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Mantovani A, Lonardo A, Stefan N, Targher G. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease and extrahepatic gastrointestinal cancers. Metabolism 2024; 160:156014. [PMID: 39182602 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2024.156014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/27/2024]
Abstract
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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Mantovani
- Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Amedeo Lonardo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - Norbert Stefan
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Nephrology, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; Institute of Diabetes Research and Metabolic Diseases (IDM) of the Helmholtz Center Munich, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Giovanni Targher
- Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Italy; Metabolic Diseases Research Unit, IRCCS Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria Hospital, Negrar di Valpolicella, Italy.
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Sandireddy R, Sakthivel S, Gupta P, Behari J, Tripathi M, Singh BK. Systemic impacts of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) on heart, muscle, and kidney related diseases. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1433857. [PMID: 39086662 PMCID: PMC11289778 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1433857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is the most common liver disorder worldwide, with an estimated global prevalence of more than 31%. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), formerly known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), is a progressive form of MASLD characterized by hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the extrahepatic manifestations of MASH, focusing on chronic diseases related to the cardiovascular, muscular, and renal systems. A systematic review of published studies and literature was conducted to summarize the findings related to the systemic impacts of MASLD and MASH. The review focused on the association of MASLD and MASH with metabolic comorbidities, cardiovascular mortality, sarcopenia, and chronic kidney disease. Mechanistic insights into the concept of lipotoxic inflammatory "spill over" from the MASH-affected liver were also explored. MASLD and MASH are highly associated (50%-80%) with other metabolic comorbidities such as impaired insulin response, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and hypertension. Furthermore, more than 90% of obese patients with type 2 diabetes have MASH. Data suggest that in middle-aged individuals (especially those aged 45-54), MASLD is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular mortality, sarcopenia, and chronic kidney disease. The concept of lipotoxic inflammatory "spill over" from the MASH-affected liver plays a crucial role in mediating the systemic pathological effects observed. Understanding the multifaceted impact of MASH on the heart, muscle, and kidney is crucial for early detection and risk stratification. This knowledge is also timely for implementing comprehensive disease management strategies addressing multi-organ involvement in MASH pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Madhulika Tripathi
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Research Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Brijesh Kumar Singh
- Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disorders Research Program, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
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Richter MM, Kemp IM, Heebøll S, Winther-Sørensen M, Kjeldsen SAS, Jensen NJ, Nybing JD, Linden FH, Høgh-Schmidt E, Boesen MP, Madsbad S, Schiødt FV, Nørgaard K, Schmidt S, Gluud LL, Haugaard SB, Holst JJ, Nielsen S, Rungby J, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ. Glucagon augments the secretion of FGF21 and GDF15 in MASLD by indirect mechanisms. Metabolism 2024; 156:155915. [PMID: 38631460 DOI: 10.1016/j.metabol.2024.155915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glucagon receptor agonism is currently explored for the treatment of obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The metabolic effects of glucagon receptor agonism may in part be mediated by increases in circulating levels of Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 (FGF21) and Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF15). The effect of glucagon agonism on FGF21 and GDF15 levels remains uncertain, especially in the context of elevated insulin levels commonly observed in metabolic diseases. METHODS We investigated the effect of a single bolus of glucagon and a continuous infusion of glucagon on plasma concentrations of FGF21 and GDF15 in conditions of endogenous low or high insulin levels. The studies included individuals with overweight with and without MASLD, healthy controls (CON) and individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). The direct effect of glucagon on FGF21 and GDF15 was evaluated using our in-house developed isolated perfused mouse liver model. RESULTS FGF21 and GDF15 correlated with plasma levels of insulin, but not glucagon, and their secretion was highly increased in MASLD compared with CON and T1D. Furthermore, FGF21 levels in individuals with overweight with or without MASLD did not increase after glucagon stimulation when insulin levels were kept constant. FGF21 and GDF15 levels were unaffected by direct stimulation with glucagon in the isolated perfused mouse liver. CONCLUSION The glucagon-induced secretion of FGF21 and GDF15 is augmented in MASLD and may depend on insulin. Thus, glucagon receptor agonism may augment its metabolic benefits in patients with MASLD through enhanced secretion of FGF21 and GDF15.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael M Richter
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen 2400, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Ida M Kemp
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen 2400, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Sara Heebøll
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200, Denmark
| | - Marie Winther-Sørensen
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark; Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Sasha A S Kjeldsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen 2400, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Nicole J Jensen
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen 2400, Denmark
| | - Janus D Nybing
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen 2400, Denmark
| | - Frederik H Linden
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen 2400, Denmark
| | - Erik Høgh-Schmidt
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen 2400, Denmark
| | - Mikael P Boesen
- Department of Radiology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen 2400, Denmark
| | - Sten Madsbad
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Hvidovre, Hvidovre 2650, Denmark
| | - Frank Vinholt Schiødt
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Kirsten Nørgaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev 2730, Denmark
| | - Signe Schmidt
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev 2730, Denmark
| | - Lise Lotte Gluud
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark; Gastro Unit, Copenhagen University Hospital - Hvidovre, Hvidovre 2650, Denmark
| | - Steen B Haugaard
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen 2400, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Jens J Holst
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Søren Nielsen
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200, Denmark
| | - Jørgen Rungby
- Department of Endocrinology, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen 2400, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Herlev 2730, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital - Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg, Copenhagen 2400, Denmark; Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark.
