1
|
Kokkorakis M, Muzurović E, Volčanšek Š, Chakhtoura M, Hill MA, Mikhailidis DP, Mantzoros CS. Steatotic Liver Disease: Pathophysiology and Emerging Pharmacotherapies. Pharmacol Rev 2024; 76:454-499. [PMID: 38697855 DOI: 10.1124/pharmrev.123.001087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Steatotic liver disease (SLD) displays a dynamic and complex disease phenotype. Consequently, the metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)/metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) therapeutic pipeline is expanding rapidly and in multiple directions. In parallel, noninvasive tools for diagnosing and monitoring responses to therapeutic interventions are being studied, and clinically feasible findings are being explored as primary outcomes in interventional trials. The realization that distinct subgroups exist under the umbrella of SLD should guide more precise and personalized treatment recommendations and facilitate advancements in pharmacotherapeutics. This review summarizes recent updates of pathophysiology-based nomenclature and outlines both effective pharmacotherapeutics and those in the pipeline for MASLD/MASH, detailing their mode of action and the current status of phase 2 and 3 clinical trials. Of the extensive arsenal of pharmacotherapeutics in the MASLD/MASH pipeline, several have been rejected, whereas other, mainly monotherapy options, have shown only marginal benefits and are now being tested as part of combination therapies, yet others are still in development as monotherapies. Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved resmetirom, additional therapeutic approaches in development will ideally target MASH and fibrosis while improving cardiometabolic risk factors. Due to the urgent need for the development of novel therapeutic strategies and the potential availability of safety and tolerability data, repurposing existing and approved drugs is an appealing option. Finally, it is essential to highlight that SLD and, by extension, MASLD should be recognized and approached as a systemic disease affecting multiple organs, with the vigorous implementation of interdisciplinary and coordinated action plans. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Steatotic liver disease (SLD), including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, is the most prevalent chronic liver condition, affecting more than one-fourth of the global population. This review aims to provide the most recent information regarding SLD pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management according to the latest advancements in the guidelines and clinical trials. Collectively, it is hoped that the information provided furthers the understanding of the current state of SLD with direct clinical implications and stimulates research initiatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michail Kokkorakis
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (M.K., C.S.M.); Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands (M.K.); Endocrinology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Center of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Medical Faculty Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon (M.C.); Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Hospital Campus, University College London Medical School, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom (D.P.M.); Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (D.P.M.); and Boston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (C.S.M.)
| | - Emir Muzurović
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (M.K., C.S.M.); Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands (M.K.); Endocrinology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Center of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Medical Faculty Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon (M.C.); Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Hospital Campus, University College London Medical School, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom (D.P.M.); Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (D.P.M.); and Boston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (C.S.M.)
| | - Špela Volčanšek
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (M.K., C.S.M.); Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands (M.K.); Endocrinology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Center of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Medical Faculty Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon (M.C.); Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Hospital Campus, University College London Medical School, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom (D.P.M.); Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (D.P.M.); and Boston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (C.S.M.)
| | - Marlene Chakhtoura
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (M.K., C.S.M.); Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands (M.K.); Endocrinology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Center of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Medical Faculty Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon (M.C.); Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Hospital Campus, University College London Medical School, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom (D.P.M.); Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (D.P.M.); and Boston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (C.S.M.)
| | - Michael A Hill
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (M.K., C.S.M.); Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands (M.K.); Endocrinology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Center of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Medical Faculty Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon (M.C.); Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Hospital Campus, University College London Medical School, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom (D.P.M.); Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (D.P.M.); and Boston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (C.S.M.)
| | - Dimitri P Mikhailidis
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (M.K., C.S.M.); Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands (M.K.); Endocrinology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Center of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Medical Faculty Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon (M.C.); Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Hospital Campus, University College London Medical School, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom (D.P.M.); Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (D.P.M.); and Boston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (C.S.M.)
