associations of both liver diseases with worsening non-invasive liver fibrosis scores were assessed using the Cox regression analysis.

RESULTS

Both liver diseases independently worsened liver fibrosis in both sexes. However, the hazard ratio for worsening liver fibrosis in females was significantly higher with metabolic dysfunction and alcohol-associated liver disease than with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Worsening liver fibrosis was not associated with alcohol consumption. Among males with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, the hazard ratio for worsening liver fibrosis was significantly higher in those with multiple cardiometabolic factors compared to those with a single cardiometabolic factor.

CONCLUSIONS

Although both metabolic steatotic liver disease and metabolic alcohol-associated liver disease were correlated with liver fibrosis progression in both sexes, the impact of alcohol consumption and cardiometabolic factors on fibrosis progression differed by sex. Cardiometabolic factors may have a stronger impact on liver fibrosis than alcohol consumption in males with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease.

Dronedarone hydrochloride inhibits gastric cancer proliferation in vitro and in vivo by targeting SRC

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer (GC) is a significant global concern, ranking as the fifth most prevalent cancer. Unfortunately, the five-year survival rate is less than 30 %. Additionally, approximately 50 % of patients experience a recurrence or metastasis. As a result, finding new drugs to prevent relapse is of utmost importance.

METHODS

The inhibitory effect of Dronedarone hydrochloride (DH) on gastric cancer cells was examined using proliferation assays and anchorage-dependent assays. The binding of DH with SRC was detected by molecular docking, pull-down assays, and cellular thermal shift assays (CETSA). DH's inhibition of Src kinase activity was confirmed through in vitro kinase assays. The SRC knockout cells, established using the CRISPR-Cas9 system, were used to verify Src's role in GC cell proliferation. Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models were employed to elucidate that DH suppressed tumor growth in vivo.

RESULTS

Our research discovered DH inhibited GC cell proliferation in vitro and in vivo. DH bound to the SRC protein to inhibit the SRC/AKT1 signaling pathway in gastric cancer. Additionally, we observed a decrease in the sensitivity of gastric cancer cells to DH upon down-regulation of SRC. Notably, we demonstrated DH's anti-tumor effects were similar to those of Dasatinib, a well-known SRC inhibitor, in GC patient-derived xenograft models.

CONCLUSION

Our research has revealed that Dronedarone hydrochloride, an FDA-approved drug, is an SRC inhibitor that can suppress the growth of GC cells by blocking the SRC/AKT1 signaling pathway. It provides a scientific basis for use in the clinical treatment of GC.

Modifiable Risk Factors for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients with Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The increasing incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has led to a gradual increase in MASLD-related hepatocellular carcinomas (HCC). In this context, we aimed to investigate the association between modifiable factors and the risk of incident HCC in patients with MASLD.

METHODS

Two authors independently searched electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library) from their inception to April 1, 2023. Observational studies reporting an association between modifiable risk factors and MASLD-related HCC were eligible for inclusion. The effect size on the study outcomes was calculated using a random-effects model and was presented as a risk ratio with 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

A total of 31 studies covering 1.02 million individuals were included. Regarding lifestyle factors, smoking and alcohol consumption were associated with 30% (1.30 [1.08-1.57]) and 140% (2.41 [1.03-5.65]) risk increase of MASLD-related HCC. Regarding metabolic risk factors, patients with MASLD who were overweight or obese (1.31 [1.13-1.52]), had diabetes (2.08 [1.71-2.53]) and hypertension (1.42 [1.12-1.80]) had a higher risk of developing HCC, while dyslipidemia was negatively associated with MASLD-HCC (0.78 [0.65-0.93]). The use of metformin, statin, and aspirin was associated with 18% (0.82 [0.68-0.98]), 55% (0.45 [0.36-0.56]), and 36% (0.64 [0.44-0.92]) risk reduction in incident HCC, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

This comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis showed statistically significant increases in the risk of incident HCC inpatients with MASLD due to smoking, alcohol use, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, whereas metformin, statin, and aspirin therapy might modify disease progression.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and its link to cancer

Metabolic-dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is a growing global health concern with significant implications for oncogenesis. This review synthesizes current evidence on the association between MASLD and cancer risk, highlighting its role as a risk factor for both intrahepatic and extrahepatic malignancies. MASLD is increasingly recognized as a major cause of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), with its incidence rising in parallel with the prevalence of metabolic dysfunction. Furthermore, MASLD is associated with an elevated risk of various gastrointestinal cancers, including colorectal, esophageal, stomach, and pancreatic cancers. Beyond the digestive tract, evidence suggests that MASLD may also contribute to an increased risk of other cancers such as breast, prostate, thyroid, gynecological, renal and lung cancers. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these associations and the impact of MASLD on cancer risk is crucial for developing targeted screening and prevention strategies.

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and extrahepatic gastrointestinal cancers

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) poses a significant and ever-increasing health and economic burden worldwide. Substantial epidemiological evidence shows that MASLD is a multisystem disease that is associated not only with liver-related complications but is also associated with an increased risk of developing cardiometabolic comorbidities and extrahepatic cancers (principally gastrointestinal [GI] cancers). GI cancers account for a quarter of the global cancer incidence and a third of cancer-related deaths. In this narrative review, we provide an overview of the literature on (a) the epidemiological data on the risk of non-liver GI cancers in MASLD, (b) the putative mechanisms by which MASLD (and factors linked with MASLD) may increase this risk, and (c) the possible pharmacotherapies beneficially affecting both MASLD and extrahepatic GI cancer risk. There are multiple potential pathophysiological mechanisms by which MASLD may increase extrahepatic GI cancer risk. Although further studies are needed, the current evidence supports a possible extrahepatic carcinogenic role for MASLD, regardless of obesity and diabetes status, thus highlighting the potential role of tailoring cancer screening for individuals with MASLD. Although there are conflicting data in the literature, aspirin, statins and metformin appear to exert some chemo-preventive effects against GI cancer.