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Boutari C, Stefanakis K, Simati S, Guatibonza-García V, Valenzuela-Vallejo L, Anastasiou IA, Connelly MA, Kokkinos A, Mantzoros CS. Circulating total and H-specific GDF15 levels are elevated in subjects with MASLD but not in hyperlipidemic but otherwise metabolically healthy subjects with obesity. Cardiovasc Diabetol 2024; 23:174. [PMID: 38762719 PMCID: PMC11102634 DOI: 10.1186/s12933-024-02264-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is a mitokine, the role of which, total or H-specific, in modulating energy metabolism and homeostasis in obesity-related diseases, such as metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), has not been fully elucidated in adult humans. We aimed to investigate the fasting and stimulated levels of GDF15, total and H-specific, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and C-peptide, in two physiology interventional studies: one focusing on obesity, and the other on MASLD. METHODS Study 1 investigated individuals with normal weight or with obesity, undergoing a 3-h mixed meal test (MMT); and study 2, examined adults with MASLD and controls undergoing a 120-min oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Exploratory correlations of total and H-specific GDF15 with clinical, hormonal and metabolomic/lipidomic parameters were also performed. RESULTS In study 1, 15 individuals were included per weight group. Fasting and postprandial total and H-specific GDF15 were similar between groups, whereas GIP was markedly higher in leaner individuals and was upregulated following a MMT. Baseline and postprandial C-peptide were markedly elevated in people with obesity compared with lean subjects. GIP was higher in leaner individuals and was upregulated after a MMT, while C-peptide and its overall AUC after a MMT was markedly elevated in people with obesity compared with lean subjects. In study 2, 27 individuals were evaluated. Fasting total GDF15 was similar, but postprandial total GDF15 levels were significantly higher in MASLD patients compared to controls. GIP and C-peptide remained unaffected. The postprandial course of GDF15 was clustered among those of triglycerides and molecules of the alanine cycle, was robustly elevated under MASLD, and constituted the most notable differentiating molecule between healthy and MASLD status. We also present robust positive correlations of the incremental area under the curve of total and H-specific GDF15 with a plethora of lipid subspecies, which remained significant after adjusting for confounders. CONCLUSION Serum GDF15 levels do not differ in relation to weight status in hyperlipidemic but otherwise metabolically healthy individuals. In contrast, GDF15 levels are significantly increased in MASLD patients at baseline and they remain significantly higher compared to healthy participants during OGTT, pointing to a role for GDF15 as a mitokine with important roles in the pathophysiology and possibly therapeutics of MASLD. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03986684, NCT04430946.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chrysoula Boutari
- Department of Medicine, Beth-Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Ave, SL418, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Konstantinos Stefanakis
- Department of Medicine, Beth-Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Ave, SL418, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Stamatia Simati
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Valentina Guatibonza-García
- Department of Medicine, Beth-Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Ave, SL418, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Laura Valenzuela-Vallejo
- Department of Medicine, Beth-Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Ave, SL418, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Ioanna A Anastasiou
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Alexander Kokkinos
- First Department of Propaedeutic Internal Medicine, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Laiko General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Department of Medicine, Beth-Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Ave, SL418, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, 02218, USA.
