Associations of depression, anxiety and antidepressants with histological severity of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Trajectories of depressive symptoms and risk of chronic liver disease: evidence from CHARLS

BACKGROUND

It is unclear whether there is a association between the long-term depressive symptoms and chronic liver disease(CLD). The aim of present study was to investigate the relationship between the trajectories of depressive symptoms and CLD in middle-aged and older Chinese adults.

METHODS

The study included data from 7351 Chinese individuals, which from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). Latent Class Growth Model (LCGM) and Growth Mixture Model (GMM) identified five categories of depressive symptom trajectories from 2011 to 2015. Multiple logistic regression models were used to analyze the relationship between depressive symptom trajectories and CLD in 2015-2020.

RESULTS

We identified five distinct trajectories of depressive symptoms characterized by persistent low CES-D scores throughout follow-up (low-stable; 4621 cases [62.86%]); high starting CES-D scores but then declining (high-decreasing; 824 cases [11.21%]); persistent high CES-D scores during follow-up (high-stable; 508 cases [6.91%]); starting moderate CES-D scores but then increasing (moderate-increasing; 844 cases [11.48%]); and low starting CES-D scores that increased and then remitted through follow-up (remitting; 554 cases [7.54%]). A total of 420 (5.71%) participants developed chronic liver disease during follow-up. The ORs (95% CI) for the risk of developing chronic liver disease in participants on the moderate-increasing trajectory, high-decreasing trajectory, and high-stable trajectory were 1.44 (1.05-1.93), 1.59 (1.17-2.12), and 2.25 (1.62-3.08), respectively, compared with participants on the low-stable trajectory.

CONCLUSION

In Chinese middle-aged and older adults, individuals with moderate-increasing, high-decreasing, and high-stable trajectories of depressive symptoms over time had an increased risk of developing CLD.

Liver Diseases and Brain Disorders: Genetic Mechanisms and Biomarker Pathways in a Prospective Cohort Study From the UK Biobank

Population-based evidence directly linking liver diseases to brain disorders is limited, and its genetic and biochemical associations remain unclear. Our aim is to examine the links between liver diseases and brain disorders. This prospective cohort study utilized data from 492 059 participants in the UK Biobank. We identified 508 cases of alcoholic liver disease (ALD), 583 cases of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and 557 cases of viral hepatitis (VH) based on International Classification of Diseases (ICD) codes. Initially, we employed multiple linear and logistic regression to assess associations between liver diseases, polygenic risk score (PRS), inflammatory and metabolic biomarkers, and brain function. Cox proportional hazard models were then applied to determine the impact of liver diseases on the incidence of brain disorders. Ultimately, structural equation models were used to explore potential genetic and biomarker pathways. During a median follow-up of 14.46 years, participants with ALD, NAFLD, and VH demonstrated poorer cognition, mental health, and motor function compared to the healthy group, with p < 0.05 for false discovery rate (FDR-Q < 0.05). They exhibited increased risks for dementia (hazard ratios [HRs]: 2.28-4.10; FDR-Q < 0.001), major depressive disorder (HRs: 2.25-3.23; FDR-Q < 0.001), and generalized anxiety disorder (HRs: 1.70-2.66; FDR-Q < 0.01). Additionally, C-reactive protein, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, platelets, and low-density lipoprotein lipid components mediated the associations between PRS, liver diseases, and brain disorders. Our findings demonstrated that liver diseases were risk factors for brain disorders, with genetic and biochemical associations contributing to these risks.

A Cross-Sectional Retrospective Review of Neuropsychiatric Comorbidities in Children With Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

This single-center cross-sectional retrospective chart review sought to define the prevalence of neuropsychiatric (NP) disorders among children with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) compared to the general population. The prevalence rate of NP disorders was determined at diagnosis among children evaluated from 2006 to 2016. The NP disorder prevalence rates were compared to those reported in the 2016 National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH). 24.3% of 254 children with NAFLD reported to have at least 1 NP disorder compared to 16.9% of those in NSCH (relative risk [RR] = 1.44; P < .0001). More children had intellectual disability (ID) (4.5% vs 0.8%; RR = 5.43, P < .0001), depression (3.9% vs 2.2%; RR = 1.82, P = .0009), or autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (3.3% vs 2.0%; RR = 1.67, P = .047) in the Boston Children's Hospital (BCH) NAFLD cohort. The prevalence of 1 NP disorder was 29.4% in our cohort compared to 22.3% in NSCH (RR = 1.32; P = .007). Children with NAFLD have a higher rate of NP disorders compared to the general population.