Current challenges and future perspectives in treating patients with NAFLD-related cirrhosis

Despite the slow, progressive nature of NAFLD, the number of patients with NAFLD-related cirrhosis has significantly increased. Although the management of patients with cirrhosis is constantly evolving, improving the prognosis of patients with NAFLD-related cirrhosis is a challenge because it is situated at the crossroads between the liver, the metabolic, and the cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, the therapeutic interventions should not only target the liver but also the associated cardiometabolic conditions and should be adapted accordingly. The objective of the current review is to critically discuss the particularities in the management of patients with NAFLD-related cirrhosis. We relied on the recommendations of scientific societies and discussed them in the specific context of NAFLD cirrhosis and the surrounding cardiometabolic milieu. Herein, we covered the following aspects: (1) the weight loss strategies through lifestyle interventions to avoid sarcopenia and improve portal hypertension; (2) the optimal control of metabolic comorbidities in particular type 2 diabetes aimed not only to improve cardiovascular morbidity/mortality but also to lower the incidence of cirrhosis-related complications (we discussed various aspects related to the safety of oral antidiabetic drugs in cirrhosis); (3) the challenges in performing bariatric surgery in patients with cirrhosis related to the portal hypertension and the risk of cirrhosis decompensation; (4) the particularities in the diagnosis and management of the portal hypertension and the difficulties in managing patients awaiting for liver transplantation; and (5) the difficulties in developing drugs and conducting clinical trials in patients with NAFLD-related cirrhosis. Moreover, we discussed the emerging options to overcome these obstacles.

Navigating the landscape of metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease treatment: aspirin as a potential game changer

Metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease in Western countries, with rapidly increasing prevalence worldwide, estimated at around 40% due to modernization and urbanization. MASLD is defined as hepatic steatosis and identified through histology, imaging, blood markers, and in the absence of other secondary causes of hepatic fat accumulation, such as significant alcohol consumption, use of steatogenic medication, or hereditary disorders. The current management strategies addressing MASLD involve lifestyle modifications and treating coexisting conditions such as obesity, hyperlipidemia, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes. Several studies demonstrate that antiplatelet drugs, including acetylsalicylic acid, have beneficial effects on hepatocytes by decreasing hepatic inflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance and may prevent hepatic fibrosis progression in MASLD. This review article discusses the impact of aspirin on steatosis and triglyceride accumulation in the hepatocytes.

NAFLD-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) - A compelling case for repositioning of existing mTORc1 inhibitors

The increasing prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a growing concern for the high incidence rate of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) globally. The progression of NAFLD to HCC is heterogeneous and non-linear, involving intermediate stages of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver fibrosis, and cirrhosis. There is a high unmet clinical need for appropriate diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic options to tackle this emerging epidemic. Unfortunately, at present, there is no validated marker to identify the risk of developing HCC in patients suffering from NAFLD or NASH. Additionally, the current treatment protocols for HCC don't differentiate between viral infection or NAFLD-specific etiology of the HCC and have a limited success rate. The mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORc1) is an important protein involved in many vital cellular processes like lipid metabolism, glucose homeostasis, and inflammation. These cellular processes are highly implicated in NAFLD and its progression to severe liver manifestations. Additionally, hyperactivation of mTORc1 is known to promote cell proliferation, which can contribute to the genesis and progression of tumors. Many mTORc1 inhibitors are being evaluated for different types of cancers under various phases of clinical trials. This paper deliberates on the strong pathological implication of the mTORc1 signaling pathway in NAFLD and its progression to NASH and HCC and advocates for a systematic investigation of known mTORc1 inhibitors in suitable pre-clinical models of HCC having NAFLD/NASH-specific etiology.

Epidemiology, pathophysiology and clinical aspects of Hepatocellular Carcinoma in MAFLD patients

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is undergoing a transformative shift, with metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) emerging as a dominant etiology. Diagnostic criteria for MAFLD involve hepatic steatosis and metabolic dysregulation. Globally, MAFLD prevalence stands at 38.77%, significantly linked to the escalating rates of obesity. Epidemiological data indicate a dynamic shift in the major etiologies of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), transitioning from viral to metabolic liver diseases. Besides the degree of liver fibrosis, several modifiable lifestyle risk factors, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, alcohol use, smoking, and HBV, HCV infection contribute to the pathogenesis of HCC. Moreover  gut microbiota and genetic variants may contribute to HCC development.The pathophysiological link between MAFLD and HCC involves metabolic dysregulation, impairing glucose and lipid metabolism, inflammation and oxidative stress. Silent presentation poses challenges in early MAFLD-HCC diagnosis. Imaging, biopsy, and AI-assisted techniques aid diagnosis, while HCC surveillance in non-cirrhotic MAFLD patients remains debated.ITA.LI.CA. group proposes a survival-based algorithm for treatment based on Barcelona clinic liver cancer (BCLC) algorithm. Liver resection, transplantation, ablation, and locoregional therapies are applied based on the disease stage. Systemic treatments is promising, with initial immunotherapy results indicating a less favorable response in MAFLD-related HCC.Adopting lifestyle interventions and chemopreventive measures with medications, including aspirin, metformin, and statins, constitute promising approaches for the primary prevention of HCC.Prognosis is influenced by multiple factors, with MAFLD-HCC associated with prolonged survival. Emerging diagnostic biomarkers and epigenomic markers, show promising results for early HCC detection in the MAFLD population.

