Identification and validation of cuproptosis-related molecular clusters in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Copper homeostasis and cuproptosis-related genes: Therapeutic perspectives in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, has become the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. Recently, the discovery of cuproptosis, a newly identified mode of cell death, further highlighted the importance of copper in maintaining metabolic homeostasis. An increasing number of studies have confirmed that liver copper metabolism is closely related to the pathogenesis of NAFLD. However, the relationship between NAFLD and copper metabolism, especially cuproptosis, remains unclear. In this review, we aim to summarize the current understanding of copper metabolism and its dysregulation, particularly the role of copper metabolism dysregulation in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. More importantly, this review emphasizes potential gene-targeted therapeutic strategies, challenges and the future of cuproptosis-related genes in the treatment of NAFLD. This review aims to provide innovative therapeutic strategies for NAFLD.

Elucidating cuproptosis in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

Emerging research into metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) up until January 2024 has highlighted the critical role of cuproptosis, a unique cell death mechanism triggered by copper overload, in the disease's development. This connection offers new insights into MASLD's complex pathogenesis, pointing to copper accumulation as a key factor that disrupts lipid metabolism and insulin sensitivity. The identification of cuproptosis as a significant contributor to MASLD underscores the potential for targeting copper-mediated pathways for novel therapeutic approaches. This promising avenue suggests that managing copper levels could mitigate MASLD progression, offering a fresh perspective on treatment strategies. Further investigations into how cuproptosis influences MASLD are essential for unraveling the detailed mechanisms at play and for identifying effective interventions. The focus on copper's role in liver health opens up the possibility of developing targeted therapies that address the underlying causes of MASLD, moving beyond symptomatic treatment to tackle the root of the problem. The exploration of cuproptosis in the context of MASLD exemplifies the importance of understanding metal homeostasis in metabolic diseases and represents a significant step forward in the quest for more effective treatments. This research direction lights path for innovative MASLD management and reversal.

Examining the Pathogenesis of MAFLD and the Medicinal Properties of Natural Products from a Metabolic Perspective

Metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), characterized primarily by hepatic steatosis, has become the most prevalent liver disease worldwide, affecting approximately two-fifths of the global population. The pathogenesis of MAFLD is extremely complex, and to date, there are no approved therapeutic drugs for clinical use. Considerable evidence indicates that various metabolic disorders play a pivotal role in the progression of MAFLD, including lipids, carbohydrates, amino acids, and micronutrients. In recent years, the medicinal properties of natural products have attracted widespread attention, and numerous studies have reported their efficacy in ameliorating metabolic disorders and subsequently alleviating MAFLD. This review aims to summarize the metabolic-associated pathological mechanisms of MAFLD, as well as the natural products that regulate metabolic pathways to alleviate MAFLD.