Life's Crucial 9 and NAFLD from association to SHAP-interpreted machine learning predictions

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and NAFLD share multiple common risk factors. Life's Crucial 9 (LC9), a novel indicator for comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular health (CVH), has not yet been studied in terms of its association with or predictive value for NAFLD. This study analyzed data from 10,197 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2007 to 2018. The association between LC9 and NAFLD was assessed using weighted logistic regression, while weighted Cox proportional hazards models were applied to evaluate the relationship between LC9 and all-cause mortality among NAFLD patients. Restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis was conducted to explore dose-response relationships, and Kaplan-Meier survival curves were utilized to examine differences in survival outcomes. Machine learning (ML) approaches were employed to construct predictive models, with the optimal model further interpreted using SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP). An increase of 10 points in LC9 was negatively associated with the risk of NAFLD (model 3: OR = 0.39, 95% CI = 0.36 - 0.42, P < 0.001) and all-cause mortality in NAFLD patients (model 3: HR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.67 - 0.91, P < 0.001). A non-linear relationship was observed between LC9 and NAFLD (P < 0.0001 for nonlinearity). Among the eight ML models, the Support Vector Machine (SVM) demonstrated the best predictive performance (AUC = 0.873). SHAP analysis indicated that LC9 was the most significant predictor in the model. LC9 demonstrated a nonlinear negative association with NAFLD and a linear negative association with all-cause mortality in NAFLD patients. Maintaining a higher LC9 score may reduce the risk of NAFLD and all-cause mortality among NAFLD patients. The predictive model developed using Support Vector Machine (SVM) exhibited strong clinical predictive value, with LC9 being the most critical factor in the model, facilitating self-risk assessment and targeted intervention.

Psychosocial risks in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

INTRODUCTION

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is increasingly becoming more prevalent in the general population. MASLD is more common in persons with low socioeconomic status (SES), yet little is known about the psychosocial challenges associated with this disease, and clinical recommendations on how to approach psychosocial challenges are lacking.

AREAS COVERED

A PubMed search using the search terms MASLD, psychosocial risks, stigmatization, psychiatric comorbidities (i.e. depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and substance abuse), SES, quality of life (QoL), over the past 20 years (2004-2024) was performed.

EXPERT OPINION

Persons with MASLD often experience psychosocial adversities that may be expressed as lower SES, high prevalence of depression, and reduced QoL. Knowledge gaps remain regarding the association between severe mental disorders (e.g. psychosis and bipolar disorders). Timely detection and treatment of MASLD in persons with psychosocial risks may require attention and cross-field collaboration. Studies on QoL in persons with MASLD differ in methodology which makes formal comparisons difficult. Psychosocial adversity may be a barrier to lifestyle modifications, which remain the cornerstone of MASLD management. Guidelines on how to address psychosocial adversities in a clinical setting are warranted to improve outcomes and decrease further multimorbidity.

A narrative review about cognitive impairment in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): Another matter to face through a holistic approach

BACKGROUND

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is the most common chronic hepatic disorder worldwide in both adults and children. It is well established that MASLD represents the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome whose definition includes the presence of obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D), dyslipidemia, hypertension and hypercoagulability. All these conditions contribute to a chronic inflammatory status which may impact on blood brain barrier (BBB) integrity leading to an impaired function of central nervous system (CNS).

AIM OF REVIEW

Since the mechanisms underlying the brain-liver-gut axis derangement are still inconclusive, the present narrative review aims to make a roundup of the most recent studies regarding the cognitive decline in MASLD also highlighting possible therapeutic strategies to reach a holistic advantage for the patients.

KEY SCIENTIFIC CONCEPTS OF REVIEW

Due to its ever-growing prevalence, the MASLD-related mental dysfunction represents an enormous socio-economic burden since it largely impacts on the quality of life of patients as well as on their working productivity. Indeed, cognitive decline in MASLD translates in low concentration and processing speed, reduced memory, sleepiness but also anxiety and depression. Chronic systemic inflammation, hyperammonemia, genetic background and intestinal dysbiosis possibly contribute to the cognitive decline in MASLD patients. However, its diagnosis is still underestimated since the leading mechanisms are multi-faceted and unexplained and do not exist standardized diagnostic tools or cognitive test strategies. In this scenario, nutritional and lifestyle interventions as well as intestinal microbiota manipulation (probiotics, fecal transplantation) may represent new approaches to counteract mental impairment in these subjects. In sum, to face the "mental aspect" of this multifactorial disease which is almost unexplored, cognitive tools should be introduced in the management of MASLD patients.

Presence of Mood and/or Anxiety Disorders Does Not Affect Success of Weight Management Therapies in Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and resultant steatohepatitis (MASH) have been linked to psychiatric comorbidities. The treatment of MASLD/MASH primarily relies upon weight loss, where achieving a 7% total body weight loss is recommended to improve steatohepatitis. We aimed to determine whether achieving a 7% total body weight loss (TBWL) in MASLD/MASH patients was significantly different in the presence of a mood and/or anxiety disorder in an interdisciplinary clinic that integrates weight management and hepatology care.

METHODS

We conducted a single center retrospective cohort study of MASLD/MASH patients segregated into those with an ICD-10 diagnosis of a mood and/or anxiety disorder to those without. The primary outcome was reaching a 7% TBWL at 12 months with univariable and multivariable logistic regression models used to identify treatments predicting a 7% TBWL. Secondary outcomes were noninvasive assessment of steatohepatitis improvement, including change in ALT and FIB-4 scores.