Letter: Enhancing cirrhosis management-The critical role of social workers in supporting NAFLD surveillance

This article is linked to Tran et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18024 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18265

Impact of alcohol consumption on metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease development and remission: A longitudinal cohort study

BACKGROUND

The influence of alcohol intake on metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) development and remission remains unclear; thus, we aimed to investigate their longitudinal associations.

METHODS

This observational cohort study included 6349 patients who underwent more than two health check-ups over >2 years between April 2013 and March 2021. Generalized estimation equations were used to analyse the longitudinal associations between changes in alcohol intake and MAFLD according to repeated measures at baseline and the most recent stage.

RESULTS

The MAFLD development and remission rates were 20.4 and 5.1 and 9.1 and 4.7% in men and women, respectively. Although alcohol consumption was not a significant factor for MAFLD development, consuming 0.1-69.9 g/week (odds ratio [OR]: 0.672, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.469-0.964, p < .05) and ≥280 g/week were significant factors for MAFLD development in males (OR: 1.796, 95% CI: 1.009-3.196, p < .05) and females (OR: 16.74, 95% CI: 3.877-72.24, p < .001). Regardless of quantity and frequency, alcohol consumption was not a significant factor for MAFLD remission. Several noninvasive liver fibrosis scores were significantly associated with alcohol intake quantity and frequency in males with MAFLD development and remission (p < .05). The nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score differed significantly between males with and without reduced alcohol intake (p < .05) who showed MAFLD remission.

CONCLUSIONS

Although the influence of alcohol intake on MAFLD development and remission differed, alcohol consumption was not beneficial for MAFLD remission in either sex. Alcohol intake reduction or cessation is recommended to prevent liver fibrosis, even in those who achieve MAFLD remission.

Gypenoside L inhibits hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting the SREBP2-HMGCS1 axis and enhancing immune response

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a malignant tumor that occurs in the liver, with a high degree of malignancy and relatively poor prognosis. Gypenoside L has inhibitory effects on liver cancer cells. However, its mechanism of action is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the inhibitory effects of gypenoside L on HCC in vitro and in vivo, and explore its potential mechanisms. The results showed that gypenoside L reduced the cholesterol and triglyceride content in HepG2 and Huh-7 cells, inhibited cell proliferation, invasion and metastasis, arrested cell cycle at G0/G1 phase, promoted cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, it targeted the transcription factor SREPB2 to inhibit the expression of HMGCS1 protein and inhibited the downstream proteins HMGCR and MVK, thereby regulating the mevalonate (MVA) pathway. Overexpression HMGCS1 led to significant alterations in the cholesterol metabolism pathway of HCC, which mediated HCC cell proliferation and conferred resistance to the therapeutic effect of gypenoside L. In vivo, gypenoside L effectively suppressed HCC growth in tumor-bearing mice by reducing cholesterol production, exhibiting favorable safety profiles and minimal toxic side effects. Gypenoside L modulated cholesterol homeostasis, enhanced expression of inflammatory factors by regulating MHC I pathway-related proteins to augment anticancer immune responses. Clinical samples from HCC patients also exhibited high expression levels of MVA pathway-related genes in tumor tissues. These findings highlight gypenoside L as a promising agent for targeting cholesterol metabolism in HCC while emphasizing the effectiveness of regulating the SREBP2-HMGCS1 axis as a therapeutic strategy.

Phenotypes of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease-Associated Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) typically develops as a consequence of liver cirrhosis, but HCC epidemiology has evolved drastically in recent years. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, has emerged as the most common chronic liver disease worldwide and a leading cause of HCC. A substantial proportion of MASLD-associated HCC (MASLD-HCC) also can develop in patients without cirrhosis. The specific pathways that trigger carcinogenesis in this context are not elucidated completely, and recommendations for HCC surveillance in MASLD patients are challenging. In the era of precision medicine, it is critical to understand the processes that define the profiles of patients at increased risk of HCC in the MASLD setting, including cardiometabolic risk factors and the molecular targets that could be tackled effectively. Ideally, defining categories that encompass key pathophysiological features, associated with tailored diagnostic and treatment strategies, should facilitate the identification of specific MASLD-HCC phenotypes. In this review, we discuss MASLD-HCC, including its epidemiology and health care burden, the mechanistic data promoting MASLD, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, and MASLD-HCC. Its natural history, prognosis, and treatment are addressed specifically, as the role of metabolic phenotypes of MASLD-HCC as a potential strategy for risk stratification. The challenges in identifying high-risk patients and screening strategies also are discussed, as well as the potential approaches for MASLD-HCC prevention and treatment.

Self-management in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: influencing factors and impact on readmission

BACKGROUND

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is a common chronic liver disease.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the self-management ability of patients with MASLD, analyse related factors that may affect self-management ability and evaluate the impact of this ability on readmission.