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (M.K., C.S.M.); Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands (M.K.); Endocrinology Section, Department of Internal Medicine, Clinical Center of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Faculty of Medicine, University of Montenegro, Podgorica, Montenegro (E.M.); Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Medical Faculty Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia (Š.V.); Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon (M.C.); Dalton Cardiovascular Research Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Medical Pharmacology and Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri (M.A.H.); Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Royal Free Hospital Campus, University College London Medical School, University College London (UCL), London, United Kingdom (D.P.M.); Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (D.P.M.); and Boston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts (C.S.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Eeda V, Patil NY, Joshi AD, Awasthi V. Advancements in metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease research: Diagnostics, small molecule developments, and future directions. Hepatol Res 2024; 54:222-234. [PMID: 38149861 PMCID: PMC10923026 DOI: 10.1111/hepr.14008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic (dysfunction)-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, is a growing global health concern with no approved pharmacological treatments. At the same time, there are no standard methods to definitively screen for the presence of MASLD because of its progressive nature and symptomatic commonality with other disorders. Recent advances in molecular understanding of MASLD pathophysiology have intensified research on development of new drug molecules, repurposing of existing drugs approved for other indications, and an educated use of dietary supplements for its treatment and prophylaxis. This review focused on depicting the latest advancements in MASLD research related to small molecule development for prophylaxis or treatment and diagnosis, with emphasis on mechanistic basis at the molecular level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Venkateswararao Eeda
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Nikhil Yuvaraj Patil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Aditya Dilip Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Vibhudutta Awasthi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Besci O, Foss de Freitas MC, Guidorizzi NR, Guler MC, Gilio D, Maung JN, Schill RL, Hoose KS, Obua BN, Gomes AD, Yıldırım Şimşir I, Demir K, Akinci B, MacDougald OA, Oral EA. Deciphering the Clinical Presentations in LMNA-related Lipodystrophy: Report of 115 Cases and a Systematic Review. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:e1204-e1224. [PMID: 37843397 PMCID: PMC10876415 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Lipodystrophy syndromes are a heterogeneous group of rare genetic or acquired disorders characterized by generalized or partial loss of adipose tissue. LMNA-related lipodystrophy syndromes are classified based on the severity and distribution of adipose tissue loss. OBJECTIVE We aimed to annotate all clinical and metabolic features of patients with lipodystrophy syndromes carrying pathogenic LMNA variants and assess potential genotype-phenotype relationships. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed and analyzed all our cases (n = 115) and all published cases (n = 379) curated from 94 studies in the literature. RESULTS The study included 494 patients. The most common variants in our study, R482Q and R482W, were associated with similar metabolic characteristics and complications though those with the R482W variant were younger (aged 33 [24] years vs 44 [25] years; P < .001), had an earlier diabetes diagnosis (aged 27 [18] vs 40 [17] years; P < .001) and had lower body mass index levels (24 [5] vs 25 [4]; P = .037). Dyslipidemia was the earliest biochemical evidence described in 83% of all patients at a median age of 26 (10) years, while diabetes was reported in 61% of cases. Among 39 patients with an episode of acute pancreatitis, the median age at acute pancreatitis diagnosis was 20 (17) years. Patients who were reported to have diabetes had 3.2 times, while those with hypertriglyceridemia had 12.0 times, the odds of having pancreatitis compared to those who did not. CONCLUSION This study reports the largest number of patients with LMNA-related lipodystrophy syndromes to date. Our report helps to quantify the prevalence of the known and rare complications associated with different phenotypes and serves as a comprehensive catalog of all known cases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ozge Besci
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35340, Turkey
| | | | | | - Merve Celik Guler
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Division of Internal Medicine, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35340, Turkey
| | - Donatella Gilio
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Clinical and Translational Sciences, University of Pisa, Pisa 56126, Italy
| | - Jessica N Maung
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Rebecca L Schill