RESULTS

Of 567 patients with MASLD/MASH, 366 (64.6%) had a mood and/or anxiety disorder. The presence of psychiatric disease was not a significant predictor of weight loss or any secondary outcome measures at 12 months. Significant predictors of achieving 7% TBWL at 12 months among all patients with MASLD/MASH included semaglutide, phentermine-topiramate, and bariatric surgery. Significant predictors of achieving 7% TBWL at 12 months in patients with MASLD/MASH and a psychiatric comorbidity included semaglutide, topiramate, phentermine-topiramate, and bariatric surgery. Both groups experienced similar improvements in hepatic outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings suggest that obesity management in patients with MASLD/MASH performs similarly in the presence of comorbid mood and/or anxiety disorders. Topiramate and phentermine may be particularly effective in this patient population, yet are underutilized in routine hepatology practice.

Associations of an overall healthy lifestyle with the risk of metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease

BACKGROUND

Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) affects up to one-third of the global population. Since no approved pharmacotherapy for MAFLD is available, lifestyle modification remains the cornerstone of clinical care. Our study aims to evaluate the association of an overall healthy lifestyle with MAFLD risk.

METHODS

We conducted an analysis of 327,387 participants from UK biobank. An overall healthy lifestyle score including six evidence-based lifestyles (diet, alcohol consumption, physical activity, sedentary behavior, sleep, and smoking) was assessed by questionnaires. MAFLD and its subtypes were diagnosed by blood biochemistry, ICD codes, and medication information from touchscreen and verbal interview. The prevalence ratios (PRs) and risk ratios (RRs) were estimated by Poisson regression models with robust variance.

RESULTS

In the cross-sectional analysis, the PR (95% CI) was 0.83 (0.83 to 0.84) for MAFLD, and 0.83 (0.83 to 0.84) for MAFLD-overweight/obesity (MAFLD-O), 0.68 (0.66 to 0.70) for MAFLD-lean/normal weight and metabolic dysfunction (P-value for heterogeneity < 0.001), and 0.71 (0.71 to 0.72) for MAFLD-type 2 diabetes mellitus (MAFLD-T2D); and 0.68 (0.66 to 0.71) for dual (or more) etiology fatty liver disease (MAFLD-dual) and 0.83 (0.83 to 0.84) for single etiology MAFLD (MAFLD-single) (P-value for heterogeneity < 0.001) for one additional point in the overall healthy lifestyle score. During a median follow-up of 4.4 years, the RR (95% CI) was 0.83 (0.81 to 0.85) for MAFLD, and 0.83 (0.81 to 0.85) for MAFLD-O, 0.71 (0.62 to 0.81) for MAFLD-L, and 0.68 (0.64 to 0.72) for MAFLD-T2D (P-value for heterogeneity < 0.001); and 0.83 (0.81 to 0.85) for MAFLD-dual and 0.70 (0.58 to 0.85) for MAFLD-single (P-value for heterogeneity = 0.08) for one additional point in the overall healthy lifestyle score. These findings were validated in a prospective analysis among 15,721 participants with revisit data, and also supported by fatty liver index and proton density fat fraction data.

CONCLUSIONS

An overall healthy lifestyle that includes six evidence-based factors was strongly associated with lower MAFLD risk, especially the subtypes with multiple etiologies.

Association of depression with severe non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: evidence from the UK Biobank study and Mendelian randomization analysis

The relationship between depression and severe non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has not been clearly defined. We conducted a longitudinal cohort study and a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to assess the association of depression with severe NAFLD risk. We used individual data from the UK Biobank study with 481,181 participants, and summary data from published genome-wide association studies. The association between depression and severe NAFLD was assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. Two-sample MR for depression with NAFLD was conducted, the principal analysis employed the inverse variance weighted (IVW) approach. In the observational study, after a median follow-up of 13.46 years, 4,563 participants had severe NAFLD. In multivariable-adjusted model, participants with depression had an increased risk of severe NAFLD (hazards ratio:1.21, 95% confidence interval (CI):1.09-1.34), as compared to those without depression. In subgroup analyses, the association between depression and severe NAFLD risk was generally observed across different subgroups. For the MR, result also showed that genetically predicted depression was causally associated with a higher risk of NAFLD (odds ratio:1.55, 95%CI:1.10-2.19) in IVW. Our study revealed a prospective association of depression with severe NAFLD, thus potentially necessitating clinical monitoring of individuals with depression for severe NAFLD.

Persons with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease are at increased risk of severe depression

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Few population-based studies have investigated the association between metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and depression. Additionally, it remains unclear if depression affects progression to major adverse liver outcomes (MALO) in MASLD.

METHODS

All patients in Sweden with newly diagnosed MASLD between 2006 and 2020 were identified from the National Patient Register. Each patient was matched on age, sex, inclusion year, and municipality with up to 10 comparators from the general population. Cox regression was used to compare rates of severe depression in persons with MASLD to the comparators. In persons with MASLD, Cox regression was used to estimate rates of MALO using severe depression before baseline or diagnosed during follow-up as a time-varying exposure.