METHODS

The study recruited patients with MASLD admitted to the Department of Infectious Diseases, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, between February and October 2021 using the random sampling method. The MASLD diagnosis was based on the guidelines for the prevention and treatment of MASLD. An analysis of patients' self-management ability was conducted using the self-management ability scale for patients with MASLD. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to analyse the factors influencing this self-management ability, and the readmission rate within 1 year was tracked. The patients were rediagnosed as having MASLD upon readmission to the hospital.

RESULTS

A total of 241 baseline data items and self-management scale scores for patients with MASLD were collected and investigated. In our study, the normal score range for the self-management scale was 31-155 points, and the self-management scale scores for patients with MASLD was 91.24 ± 16.98, with a low level of self-management accounting for 52.7% and a medium level accounting for 44.8%. The results of the multiple linear regression analysis revealed that marital status, smoking history, fatty liver severity and education were the main factors affecting self-management ability (P < 0.05). The readmission rates were 18.25%, 7.48% and 0%, respectively, after 1 year of follow-up; the difference in survival distribution was statistically significant (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The self-management ability of patients with MASLD is relatively low and is primarily influenced by factors such as marital status, smoking history, the severity of fatty liver disease and level of education, which also affect the readmission rate of patients within 1 year.

Health condition and socioeconomic status mediate the causal effect of reproductive traits on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: evidence from Mendelian randomization study

Background

Observational data posits a correlation between reproductive traits and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), but their causal inference is still unclear. This investigation seeks to elucidate the causal influence of reproductive traits on NAFLD and determine the intervening role of health condition and socioeconomic status in these connections.

Methods

Utilizing a Mendelian Randomization (MR) approach, this research leveraged a comprehensive dataset from the Genome-wide Association Study (GWAS) database. The study incorporated body mass index, major depression, educational level, household income and Townsend deprivation index as intermediary variables. Initially, a bidirectional two-sample MR study was conducted to explore the genetic associations between reproductive traits and NAFLD. Then, two-step MR analyses were implemented to quantify the extent of mediation by these indicators. The weighted inverse variance method was the primary analytical approach, complemented by several sensitivity analyses to affirm the robustness of the MR assumptions. Finally, these findings were validated in the FinnGen research.

Results

The bidirectional MR analysis indicated that earlier reproductive traits (age at menarche, age at first sexual intercourse, and age at first birth) were associated with an elevated risk of NAFLD, absent any evidence of the reverse relationship. Body mass index accounted for 35.64% of the association between premature menarche and NAFLD. Additionally, body mass index, major depression, educational level and household income mediated 41.65%, 14.35%, 37.88%, and 18.59% of the connection between early sexual intercourse and NAFLD, respectively. Similarly, these same variables elucidated 36.36%, 15.58%, 41.56%, and 22.73% of the correlation between younger age at first birth and NAFLD.

Conclusion

Our study elucidated the causal relationships between reproductive traits and NAFLD. Potential underlying mechanisms may involve factors such as body mass index, major depression, educational attainment and household income.

Exploring in vitro modeling in hepatocarcinogenesis research: morphological and molecular features and similarities to the corresponding human disease

The hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) features a remarkable epidemiological burden, ranking as the third most lethal cancer worldwide. As the HCC-related molecular and cellular complexity unfolds as the disease progresses, the use of a myriad of in vitro models available is mandatory in translational preclinical research setups. In this review paper, we will compile cutting-edge information on the in vitro bioassays for HCC research, (A) emphasizing their morphological and molecular parallels with human HCC; (B) delineating the advantages and limitations of their application; and (C) offering perspectives on their prospective applications. While bidimensional (2D) (co) culture setups provide a rapid low-cost strategy for metabolism and drug screening investigations, tridimensional (3D) (co) culture bioassays - including patient-derived protocols as organoids and precision cut slices - surpass some of the 2D strategies limitations, mimicking the complex microarchitecture and cellular and non-cellular microenvironment observed in human HCC. 3D models have become invaluable tools to unveil HCC pathophysiology and targeted therapy. In both setups, the recapitulation of HCC in different etiologies/backgrounds (i.e., viral, fibrosis, and fatty liver) may be considered as a fundamental guide for obtaining translational findings. Therefore, a "multimodel" approach - encompassing the advantages of different in vitro bioassays - is encouraged to circumvent "model-biased" outcomes in preclinical HCC research.

Risk of incident type 2 diabetes in male NAFLD and NAFLD-free smokers: a 7-year post-cessation study

BACKGROUND

We aimed to investigate the post-cessation T2DM risk in male NAFLD and NAFLD-free smokers in a 7-year cohort study.

METHODS

The study population was male adults who underwent annual health checkups in a 7-year cohort study. Recent quitters were categorized into four groups based on their weight gain during follow-up: < 0 kg, 0-1.9 kg, 2.0-3.9 kg, and ≥ 4.0 kg. Cox proportional hazard models, adjusted for various variables, were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) for the association between post-cessation weight gain and incident T2DM in NAFLD and NAFLD-free individuals.