- Department of Medicine, Boston VA Healthcare System, Boston, MA, 02130, USA.
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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.
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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.)
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De Cól JP, de Lima EP, Pompeu FM, Cressoni Araújo A, de Alvares Goulart R, Bechara MD, Laurindo LF, Méndez-Sánchez N, Barbalho SM. Underlying Mechanisms behind the Brain-Gut-Liver Axis and Metabolic-Associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD): An Update. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:3694. [PMID: 38612504 PMCID: PMC11011299 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25073694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) includes several metabolic dysfunctions caused by dysregulation in the brain-gut-liver axis and, consequently, increases cardiovascular risks and fatty liver dysfunction. In MAFLD, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, and metabolic syndrome are frequently present; these conditions are related to liver lipogenesis and systemic inflammation. This study aimed to review the connection between the brain-gut-liver axis and MAFLD. The inflammatory process, cellular alterations in hepatocytes and stellate cells, hypercaloric diet, and sedentarism aggravate the prognosis of patients with MAFLD. Thus, to understand the modulation of the physiopathology of MAFLD, it is necessary to include the organokines involved in this process (adipokines, myokines, osteokines, and hepatokines) and their clinical relevance to project future perspectives of this condition and bring to light new possibilities in therapeutic approaches. Adipokines are responsible for the activation of distinct cellular signaling in different tissues, such as insulin and pro-inflammatory cytokines, which is important for balancing substances to avoid MAFLD and its progression. Myokines improve the quantity and quality of adipose tissues, contributing to avoiding the development of MAFLD. Finally, hepatokines are decisive in improving or not improving the progression of this disease through the regulation of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory organokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Júlia Pauli De Cól
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidade de Marília (UNIMAR), São Paulo 17525-902, Brazil; (J.P.D.C.); (M.D.B.)
| | - Enzo Pereira de Lima
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidade de Marília (UNIMAR), São Paulo 17525-902, Brazil; (J.P.D.C.); (M.D.B.)
| | - Fernanda Moris Pompeu
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidade de Marília (UNIMAR), São Paulo 17525-902, Brazil; (J.P.D.C.); (M.D.B.)
| | - Adriano Cressoni Araújo
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidade de Marília (UNIMAR), São Paulo 17525-902, Brazil; (J.P.D.C.); (M.D.B.)
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Universidade de Marília (UNIMAR), São Paulo 17525-902, Brazil;
| | - Ricardo de Alvares Goulart
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Universidade de Marília (UNIMAR), São Paulo 17525-902, Brazil;
| | - Marcelo Dib Bechara
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidade de Marília (UNIMAR), São Paulo 17525-902, Brazil; (J.P.D.C.); (M.D.B.)
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Universidade de Marília (UNIMAR), São Paulo 17525-902, Brazil;
| | - Lucas Fornari Laurindo
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Faculdade de Medicina de Marília (FAMEMA), Marília, São Paulo 17519-080, Brazil;
| | - Nahum Méndez-Sánchez
- Liver Research Unit, Medica Sur Clinic & Foundation, Mexico City 14050, Mexico;
- Faculty of Medicine, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City 04510, Mexico
| | - Sandra Maria Barbalho
- Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Universidade de Marília (UNIMAR), São Paulo 17525-902, Brazil; (J.P.D.C.); (M.D.B.)