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Keegan S Hoose
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Bonje N Obua
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Anabela D Gomes
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Ilgın Yıldırım Şimşir
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Ege University, Izmir 35100, Turkey
| | - Korcan Demir
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Dokuz Eylul University, Izmir 35340, Turkey
| | - Baris Akinci
- DEPARK, Dokuz Eylul University & Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir, Turkey
- Izmir Biomedicine and Genome Center, Izmir 35340, Turkey
| | - Ormond A MacDougald
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Department of Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA
| | - Elif A Oral
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology & Diabetes, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Tschöp MH, Friedman JM. Seeking satiety: From signals to solutions. Sci Transl Med 2023; 15:eadh4453. [PMID: 37992155 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adh4453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Remedies for the treatment of obesity date to Hippocrates, when patients with obesity were directed to "reduce food and avoid drinking to fullness" and begin "running during the night." Similar recommendations have been repeated ever since, despite the fact that they are largely ineffective. Recently, highly effective therapeutics were developed that may soon enable physicians to manage body weight in patients with obesity in a manner similar to the way that blood pressure is controlled in patients with hypertension. These medicines have grown out of a revolution in our understanding of the molecular and neural control of appetite and body weight, reviewed here.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthias H Tschöp
- Helmholtz Munich and Technical University Munich, Munich, 85758 Germany
| | - Jeffrey M Friedman
- Laboratory of Molecular Genetics, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065 USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhang C, Sui Y, Liu S, Yang M. Molecular mechanisms of metabolic disease-associated hepatic inflammation in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. EXPLORATION OF DIGESTIVE DISEASES 2023:246-275. [DOI: https:/doi.org/10.37349/edd.2023.00029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/27/2023]
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the leading chronic liver disease worldwide, with a progressive form of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). It may progress to advanced liver diseases, including liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. NAFLD/NASH is a comorbidity of many metabolic disorders such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease. These metabolic diseases are often accompanied by systemic or extrahepatic inflammation, which plays an important role in the pathogenesis and treatment of NAFLD or NASH. Metabolites, such as short-chain fatty acids, impact the function, inflammation, and death of hepatocytes, the primary parenchymal cells in the liver tissue. Cholangiocytes, the epithelial cells that line the bile ducts, can differentiate into proliferative hepatocytes in chronic liver injury. In addition, hepatic non-parenchymal cells, including liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, hepatic stellate cells, and innate and adaptive immune cells, are involved in liver inflammation. Proteins such as fibroblast growth factors, acetyl-coenzyme A carboxylases, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 are involved in liver metabolism and inflammation, which are potential targets for NASH treatment. This review focuses on the effects of metabolic disease-induced extrahepatic inflammation, liver inflammation, and the cellular and molecular mechanisms of liver metabolism on the development and progression of NAFLD and NASH, as well as the associated treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunye Zhang
- Christopher S. Bond Life Sciences Center, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Yuxiang Sui
- School of Life Science, Shanxi Normal University, Linfen 041004, Shanxi Province, China
| | - Shuai Liu
- The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ming Yang
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Carbonaro M, Wang K, Huang H, Frleta D, Patel A, Pennington A, Desclaux M, Moller-Tank S, Grindley J, Altarejos J, Zhong J, Polites G, Poueymirou W, Jaspers S, Kyratsous C, Zambrowicz B, Murphy A, Lin JC, Macdonald LE, Daly C, Sleeman M, Thurston G, Li Z. IL-6-GP130 signaling protects human hepatocytes against lipid droplet accumulation in humanized liver models. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadf4490. [PMID: 37058568 PMCID: PMC10104468 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adf4490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Liver steatosis is an increasing health issue with few therapeutic options, partly because of a paucity of experimental models. In humanized liver rodent models, abnormal lipid accumulation in transplanted human hepatocytes occurs spontaneously. Here, we demonstrate that this abnormality is associated with compromised interleukin-6 (IL-6)-glycoprotein 130 (GP130) signaling in human hepatocytes because of incompatibility between host rodent IL-6 and human IL-6 receptor (IL-6R) on donor hepatocytes. Restoration of hepatic IL-6-GP130 signaling, through ectopic expression of rodent IL-6R, constitutive activation of GP130 in human hepatocytes, or humanization of an Il6 allele in recipient mice, substantially reduced hepatosteatosis. Notably, providing human Kupffer cells via hematopoietic stem cell engraftment in humanized liver mice also corrected the abnormality. Our observations suggest an important role of IL-6-GP130 pathway in regulating lipid accumulation in hepatocytes and not only provide a method to improve humanized liver models but also suggest therapeutic potential for manipulating GP130 signaling in human liver steatosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kehui Wang
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | - Hui Huang
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | - Davor Frleta
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | - Aditi Patel
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jun Zhong
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | - Greg Polites
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - John C. Lin
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | | | - Mark Sleeman
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY, USA
| | | | - Zhe Li
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals Inc., Tarrytown, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pal SC, Eslam M, Mendez-Sanchez N. Detangling the interrelations between MAFLD, insulin resistance, and key hormones. Hormones (Athens) 2022; 21:573-589. [PMID: 35921046 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-022-00391-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has increasingly become a significant and highly prevalent cause of chronic liver disease, displaying a wide array of risk factors and pathophysiologic mechanisms of which only a few have so far been clearly elucidated. A bidirectional interaction between hormonal discrepancies and metabolic-related disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) has been described. Since the change in nomenclature from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) to MAFLD is based on the clear impact of metabolic elements on the disease, the reciprocal interactions of hormones such as insulin, adipokines (leptin and adiponectin), and estrogens have strongly pointed to the intrinsic links that lead to the heterogeneous epidemiology, clinical presentations, and risk factors involved in MAFLD in different populations. The objective of this work is twofold. Firstly, there is a brief discussion regarding the change in nomenclature as well as epidemiology, risk factors, and pathophysiologic mechanisms other than hormonal effects, which include nutrition and the gut microbiome, as well as genetic and epigenetic influences. Secondly, we review the basis of the most important hormonal factors involved in the development and progression of MAFLD that act both independently and in an interrelated manner.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shreya C Pal
- Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Av. Universidad 3000, Coyoacán, 4510, Mexico City, Mexico
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Puente de Piedra 150. Col. Toriello Guerra, 14050, Tlalpan, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mohammed Eslam
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Nahum Mendez-Sanchez
- Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Av. Universidad 3000, Coyoacán, 4510, Mexico City, Mexico.
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Puente de Piedra 150. Col. Toriello Guerra, 14050, Tlalpan, Mexico City, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Metz M, Beghini M, Wolf P, Pfleger L, Hackl M, Bastian M, Freudenthaler A, Harreiter J, Zeyda M, Baumgartner-Parzer S, Marculescu R, Marella N, Hannich JT, Györi G, Berlakovich G, Roden M, Krebs M, Risti R, Lõokene A, Trauner M, Kautzky-Willer A, Krššák M, Stangl H, Fürnsinn C, Scherer T. Leptin increases hepatic triglyceride export via a vagal mechanism in humans. Cell Metab 2022; 34:1719-1731.e5. [PMID: 36220067 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmet.2022.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Recombinant human leptin (metreleptin) reduces hepatic lipid content in patients with lipodystrophy and overweight patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and relative hypoleptinemia independent of its anorexic action. In rodents, leptin signaling in the brain increases very-low-density lipoprotein triglyceride (VLDL-TG) secretion and reduces hepatic lipid content via the vagus nerve. In this randomized, placebo-controlled crossover trial (EudraCT Nr. 2017-003014-22), we tested whether a comparable mechanism regulates hepatic lipid metabolism in humans. A single metreleptin injection stimulated hepatic VLDL-TG secretion (primary outcome) and reduced hepatic lipid content in fasted, lean men (n = 13, age range 20-38 years) but failed to do so in metabolically healthy liver transplant recipients (n = 9, age range 26-62 years) who represent a model for hepatic denervation. In an independent cohort of lean men (n = 10, age range 23-31 years), vagal stimulation by modified sham feeding replicated the effects of metreleptin on VLDL-TG secretion. Therefore, we propose that leptin has anti-steatotic properties that are independent of food intake by stimulating hepatic VLDL-TG export via a brain-vagus-liver axis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthäus Metz