RESULTS

At baseline, we included 1,409 NAFLD and 5150 NAFLD-free individuals. During a total of 39,259 person-years of follow-up, 222 (15.8%) NAFLD patients and 621 (12.1%) NAFLD-free participants quit smoking, with the corresponding means (standard deviations) of post-cessation weight gain being 2.24 (3.26) kg and 1.15 (3.51) kg, respectively. Among NAFLD individuals, compared to current smokers, the fully adjusted HRs (95% CI) for incident T2DM were 0.41 (0.06-3.01), 2.39 (1.21-4.70), 4.48 (2.63-7.63), and 6.42 (3.68-11.23) for quitters with weight gains < 0 kg, 0.0-1.9 kg, 2.0-3.9 kg, and ≥ 4.0 kg, respectively. For NAFLD-free individuals, we only observed a significant association between post-cessation weight gain ≥ 4.0 kg and the risk of incident T2DM (P < 0.001). Further analysis revealed that the impact of post-cessation weight gain on T2DM risk was not affected by alcohol consumption or obesity status at baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

Mild post-cessation weight gain significantly increased the risk of T2DM in male NAFLD patients but not in male NAFLD-free individuals. Therefore, it is recommended that individuals with NAFLD manage their weight after quitting smoking.

MASLD-Related Hepatocarcinoma: Special Features and Challenges

Metabolic-associated steatohepatitis liver disease (MASLD) currently impacts a quarter of the global population, and its incidence is expected to increase in the future. As a result, hepatocellular carcinoma associated with MASLD is also on the rise. Notably, this carcinoma does not always develop alongside liver cirrhosis, often leading to a more advanced stage at diagnosis. The challenge lies in accurately identifying patients who are at a higher risk to tailor screening processes effectively. Additionally, several therapeutic approaches are being explored to prevent hepatocellular carcinoma, although there are no universally accepted guidelines yet.

Long-term outcomes following hepatectomy in patients with lean non-alcoholic fatty liver disease-associated hepatocellular carcinoma versus overweight and obese counterparts: A multicenter analysis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

With the rising prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) as a significant etiology for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), lean NAFLD-HCC has emerged as a specific distinct subtype. This study sought to investigate long-term outcomes following curative-intent hepatectomy for early-stage NAFLD-HCC among lean patients compared with overweight and obese individuals.

METHODS

A multicenter retrospective analysis was used to assess early-stage NAFLD-HCC patients undergoing curative-intent hepatectomy between 2009 and 2022. Patients were stratified by preoperative body mass index (BMI) into the lean (<23.0 kg/m2), overweight (23.0-27.4 kg/m2) and obese (≥27.5 kg/m2) groups. Study endpoints were overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS), which were compared among groups.

RESULTS

Among 309 patients with NAFLD-HCC, 66 (21.3 %), 176 (57.0 %), and 67 (21.7 %) were lean, overweight, and obese, respectively. The three groups were similar relative to most liver, tumor, and surgery-related variables. Compared with overweight patients (71.3 % and 55.6 %), the lean individuals had a worse 5-year OS and RFS (55.4 % and 35.1 %, P = 0.017 and 0.002, respectively), which were comparable to obese patients (48.5 % and 38.2 %, P = 0.939 and 0.442, respectively). After adjustment for confounding factors, multivariable Cox-regression analysis identified that lean bodyweight was independently associated with decreased OS (hazard ratio: 1.69; 95 % confidence interval: 1.06-2.71; P = 0.029) and RFS (hazard ratio: 1.72; 95 % confidence interval: 1.17-2.52; P = 0.006) following curative-intent hepatectomy for early-stage NAFLD-HCC.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared with overweight patients, individuals with lean NAFLD-HCC had inferior long-term oncological survival after hepatectomy for early-stage NAFLD-HCC. These data highlight the need for examination of the distinct carcinogenic pathways of lean NAFLD-HCC and its potential consequences in HCC recurrence.

Exposure of benzo[a]pyrene induces HCC exosome-circular RNA to activate lung fibroblasts and trigger organotropic metastasis

BACKGROUND

Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P), a carcinogen pollutant produced by combustion processes, is present in the western diet with grilled meats. Chronic exposure of B[a]P in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells promotes metastasis rather than primary proliferation, implying an unknown mechanism of B[a]P-induced malignancy. Given that exosomes carry bioactive molecules to distant sites, we investigated whether and how exosomes mediate cancer-stroma communications for a toxicologically associated microenvironment.

METHOD

Exosomes were isolated from B[a]P stimulated BEL7404 HCC cells (7404-100Bap Exo) at an environmental relevant dose (100 nmol/L). Lung pre-education animal model was prepared via injection of exosomes and cytokines. The inflammatory genes of educated lungs were evaluated using quantitative reverse transcription PCR array. HCC LM3 cells transfected with firefly luciferase were next injected to monitor tumor burdens and organotropic metastasis. Profile of B[a]P-exposed exosomes were determined by ceRNA microarray. Interactions between circular RNA (circRNA) and microRNAs (miRNAs) were detected using RNA pull-down in target lung fibroblasts. Fluorescence in situ hybridization and RNA immunoprecipitation assay was used to evaluate the "on-off" interaction of circRNA-miRNA pairs. We further developed an adeno-associated virus inhalation model to examine mRNA expression specific in lung, thereby exploring the mRNA targets of B[a]P induced circRNA-miRNA cascade.