RESULTS

We included 11 301 persons with MASLD and 104 205 comparators who were followed for a median of 3.9 (IQR 1.5-7.6) and 4.9 years (IQR 2.3-8.7), respectively. The median age was 56 years and 5576 of 11 301 (49.3%) persons with MASLD were male. Incident severe depression developed in 228 of 11 301 (2.0%) persons with MASLD and 1160 of 104 205 (1.1%) comparators (fully adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.5-2.1). Of persons with MASLD, 25 of 1229 (2.0%) of those with severe depression before or after baseline progressed to MALO compared to 322 of 10 326 (3.1%) of those without severe depression (fully adjusted HR = 1.0, 95% CI = .6-1.5).

CONCLUSIONS

We confirm an association between MASLD and severe depression. However, no association between severe depression and incident MALO was found, but conclusions are limited by few observed outcomes.

Causal relationships between neuropsychiatric disorders and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Increasing evidences suggest that nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is associated with neuropsychiatric disorders. Nevertheless, whether there were causal associations between them remained vague. A causal association between neuropsychiatric disorders and NAFLD was investigated in this study.

METHODS

We assessed the published genome-wide association study summary statistics for NAFLD, seven mental disorder-related diseases and six central nervous system dysfunction-related diseases. The causal relationships were first assessed using two-sample and multivariable Mendelian randomization (MR). Then, sensitivity analyses were performed, followed by a reverse MR analysis to determine whether reverse causality is possible. Finally, we performed replication analyses and combined the findings from the above studies.

RESULTS

Our meta-analysis results showed NAFLD significantly increased the risk of anxiety disorders (OR = 1.016, 95% CI = 1.010-1.021, P value < 0.0001). In addition, major depressive disorder was the potential risk factor for NAFLD (OR = 1.233, 95% CI = 1.063-1.430, P value = 0.006). Multivariable MR analysis showed that the causal effect of major depressive disorder on NAFLD remained significant after considering body mass index, but the association disappeared after adjusting for the effect of waist circumference. Furthermore, other neuropsychiatric disorders and NAFLD were not found to be causally related.

CONCLUSIONS

These results implied causal relationships of NAFLD with anxiety disorders and Major Depressive Disorder. This study highlighted the need to recognize and understand the connection between neuropsychiatric disorders and NAFLD to prevent the development of related diseases.

Depressive symptom as a risk factor for cirrhosis in patients with primary biliary cholangitis: Analysis based on Lasso-logistic regression and decision tree models

BACKGROUND

Depressive symptoms are frequently observed in patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). The role of depressive symptoms on cirrhosis has not been fully noticed in PBC. We aimed to establish a risk model for cirrhosis that took depressive symptoms into account.

METHODS

Depressive symptoms were assessed by the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17). HAMD-17 score was analyzed in relation to clinical parameters. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso)-logistic regression and decision tree models were used to explore the effect of depressive symptoms on cirrhosis.

RESULTS

The rate of depressive symptom in patients with PBC (n = 162) was higher than in healthy controls (n = 180) (52.5% vs. 16.1%; p < .001). HAMD-17 score was negatively associated with C4 levels and positively associated with levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), total bilirubin (TB), Immunoglobulin (Ig) G, and IgM (r = -0.162, 0.197, 0.355, 0.203, 0.182, 0.314, p < .05). In Lasso-logistic regression analysis, HAMD-17 score, human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-DRB1*03:01 allele, age, ALP levels, and IgM levels (odds ratio [OR] = 1.087, 7.353, 1.075, 1.009, 1.005; p < 0.05) were independent risk factors for cirrhosis. Elevated HAMD-17 score was also a discriminating factor for high risk of cirrhosis in patients with PBC in decision tree model.

CONCLUSIONS

Depressive symptoms were associated with disease severity. Elevated HAMD-17 score was a risk factor for cirrhosis in patients with PBC.

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION IN METABOLIC DYSFUNCTION-ASSOCIATED STEATOTIC LIVER DISEASE (MASLD)

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to assess the frequency and intensity of anxious and depressive symptoms in patients diagnosed with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).

METHODS

This is a descriptive and cross-sectional study, resulting from 106 patients from the Hepatology outpatient clinic at the Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HC-FMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil without a history of alcohol abuse, verified by the alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT). These were assessed using the sociodemographic data sheet, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAM-A), and Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D).

RESULTS

A total of 69.8% were women and 30.2% were men, with a mean age of 61 years. The majority (71.7%) discovered MASLD through routine exams, presenting as comorbidities: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (59.4%), Dyslipidemia (49.1%), Arterial hypertension (68.9%), Obesity (61.3%) and Metabolic syndrome [MetS (63.2%)]. The HADS scale indicates 34% probability of anxiety and 33% depressive symptoms. The Hamilton's scales of intensity indicates 63.9% severe anxiety and 54.3% severe depression. There is also a relationship between anxiety, depression and the female gender, as well as between depression and MetS.