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Marianna Beghini
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Peter Wolf
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Lorenz Pfleger
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Martina Hackl
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Magdalena Bastian
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Angelika Freudenthaler
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Jürgen Harreiter
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Maximilian Zeyda
- Clinical Division of Pediatric Pulmonology, Allergology and Endocrinology, Department for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Comprehensive Center for Pediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Sabina Baumgartner-Parzer
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Rodrig Marculescu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Nara Marella
- CeMM - Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - J Thomas Hannich
- CeMM - Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Georg Györi
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Gabriela Berlakovich
- Division of Transplantation, Department of Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Michael Roden
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Medical Faculty and University Hospital, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany; Institute for Clinical Diabetology, German Diabetes Center, Leibniz Center for Diabetes Research at Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf 40225, Germany
| | - Michael Krebs
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Robert Risti
- Department of Chemistry, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn 12618, Estonia
| | - Aivar Lõokene
- Department of Chemistry, Tallinn University of Technology, Tallinn 12618, Estonia
| | - Michael Trauner
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Alexandra Kautzky-Willer
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Martin Krššák
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Herbert Stangl
- Institute of Medical Chemistry, Center for Pathobiochemistry and Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Clemens Fürnsinn
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria
| | - Thomas Scherer
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna 1090, Austria.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Adipokines in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Are We on the Road toward New Biomarkers and Therapeutic Targets? BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11081237. [PMID: 36009862 PMCID: PMC9405285 DOI: 10.3390/biology11081237] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is an unmet medical need due to its increasingly high incidence, severe clinical consequences, and the absence of feasible diagnostic tools and effective drugs. This review summarizes the preclinical and clinical data on adipokines, cytokine-like hormones secreted by adipose tissue, and NAFLD. The aim is to establish the potential of adipokines as diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers, as well as their potential as therapeutic targets for NAFLD. The limitations of current research are also discussed, and future perspectives are outlined. Abstract Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become the major cause of chronic hepatic illness and the leading indication for liver transplantation in the future decades. NAFLD is also commonly associated with other high-incident non-communicable diseases, such as cardiovascular complications, type 2 diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. Aggravating the socio-economic impact of this complex pathology, routinely feasible diagnostic methodologies and effective drugs for NAFLD management are unavailable. The pathophysiology of NAFLD, recently defined as metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), is correlated with abnormal adipose tissue–liver axis communication because obesity-associated white adipose tissue (WAT) inflammation and metabolic dysfunction prompt hepatic insulin resistance (IR), lipid accumulation (steatosis), non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and fibrosis. Accumulating evidence links adipokines, cytokine-like hormones secreted by adipose tissue that have immunometabolic activity, with NAFLD pathogenesis and progression; however, much uncertainty still exists. Here, the current knowledge on the roles of leptin, adiponectin, ghrelin, resistin, retinol-binding protein 4 (RBP4), visfatin, chemerin, and adipocyte fatty-acid-binding protein (AFABP) in NAFLD, taken from preclinical to clinical studies, is overviewed. The effect of therapeutic interventions on adipokines’ circulating levels are also covered. Finally, future directions to address the potential of adipokines as therapeutic targets and disease biomarkers for NAFLD are discussed.