RESULTS

Lung fibroblasts exert activation phenotypes, including focal adhesion and motility were altered by 7404-100Bap Exo. In the exosome-educated in vivo model, fibrosis factors and pro-inflammatory molecules of are up-regulated when injected with exosomes. Compared to non-exposed 7404 cells, circ_0011496 was up-regulated following B[a]P treatment and was mainly packaged into 7404-100Bap Exo. Exosomal circ_0011496 were delivered and competitively bound to miR-486-5p in recipient fibroblasts. The down-regulation of miR-486-5p converted fibroblast to cancer-associated fibroblast via regulating the downstream of Twinfilin-1 (TWF1) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) cascade. Additionally, increased TWF1, specifically in exosomal circ_0011496 educated lungs, could promote cancer-stroma crosstalk via activating vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). These modulated fibroblasts promoted endothelial cells angiogenesis and recruited primary HCC cells invasion, as a consequence of a pre-metastatic niche formation.

CONCLUSION

We demonstrated that B[a]P-induced tumor exosomes can deliver circ_0011496 to activate miR-486-5p/TWF1/MMP9 cascade in the lung fibroblasts, generating a feedback loop that promoted HCC metastasis.

The deep abdominal ultrasound transducer (DAX) increases the success rate and diagnostic accuracy of shear wave elastography for liver fibrosis assessment in patients with obesity-A prospective biopsy-controlled study

BACKGROUND

Obesity impacts the diagnostic accuracy of shear wave elastography (SWE). A deep abdominal ultrasound transducer (DAX) capable of point (pSWE) and two-dimensional (2D)-SWE has recently been introduced to address this issue.

METHODS

We performed a prospective study in a cohort of mostly patients with obesity undergoing liver biopsy with a high prevalence of metabolic dysfunction-associate steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) was measured using vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE), as well as pSWE and 2D SWE on the standard (5C1) and the DAX transducers.

RESULTS

We included 129 patients with paired LSM and liver biopsy: median age 44.0 years, 82 (63.6%) women, median BMI: 43.2 kg/m2. Histologic fibrosis stages: F0: N = 55 (42.6%), F1: N = 14 (10.9%), F2: N = 50 (38.8%), F3: N = 2 (1.6%), F4: N = 8 (6.2%). VCTE-LSM failed (N = 13) or were unreliable (IQR/median ≤30% in ≥7.1 kPa, N = 14) in 20.9% of patients. The Pearson correlation of reliable VCTE-LSM with both pSWE and 2D SWE was strong (all >0.78). The diagnostic accuracy for all LSM techniques was poor for significant fibrosis (≥F2, AUC: 0.54-0.63); however, it was good to excellent for advanced fibrosis (≥F3, AUC: 0.87-0.99) and cirrhosis (F4, AUC: 0.86-1.00). In intention-to-diagnose analysis, pSWE on DAX was significantly superior to VCTE-LSM.

CONCLUSIONS

pSWE- and 2D-SWE enable the non-invasive identification of advanced fibrosis and cirrhosis in patients with obese MASLD. The use of the DAX transducer for acoustic radiation force imaging (ARFI)-LSM avoids technical failures in an obese population and subsequently offers advantages over VCTE-LSM for the evaluation of fibrosis in an obese MASLD population at risk for fibrosis.

Aspirin suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma progression by inhibiting platelet activity

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common malignant liver disease in the world. Platelets (PLTs) are known to play a key role in the maintenance of liver homeostasis and the pathophysiological processes of a variety of liver diseases. Aspirin is the most classic antiplatelet agent. However, the molecular mechanism of platelet action and whether aspirin can affect HCC progression by inhibiting platelet activity need further study.

AIM

To explore the impact of the antiplatelet effect of aspirin on the development of HCC.

METHODS

Platelet-rich plasma, platelet plasma, pure platelet, and platelet lysate were prepared, and a coculture model of PLTs and HCC cells was established. CCK-8 analysis, apoptosis analysis, Transwell analysis, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were used to analyze the effects of PLTs on the growth, metastasis, and inflammatory microenvironment of HCC. RT-PCR and Western blot were used to detect the effects of platelet activation on tumor-related signaling pathways. Aspirin was used to block the activation and aggregation of PLTs both in vitro and in vivo, and the effect of PLTs on the progression of HCC was detected.

RESULTS

PLTs significantly promoted the growth, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and formation of an inflammatory microenvironment in HCC cells. Activated PLTs promoted HCC progression by activating the mitogen-activated protein kinase/protein kinase B/signal transducer and activator of transcription three (MAPK/ AKT/STAT3) signaling axis. Additionally, aspirin inhibited HCC progression in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting platelet activation.

CONCLUSION

PLTs play an important role in the pathogenesis of HCC, and aspirin can affect HCC progression by inhibiting platelet activity. These results suggest that antiplatelet therapy has promising application prospects in the treatment and combined treatment of HCC.

Aspirin suppresses hepatocellular carcinoma progression by inhibiting platelet activity

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common malignant liver disease in the world. Platelets (PLTs) are known to play a key role in the maintenance of liver homeostasis and the pathophysiological processes of a variety of liver diseases. Aspirin is the most classic antiplatelet agent. However, the molecular mechanism of platelet action and whether aspirin can affect HCC progression by inhibiting platelet activity need further study.

AIM

To explore the impact of the antiplatelet effect of aspirin on the development of HCC.