CONCLUSION

The findings point to the presence of anxiety and depression in more than one third of MASLD patients, most with severe symptoms. The group is concentrated in the elderly, with many comorbidities, including MetS. There was a positive correlation between anxiety, depression and being female; also, being significant between MetS and depression.

Association between Lifestyle Modification and All-Cause, Cardiovascular, and Premature Mortality in Individuals with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

BACKGROUND

This study is designed to explore the correlation between multiple healthy lifestyles within the framework of "lifestyle medicine", and the mortality risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

METHODS

The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database was employed. The analysis consisted of 5542 participants with baseline NAFLD and 5542 matched non-NAFLD participants from the database. Lifestyle information, including five low risk factors advocated by lifestyle medicine (healthy diet, vigorous physical activity, healthy sleep duration, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a non-depressed psychological status), was collected through a baseline questionnaire. Cox proportional hazards regression models and Kaplan-Meier survival curve were used to evaluate risk of mortality. In addition, subgroups were analyzed according to gender, age, body mass index and waist circumference.

RESULTS

In total, 502 deaths (n = 181 deaths from cardiovascular disease (CVD)) were recorded among NAFLD participants after the median follow up duration of 6.5 years. In the multivariate-adjusted model, compared to participants with an unfavorable lifestyle (scoring 0-1), NAFLD participants with a favorable lifestyle (scoring 4-5) experienced a 56% reduction in all-cause mortality and a 66% reduction in CVD mortality. Maintaining an undepressed psychological state and adhering to vigorous exercise significantly reduced CVD mortality risk in NAFLD participants (HR, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.43-0.95]; HR, 0.54 [95% CI, 0.33-0.88]) while maintaining healthy sleep reduced premature mortality due to CVD by 31%.

CONCLUSIONS

Healthy lifestyle, characterized by maintaining an undepressed mental state and healthy sleep, significantly mitigates the risk of all-cause, CVD, and premature mortality risk among NAFLD patients, with a particularly pronounced effect observed in female and obese subpopulations.

Causal relationship between depression and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: a bidirectional Mendelian randomized study

Background

With the global rise in obesity, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has emerged as the most common chronic liver disease. Concurrently, depression is a highly prevalent mental disorder. As the incidence of MASLD and depression continues to increase, a growing body of research indicates a potential association between the two conditions. However, the direction of causality between depression and MASLD remains uncertain. To address this gap, our study utilizes a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to explore the bidirectional causal relationship between depression and MASLD.

Methods

We extracted single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with depression and MASLD from pooled data of genome-wide association studies (GWAS). A comprehensive assessment of possible causality was also performed. Possible mediating effects of liver enzymes on MASLD were also assessed.

Results

A total of three GWAS pooled data on depression as well as GWAS data related to MASLD and GWAS data on four liver enzymes were used in this study. Our findings indicated a strong causal relationship between depression and MASLD (OR, 1.557; 95% CI, 1.097-2.211; P = 0.016). And we found a mediating effect of gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). ALT 10% (95% CI: 7% - 13%, P< 0.0002). AST, 4.14% (95% CI: 2.34% - 5.94%, P < 0.05). GGT 0.19% (95% CI: 0.15% - 0.22%, P< 0.000000002). However, we did not find a mediating effect of alkaline phosphatase (ALP). Our inverse MR analysis did not reveal any causal relationship between MASLD and depression.

Conclusions

The MR analysis revealed a positive causal relationship between depression and MASLD, while no reverse causal relationship was identified. Liver enzymes may mediate the role between depression and MASLD.

Alcohol Consumption Is a Coping Mechanism for Male Patients with Severe Anxiety Disorders Treated with Antidepressants Monotherapy

Background: Anxiety disorders are prevalent mental health conditions often accompanied by various comorbidities. The association between anxiety and liver disease, as well as fluctuations in blood sugar levels, highlights the importance of carefully evaluating patients with anxiety undergoing antidepressant therapy. The aim of this study was to conduct a comparative assessment of liver function and blood glucose levels in patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders while considering potential gender-specific differences. Methods: An analysis was conducted over a 24-month period. This study included 88 patients diagnosed with anxiety disorders, with symptoms severe enough to require hospitalization, aged 18 or older, undergoing antidepressant monotherapy, without any additional pathologies. Liver enzymes (AST, ALT, GGT), AST/ALT ratio, and blood glucose levels were measured and compared. Results: While no significant differences were found between antidepressant classes, increased GGT levels were observed in men older than 40 years compared to women of the same age, suggesting that alcohol consumption may be a coping mechanism for anxiety. This gender difference was not observed among young patients. Conclusions: Early detection of alcohol consumption is essential in patients with anxiety disorders in order to prevent alcohol-related liver damage and to adjust the management of both conditions accordingly.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and coexisting depression, anxiety and/or stress in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common chronic liver disease, affecting 25-30% of the general population globally. The condition is even more prevalent in individuals with obesity and is frequently linked to the metabolic syndrome. Given the known associations between the metabolic syndrome and common mental health issues, it is likely that such a relationship also exists between NAFLD and mental health problems. However, studies in this field remain limited. Accordingly, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to explore the prevalence of one or more common mental health conditions (i.e., depression, anxiety, and/or stress) in adults with NAFLD.