Collapse
|
10
|
Polyzos SA, Mantzoros CS. Metreleptin for the treatment of lipodystrophy: leading the way among novel therapeutics for this unmet clinical need. Curr Med Res Opin 2022; 38:885-888. [PMID: 35352624 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2022.2059974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stergios A Polyzos
- First Laboratory of Pharmacology, Medical School, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Medicine, Boston VA Healthcare System, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Brandt S, von Schnurbein J, Denzer C, Kratzer W, Wabitsch M. Lower Circulating Leptin Levels Are Related to Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children With Obesity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:881982. [PMID: 35677722 PMCID: PMC9169562 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.881982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background While for individuals with obesity an association between hyperleptinemia and an increased risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is assumed, a leptin deficiency is also related to the development of NAFLD early in life in ob/ob mice, in patients with leptin deficiency due to biallelic likely pathogenic variants in the leptin gene, and in patients with lipodystrophy. Objectives To investigate the association of circulating leptin levels in pre-pubertal children with obesity and steatosis hepatis. Methods The cross-sectional study consisted data of n=97 (nmale=76) pre-pubertal children (11.8 ± 1.5 years) with obesity (BMIz: 2.4 ± 0.4). Fasting concentrations of cardiometabolic parameters were measured: insulin, c-peptide, glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, AST, ALT, GGT, leptin. Steatosis hepatis was diagnosed by an ultrasound examination (mild, moderate or severe). Patients were categorized into two groups: low z-score of circulating leptin levels (≤25th percentile) vs. normal z-score of circulating leptin levels. Results One-third of the children with obesity were diagnosed with steatosis hepatis (I°: 63.6%, II°/III°: 36.4%). Children with steatosis hepatis had significantly lower z-scores of circulating leptin levels compared to children with an unremarkable liver ultrasonography (-2.1 ± 0.8 vs. -0.7 ± 0.6). Z-scores of circulating leptin levels correlate negatively with degree of steatosis hepatis. Children with low z-scores of circulating leptin levels had significantly higher triglyceride, fasting insulin and c-peptide levels compared to children with normal z-scores of circulating leptin levels. Conclusion Prepubertal children with NAFLD and obesity and partial leptin deficiency might be defined as a clinical subgroup.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Brandt
- Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases, Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Julia von Schnurbein
- Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases, Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Christian Denzer
- Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases, Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Kratzer
- Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| | - Martin Wabitsch
- Center for Rare Endocrine Diseases, Division of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center Ulm, Ulm, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Okawa MC, Cochran E, Lightbourne M, Brown RJ. Long-Term Effects of Metreleptin in Rabson-Mendenhall Syndrome on Glycemia, Growth, and Kidney Function. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e1032-e1046. [PMID: 34718628 PMCID: PMC8852213 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Rabson-Mendenhall syndrome (RMS) is caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in the insulin receptor gene (INSR) leading to insulin-resistant diabetes, microvascular complications, and growth hormone resistance with short stature. Small, uncontrolled studies suggest that 1-year treatment with recombinant leptin (metreleptin) improves glycemia in RMS. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine effects of long-term metreleptin in RMS on glycemia, anthropometrics, the growth hormone axis, and kidney function. METHODS We compared RMS patients during nonrandomized open-label treatment with metreleptin (≥ 0.15 mg/kg/day) vs no metreleptin over 90 months (5 subjects in both groups at different times, 4 only in metreleptin group, 2 only in control group). Main outcome measures were A1c; glucose; insulin; 24-hour urine glucose; standard deviation scores (SDS) for height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1); growth hormone; and estimated glomerular filtration rate. RESULTS Over time, metreleptin-treated subjects maintained 1.8 percentage point lower A1c vs controls (P = 0.007), which remained significant after accounting for changes in insulin doses. Metreleptin-treated subjects had a reduction in BMI SDS, which predicted decreased A1c. Growth hormone increased after metreleptin treatment vs control, with no difference in SDS between groups for IGF-1 or height. Reduced BMI predicted higher growth hormone, while reduced A1c predicted higher IGF-1. CONCLUSION Metreleptin alters the natural history of rising A1c in RMS, leading to lower A1c throughout long-term follow-up. Improved glycemia with metreleptin is likely attributable to appetite suppression and lower BMI SDS. Lower BMI after metreleptin may also worsen growth hormone resistance in RMS, resulting in a null effect on IGF-1 and growth despite improved glycemia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marinna C Okawa
- Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Obesity Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Elaine Cochran
- Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Obesity Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Marissa Lightbourne
- Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Obesity Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Rebecca J Brown
- Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Obesity Branch, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
- Correspondence: Rebecca J. Brown, MD, MHSc, Building 10-CRC, Room 6-5942, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Brown RJ, Reitman ML. Finding a sweet spot for leptin. MED 2021; 2:794-796. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medj.2021.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
|