METHODS

Platelet-rich plasma, platelet plasma, pure platelet, and platelet lysate were prepared, and a coculture model of PLTs and HCC cells was established. CCK-8 analysis, apoptosis analysis, Transwell analysis, and real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) were used to analyze the effects of PLTs on the growth, metastasis, and inflammatory microenvironment of HCC. RT-PCR and Western blot were used to detect the effects of platelet activation on tumor-related signaling pathways. Aspirin was used to block the activation and aggregation of PLTs both in vitro and in vivo, and the effect of PLTs on the progression of HCC was detected.

RESULTS

PLTs significantly promoted the growth, invasion, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and formation of an inflammatory microenvironment in HCC cells. Activated PLTs promoted HCC progression by activating the mitogen-activated protein kinase/protein kinase B/signal transducer and activator of transcription three (MAPK/ AKT/STAT3) signaling axis. Additionally, aspirin inhibited HCC progression in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting platelet activation.

CONCLUSION

PLTs play an important role in the pathogenesis of HCC, and aspirin can affect HCC progression by inhibiting platelet activity. These results suggest that antiplatelet therapy has promising application prospects in the treatment and combined treatment of HCC.

Circulating fatty acids and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma and chronic liver disease mortality in the UK Biobank

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based plasma fatty acids are objective biomarkers of many diseases. Herein, we aim to explore the associations of NMR-based plasma fatty acids with the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and chronic liver disease (CLD) mortality in 252,398 UK Biobank participants. Here we show plasma levels of n-3 poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and n-6 PUFA are negatively associated with the risk of incident HCC [HRQ4vsQ1: 0.48 (95% CI: 0.33-0.69) and 0.48 (95% CI: 0.28-0.81), respectively] and CLD mortality [HRQ4vsQ1: 0.21 (95% CI: 0.13-0.33) and 0.15 (95% CI: 0.08-0.30), respectively], whereas plasma levels of saturated fatty acids are positively associated with these outcomes [HRQ4vsQ1: 3.55 (95% CI: 2.25-5.61) for HCC and 6.34 (95% CI: 3.68-10.92) for CLD mortality]. Furthermore, fibrosis stage significantly modifies the associations between PUFA and CLD mortality. This study contributes to the limited prospective evidence on the associations between plasma-specific fatty acids and end-stage liver outcomes.

Caffeine in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Cellular Assays, Animal Experiments, and Epidemiological Investigation

The use of caffeine in treating various liver diseases has made substantial progress in the past decade owing to advances in science, technology, and medicine. However, whether caffeine has a preventive effect on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and its mechanism are still worth further investigation. In this review, we summarize and analyze the efficacy and safety of caffeine in the prevention of HCC. We conducted a review of articles published in PubMed and Web of Science in the past 2 decades until December 6, 2023, which were searched for using the terms "Caffeine" and "Hepatocellular Carcinoma." Studies have found that coffee intake is negatively correlated with HCC risk, especially caffeinated coffee. Recent studies have found that caffeine has beneficial effects on liver health, decreasing levels of enzymes responsible for liver damaging and slowing the progression of hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis. Caffeine also acts against liver fibrosis through adenosine receptors (ARs), which promote tissue remodeling by inducing fibrin and collagen production. Additionally, new studies have found that moderate consumption of caffeinated beverages can decrease various the levels of various collagens in patients with chronic hepatitis C. Furthermore, polyphenolic compounds in coffee can improve fat homeostasis, reduce oxidative stress, and prevent liver steatosis and fibrosis. Moreover, many in vitro studies have shown that caffeine can protect liver cells and inhibit the activation and proliferation of hepatic stellate cells. Taken together, we describe the benefits of caffeine for liver health and highlight its potential values as a drug to prevent various hepatic diseases. As a protective agent of liver inflammation, non-selective AR inhibitor caffeine can inhibit the growth of HCC cells by inhibiting adenosine and AR binding to initiate immune response, providing a basis for the future development of caffeine as an adjuvant drug against HCC.

The Influence of Diet and Its Components on the Development and Prevention of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is diagnosed annually in nearly a million people worldwide, with approximately half of them being diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease. Non-infectious risk factors for the development of HCC include an unbalanced lifestyle, including poor dietary choices characterized by a low intake of antioxidants, such as vitamins E and C, selenium, and polyphenols, as well as an excessive consumption of energy and harmful substances. Repeated bad dietary choices that contribute to an unbalanced lifestyle lead to the accumulation of fatty substances in the liver and to it entering an inflammatory state, which, without intervention, results in cirrhosis, the main cause of HCC. This review of the English language literature aims to present the food components that, when included in the daily diet, reduce the risk of developing HCC, as well as identifying foods that may have a carcinogenic effect on liver cells.

Endotoxemia and Platelets: 2 Players of Intrahepatic Microthrombosis in NAFLD

Gut dysbiosis-related intestinal barrier dysfunction with increased translocation of bacterial products such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) into systemic circulation is emerging as pathogenic factor of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Experimental and clinical studies suggested a potential role of LPS as a trigger eliciting in situ liver inflammation upon interaction with its receptor toll-like receptor 4. Also, LPS has been reported to prime platelets to respond to the common agonists indicating that it behaves as a prothrombotic molecule. Of note, recent studies suggested platelet-related intrahepatic thrombosis triggered by LPS as a mechanism implicated in the process of liver inflammation. This review describes: 1) the impact of gut barrier dysfunction and endotoxemia in the process of NAFLD; 2) the relationship between endotoxemia and platelet activation in NAFLD; 3) clinical evidence for the use of antiplatelet drugs in NAFLD/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis patients; and 4) the potential therapeutic approach to modulate endotoxemia and eventually platelet activation.