Methods

PubMed, EBSCOhost, ProQuest, Ovid, Web of Science, and Scopus were searched in order to identify studies reporting the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and/or stress among adults with NAFLD. A random-effects model was utilized to calculate the pooled prevalence and confidence intervals for depression, anxiety and stress.

Results

In total, 31 studies were eligible for inclusion, involving 2,126,593 adults with NAFLD. Meta-analyses yielded a pooled prevalence of 26.3% (95% CI: 19.2 to 34) for depression, 37.2% (95% CI: 21.6 to 54.3%) for anxiety, and 51.4% (95% CI: 5.5 to 95.8%) for stress among adults with NAFLD.

Conclusion

The present findings suggest a high prevalence of mental health morbidity among adults with NAFLD. Given the related public health impact, this finding should prompt further research to investigate such associations and elucidate potential associations between NAFLD and mental health morbidity, exploring potential shared underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42021288934.

The effects of restraint stress on ceramide metabolism disorders in the rat liver: the role of CerS6 in hepatocyte injury

BACKGROUND

Stress is implicated in various pathological conditions leading to liver injury. Existing evidence suggests that excessive stress can induce mitochondrial damage in hepatocytes, yet the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Ceramide synthase 6 (CerS6)-derived C16:0 ceramide is recognised as a lipotoxic substance capable of causing mitochondrial damage. However, the role of CerS6 in stress has received insufficient attention. This study aimed to explore the involvement of CerS6 in stress-induced hepatic damage and its associated mechanisms.

METHODS

The rat restraint stress model and a corticosterone (CORT)-induced hepatocyte stress model were employed for in vivo and in vitro experimental analyses, respectively. Changes in mitochondrial damage and ceramide metabolism in hepatocytes induced by stress were evaluated. The impact of CORT on mitochondrial damage and ceramide metabolism in hepatocytes was assessed following CerS6 knockdown. Mitochondria were isolated using a commercial kit, and ceramides in liver tissue and hepatocytes were detected by LC-MS/MS.

RESULTS

In comparison to the control group, rats subjected to one week of restraint exhibited elevated serum CORT levels. The liver displayed significant signs of mitochondrial damage, accompanied by increased CerS6 and mitochondrial C16:0 ceramide, along with activation of the AMPK/p38 MAPK pathway. In vitro studies demonstrated that CORT treatment of hepatocytes resulted in mitochondrial damage, concomitant with elevated CerS6 and mitochondrial C16:0 ceramide. Furthermore, CORT induced sequential phosphorylation of AMPK and p38 MAPK proteins, and inhibition of the p38 MAPK pathway using SB203580 mitigated the CORT-induced elevation in CerS6 protein. Knocking down CerS6 in hepatocytes inhibited both the increase in C16:0 ceramide and the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c induced by CORT.

CONCLUSIONS

CerS6-associated C16:0 ceramide plays a mediating role in stress-induced mitochondrial damage in hepatocytes. The molecular mechanism is linked to CORT-induced activation of the AMPK/p38 MAPK pathway, leading to upregulated CerS6.

Depression in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and all-cause/cause-specific mortality

BACKGROUND

Depression has been associated with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Data addressing the impact of depression on NAFLD-related mortality are evolving. We aim to study the association of depression in NAFLD and all-cause/cause-specific mortality in the United States.

METHODS

A total of 11,877 individuals with NAFLD in the 2007-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey with the availability of linked mortality through 2019 were analysed. NAFLD was defined by utilizing the hepatic steatosis index in the absence of known causes of chronic liver disease. Depression and functional impairment due to depression were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire.

RESULTS

During the median follow-up of 7.6 years, individuals with depression among individuals with NAFLD had a 35% higher all-cause mortality than those without depression (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.35, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03-1.75) after adjusting for demographic, lifestyle and clinical risk factors. NAFLD with functional impairment due to depression had a 62% higher all-cause mortality than NAFLD without functional impairment (HR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.10-2.39). Depression in NAFLD was associated with an approximately 50% increase in the risk for cardiovascular mortality, with a 2-fold higher cardiovascular mortality in those with functional impairment compared to those without (HR: 2.07, 95% CI: 1.30-3.30). However, there was no significant difference in cancer- and accident-related mortalities in NAFLD with or without depression.

CONCLUSIONS

Depression among individuals with NAFLD was associated with a higher risk for all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in the United States.