- Postgraduate Program in Structural and Functional Interactions in Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Universidade de Marília (UNIMAR), São Paulo 17525-902, Brazil;
- Department of Biochemistry and Nutrition, School of Food and Technology of Marília (FATEC), São Paulo 17500-000, Brazil
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7
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Kouvari M, Valenzuela-Vallejo L, Axarloglou E, Verrastro O, Papatheodoridis G, Mingrone G, George J, Mantzoros CS. Thyroid function, adipokines and mitokines in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis: A multi-centre biopsy-based observational study. Liver Int 2024; 44:848-864. [PMID: 38263703 DOI: 10.1111/liv.15847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Thyroid axis is currently under investigation as a therapeutic target in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Thyroid function was examined herein in the full spectrum of disease. METHODS Subjects were recruited and had liver biopsies in two Gastroenterology-Hepatology Clinics (Greece and Australia) and one Bariatric-Metabolic Surgery Clinic (Italy). The main working sample was n = 677 subjects with MASLD after excluding subjects with abnormal free thyroxine levels. Participants were classified according to thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) standard criteria: Subclinical hyperthyroidism (<0.4 uIU/mL); Euthyroidism with relatively low (0.4 to <2.5 uIU/mL); euthyroidism with relatively high (2.5-4.0 uIU/mL); subclinical hypothyroidism (>4 uIU/mL). RESULTS TSH as a continuous variable was positively associated with significant fibrosis (F ≥ 2), metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and at-risk MASH. Subclinical hypothyroidism was associated with fibrosis F ≥ 2 (odds ratio [OR] = 3.47, 95% confident interval [CI] [1.50, 8.05], p = .02), MASH (OR = 3.44, 95% CI [1.48, 7.98] p = .001) and at-risk MASH (OR = 3.88, 95% CI [1.76, 8.55], p = .001), before and after controlling for adiposity, central obesity, and insulin resistance. When leptin, adiponectin, or growth differentiation factor-15 were examined as moderators, significance was lost. Sex-specific analysis revealed a strong association between TSH and the presence of significant fibrosis among women, eliminated only when adipokines/mitokines were adjusted for. Restricted cubic spline analysis revealed associations between TSH and liver outcomes (p-values < .01) with inflection points for fibrosis F ≥ 2 being 2.49, for MASH being 2.67 and for at-risk MASH being 6.96. CONCLUSIONS These observations provide support for studies on the administration of thyroid hormone in MASLD therapeutics for subclinical hypothyroidism and liver-specific thyroid receptor agonists for subjects across the TSH continuum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matina Kouvari
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Laura Valenzuela-Vallejo
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Evangelos Axarloglou
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Georgios Papatheodoridis
- Department of Gastroenterology, Medical School of National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, General Hospital of Athens "Laiko", Athens, Greece
| | | | - Jacob George
- Storr Liver Centre, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christos S Mantzoros
- Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Department of Medicine, Boston VA Healthcare System, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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8
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Nagai K, Nagai K, Iwaki M, Kobayashi T, Nogami A, Oka M, Saito S, Yoneda M. Frontiers of Collaboration between Primary Care and Specialists in the Management of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Review. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:2144. [PMID: 38004284 PMCID: PMC10672694 DOI: 10.3390/life13112144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is the most common liver disease. It has a rapidly growing patient population owing to the increasing prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Patients with MASLD are primarily treated by family physicians when fibrosis is absent or mild and by gastroenterologists/hepatologists when fibrosis is more advanced. It is imperative that a system for the appropriate treatment and surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma be established in order to ensure that highly fibrotic cases are not overlooked among the large number of MASLD patients. Family physicians should check for viral hepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, and drug-induced liver disease, and should evaluate fibrosis using NIT; gastroenterologists/hepatologists should perform liver biopsy, ultrasound elastography (260 units in Japan as of October 2023), and MR elastography (35 units in Japan as of October 2023). This review presents the latest findings in MASLD and the role, accuracy, and clinical use of NIT. It also describes the collaboration between Japanese primary care and gastroenterologists/hepatologists in Japan in the treatment of liver diseases, including MASLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koki Nagai
- Gastroenterology Division, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, 3-60-2 Harajyuku, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama 245-8575, Japan;
| | - Kazuki Nagai
- Nagai Clinic, 1-7-25 Yokodai, Isogo-ku, Yokohama 235-0045, Japan;
| | - Michihiro Iwaki
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University Hospital, 3-9 Fuku-ura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan; (M.I.); (T.K.); (A.N.)
| | - Takashi Kobayashi
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University Hospital, 3-9 Fuku-ura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan; (M.I.); (T.K.); (A.N.)
| | - Asako Nogami
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Yokohama City University Hospital, 3-9 Fuku-ura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama 236-0004, Japan; (M.I.); (T.K.); (A.N.)
| | - Masanao Oka
- OkaMedical, 1-19-18-3F Kamiookanishi, Kounan-ku, Yokohama 233-0002, Japan;
| | - Satoru Saito
- Sanno Hospital, 8-10-16 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052, Japan;
| | - Masato Yoneda
- Gastroenterology Division, National Hospital Organization Yokohama Medical Center, 3-60-2 Harajyuku, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama 245-8575, Japan;
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