Recent advances in age-related metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) affects approximately 25% of the world's population and has become a leading cause of chronic liver disease. In recent years, an increasing amount of data suggests that MASLD is associated with aging. As the population ages, age-related MASLD will become a major global health problem. Targeting an aging will become a new approach to the treatment of MASLD. This paper reviews the current studies on the role of aging-related factors and therapeutic targets in MASLD, including: Oxidative stress, autophagy, mitochondrial homeostasis, bile acid metabolism homeostasis, and dysbiosis. The aim is to identify effective therapeutic targets for age-related MASLD and its progression.

Coffee, adenosine, and the liver

A variety of observational studies have demonstrated that coffee, likely acting through caffeine, improves health outcomes in patients with chronic liver disease. The primary pharmacologic role of caffeine is to act as an inhibitor of adenosine receptors. Because key liver cells express adenosine receptors linked to liver injury, regeneration, and fibrosis, it is plausible that the biological effects of coffee are explained by effects of caffeine on adenosinergic signaling in the liver. This review is designed to help the reader make sense of that hypothesis, highlighting key observations in the literature that support or dispute it.

Statin therapy: a potential adjuvant to immunotherapies in hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide and accounts for more than 90% of primary liver cancer. The advent of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI)-related therapies combined with angiogenesis inhibition has revolutionized the treatment of HCC in late-stage and unresectable HCC, as ICIs alone were disappointing in treating HCC. In addition to the altered immune microenvironment, abnormal lipid metabolism in the liver has been extensively characterized in various types of HCC. Stains are known for their cholesterol-lowering properties and their long history of treating hypercholesterolemia and reducing cardiovascular disease risk. Apart from ICI and other conventional therapies, statins are frequently used by advanced HCC patients with dyslipidemia, which is often marked by the abnormal accumulation of cholesterol and fatty acids in the liver. Supported by a body of preclinical and clinical studies, statins may unexpectedly enhance the efficacy of ICI therapy in HCC patients through the regulation of inflammatory responses and the immune microenvironment. This review discusses the abnormal changes in lipid metabolism in HCC, summarizes the clinical evidence and benefits of stain use in HCC, and prospects the possible mechanistic actions of statins in transforming the immune microenvironment in HCC when combined with immunotherapies. Consequently, the use of statin therapy may emerge as a novel and valuable adjuvant for immunotherapies in HCC.

A Machine Learning Model to Predict Risk for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Patients With Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

Background and Aims

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) incidence is increasing and correlated with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD; formerly nonalcoholic fatty liver disease), even in patients without advanced liver fibrosis who are more likely to be diagnosed with advanced disease stages and shorter survival time, and less likely to receive a liver transplant. Machine learning (ML) tools can characterize large datasets and help develop predictive models that can calculate individual HCC risk and guide selective screening and risk mitigation strategies.

Methods

Tableau and KNIME Analytics were used for descriptive analytics and ML tasks. ML models were developed using standard laboratory and clinical parameters. Sci-kit learn algorithms were used for model development. Data from University of California (UC), Davis, were used to develop and train a pilot predictive model, which was subsequently validated in an independent dataset from UC San Francisco. MASLD and HCC patients were identified by International Classification of Diseases-9/10 codes.

Results

Of the patients diagnosed with MASLD (n = 1561 training; n = 686 validation), HCC developed in 14% (n = 227) of the UC Davis training cohort and 25% (n = 176) of the UC San Francisco validation cohort. Liver fibrosis determined by the noninvasive Fibrosis-4 score was the strongest single predictor for HCC in the model. Using the validation cohort, the model predicted HCC development at 92.06% accuracy with an area under the curve of 0.97, F1-score of 0.84, 98.34% specificity, and 74.41% sensitivity.

Conclusion

ML models can aid physicians in providing early HCC risk assessment in patients with MASLD. Further validation will translate to cost-effective, personalized care of at-risk patients.

Global trends in hepatocellular carcinoma epidemiology: implications for screening, prevention and therapy

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mortality rates are increasing globally, and particularly in the Western world. Cirrhosis remains the predominant risk factor for HCC. However, epidemiological shifts in the incidence of HCC from patients with virus-related liver disease to those with non-viral aetiologies, including alcohol-associated and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, have important implications for prevention, surveillance and treatment. Hepatitis B vaccination and antiviral therapy for hepatitis B and C are effective for primary prevention of virus-related HCCs, but chemoprevention strategies for non-viral liver disease remain an unmet need. Emerging data suggest associations between aspirin, statins, metformin and coffee and reduced HCC incidence, although none has been proved to be causally related. Secondary prevention of HCC via semi-annual surveillance is associated with improvements in early detection and thus reduced mortality; however, current tools, including abdominal ultrasonography, have suboptimal sensitivity for the detection of early stage HCC, particularly in patients with obesity and/or non-viral liver disease. Promising blood-based or imaging-based surveillance strategies are emerging, although these approaches require further validation before adoption in clinical practice. In the interim, efforts should be focused on maximizing use of the existing surveillance tools given their prevalent underuse globally. Remarkable advances have been made in the treatment of HCC, including expanded eligibility for surgical therapies, improved patient selection for locoregional treatments and increased systemic treatment options, including immune-checkpoint inhibitors. In this Review, we discuss trends in the epidemiology of HCC and their implications for screening, prevention and therapy.