Restraint stress promotes nonalcoholic steatohepatitis by regulating the farnesoid X receptor/NLRP3 signaling pathway

Psychological stress promotes nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) development. However, the pathogenesis of psychological stress-induced NASH remains unclear. This study aims to explore the underlying mechanism of restraint stress-induced NASH, which mimics psychological stress, and to discover potential NASH candidates. Methionine choline deficient diet- and high fat diet-induced hepatosteatotic mice are subjected to restraint stress to induce NASH. The mice are administrated with Xiaoyaosan granules, NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inhibitors, farnesoid X receptor (FXR) agonists, or macrophage scavengers. Pathological changes and NLRP3 signaling in the liver are determined. These results demonstrate that restraint stress promotes hepatic inflammation and fibrosis in hepatosteatotic mice. Restraint stress increases the expressions of NLRP3, Caspase-1, Gasdermin D, interleukin-1β, cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase, and sterol 12α-hydroxylase and decreases the expression of FXR in NASH mice. Xiaoyaosan granules reverse hepatic inflammation and fibrosis and target FXR and NLRP3 signals. In addition, inhibition of NLRP3 reduces the NLRP3 inflammasome and liver damage in mice with restraint stress-induced NASH. Elimination of macrophages and activation of FXR also attenuate inflammation and fibrosis by inhibiting NLRP3 signaling. However, NLRP3 inhibitors or macrophage scavengers fail to affect the expression of FXR. In conclusion, restraint stress promotes NASH-related inflammation and fibrosis by regulating the FXR/NLRP3 signaling pathway. Xiaoyaosan granules, NLRP3 inhibitors, FXR agonists, and macrophage scavengers are potential candidates for the treatment of psychological stress-related NASH.

Depression and risk of gastrointestinal disorders: a comprehensive two-sample Mendelian randomization study of European ancestry

BACKGROUND

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is clinically documented to co-occur with multiple gastrointestinal disorders (GID), but the potential causal relationship between them remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate the potential causal relationship of MDD with 4 GID [gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), peptic ulcer disease (PUD), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)] using a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) design.

METHODS

We obtained genome-wide association data for MDD from a meta-analysis (N = 480 359), and for GID from the UK Biobank (N ranges: 332 601-486 601) and FinnGen (N ranges: 187 028-218 792) among individuals of European ancestry. Our primary method was inverse-variance weighted (IVW) MR, with a series of sensitivity analyses to test the hypothesis of MR. Individual study estimates were pooled using fixed-effect meta-analysis.

RESULTS

Meta-analyses IVW MR found evidence that genetically predicted MDD may increase the risk of GERD, IBS, PUD and NAFLD. Additionally, reverse MR found evidence of genetically predicted GERD or IBS may increase the risk of MDD.

CONCLUSIONS

Genetically predicted MDD may increase the risk of GERD, IBS, PUD and NAFLD. Genetically predicted GERD or IBS may increase the risk of MDD. The findings may help elucidate the mechanisms underlying the co-morbidity of MDD and GID. Focusing on GID symptoms in patients with MDD and emotional problems in patients with GID is important for the clinical management.

The bidirectional association of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease with depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a complex metabolic-inflammatory disease associated with poor outcomes and decreased quality of life. NAFLD is overrepresented in patients with psychiatric disorders like depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia; however, a comprehensive review on NAFLD and psychiatric disorders remains to be delineated. This review endeavors to investigate the association of NAFLD with psychiatric disorders, including shared pathogenesis and future clinical derivatives. Extant literature suggests that patients with psychiatric disorders (in particular, mood disorders) are more susceptible to the development of NAFLD due to multiple reasons, including but not limited to hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation, metabolic syndrome, and chronic perceived stress. Moreover, the clinical manifestations of mood disorders (e.g., anhedonia, psychomotor retardation, lifestyle modification, etc.), and potentially long-term treatment with weight-gaining agents, differentially affect these patients, making them more prone to NAFLD. Considering the increased morbidity associated with both mood disorders and NAFLD, our review recommends regular screenings for NAFLD in select patients with mood disorders exhibiting signs of increased risk (i.e., obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, or family history of NAFLD) for better diagnosis and holistic care of both potentially interrelated conditions.

Association between depression and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease/significant fibrosis

BACKGROUND

An association between depression and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) appears logical on the basis of previous observations linking depression to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. We aim to investigate the association between depression and MAFLD and significant fibrosis.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted on data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 2017 to March 2020 Pre-pandemic dataset. Depression and depression-related functional impairment were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). MAFLD, based on the criteria proposed by an international expert panel, and significant fibrosis were defined by transient elastography.

RESULTS

Of the 3327 individuals (mean age: 46.9 years, 50.2 % men), the prevalence of depression and functional impairment due to depression was higher among individuals with MAFLD or significant fibrosis than among those without. Individuals with depression were approximately 70 % more likely to have MAFLD than those without. In multivariable analyses, depression was associated with an increased risk of MAFLD (odds ratio [OR]: 1.77, 95 % confidence interval [CI]:1.33-2.36 for ≥263 dB/m and OR: 1.70, 95 % CI: 1.20-2.41 for ≥285 dB/m). These associations were more pronounced in postmenopausal women than premenopausal women. In terms of significant fibrosis, depression remained an independent predictor of significant fibrosis; however, it attenuated after adjustment for body mass index.

LIMITATIONS

Temporal causality and residual confounders could not be entirely investigated due to the study design.

CONCLUSIONS

Depression was independently associated with MAFLD and significant fibrosis in a nationally representative sample of adults in the US.

Associations of depression score with metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease and liver fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Growing evidence suggests a link between depression and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Recently, a change from NAFLD to metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has been proposed. The aim of this study was to determine whether depression scores are associated with newly defined MAFLD as well as liver fibrosis in the US general population.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study utilized data from the 2017-March 2020 cycle of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in the US. The depression score was assessed with the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Transient elastography was utilized to evaluate hepatic steatosis and fibrosis with controlled attenuation parameters and liver stiffness measurements, respectively. All the analyses accounted for the complex design parameters and sampling weights of the survey.

RESULTS

A total of 3263 eligible subjects aged 20 years and older were included. The estimated prevalence of mild and major depression was 17.0 % (95 % confidence interval [CI]: 14.8-19.3 %) and 7.1 % (6.1-8.1 %), respectively. For every one-unit increase in depression score, a subject was 1.05 (1.02-1.08) times more likely to have MAFLD. Compared to the minimal depression group, those with mild depression had an odds ratio (OR) of 1.54 (1.06-2.25) for MAFLD. The depression score was not associated with clinically significant liver fibrosis.

CONCLUSION

The depression score measured by PHQ-9 was independently associated with MAFLD among US adults.

LIMITATIONS

Causal relationship is not available due to the cross-sectional nature of the survey design.

Sex differences in the relationship between hepatic steatosis, mood and anxiety disorders

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), alcoholic liver disease (ALD), mental symptoms (mood, anxiety disorders and distress) by sex.

METHODS

This a cross-sectional study performed in working-age adults from a Health Promotion Center (primary care) in São Paulo, Brazil. Self-reported mental symptoms from rating scales (21-item Beck Anxiety Inventory, Patient Health Questionnaire-9, and K6 distress scale) were evaluated by hepatic steatosis (NAFLD and ALD). Logistic regression models estimated the association between hepatic steatosis subtypes and mental symptoms by Odds ratios (OR) adjusted by confounders in the total sample and sex stratified.

RESULTS

Among 7241 participants (70.5% men, median age: 45 years), the frequency of steatosis was of 30.7% (25.1% NAFLD), being higher in men than women (70.5% vs. 29.5%, p < 0.0001), regardless of the steatosis subtype. Metabolic risk factors were similar in both subtypes of steatosis, but not mental symptoms. Overall, NAFLD was inversely associated with anxiety (OR = 0.75, 95%CI 0.63-0.90) and positively associated with depression (OR = 1.17, 95%CI 1.00-1.38). On the other hand, ALD was positively associated with anxiety (OR = 1.51; 95%CI 1.15-2.00). In sex-stratified analyses, only men presented an association of anxiety symptoms with NAFLD (OR = 0.73; 95%CI 0.60-0.89) and ALD (OR = 1.60; 95%CI 1.18-2.16).

CONCLUSIONS

The complex association between different types of steatosis (NAFLD and ALD), mood and anxiety disorders indicates the need for a deeper understanding of their common causal pathways.

Intestinal permeability and its significance in psychiatric disorders - a narrative review and future perspectives

The topic of increased intestinal permeability and its impact on the human body is. increasingly being addressed by researchers. It is associated with disruption of the. intestinal barrier, leading to the "leaky gut" syndrome. This can be assessed by. classical methods, determining the concentration of orally administered tracer. molecules in urine or by using biomarkers such as LPS, LBP or zonulin in blood. plasma. The presence of bacterial endotoxins in the body causes inflammation. In this. article, we review research on increased intestinal permeability in psychiatric illness. mood disorders, schizophrenia, alcohol dependence, anxiety disorders,. neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. The results of the studies used. to assess intestinal permeability in different disease entities are presented. Possible. mechanisms for these interactions are the effects of chronic, low-grade inflammation. on the human brain, causing interruption of the brain blood barrier and dysfunction of. astrocytes and microglia. This affects brain function by reducing the number of. dopaminergic neurons, disrupting tryptophan metabolism and altering the amount of. GABA and glutamate. The links and mechanisms found may, in the future, allow earlier. detection of diseases and their targeted treatment.

Effects of COVID-19 Pandemic on Metabolic Status and Psychological Correlates of a Cohort of Italian NAFLD Outpatients

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a potentially progressive condition characterized by the presence of fat in more than 5% of hepatocytes, representing the hepatic expression of metabolic syndrome (MetS). A reduction of at least 5–7% in initial body weight improves the metabolic profile underlying NAFLD. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown on a cohort of non-advanced NAFLD Italian outpatients. We identified 43 patients with 3 available time point visits in our center: first visit (T0) when behavioral indications aimed at controlling MetS were provided, a pre-COVID visit (T1) and a post-COVID visit (T2). During the lockdown, an online compilation of validated psychological tests (SRQ-20, EQ5D, SF-12 and STAI) and a specifically formulated questionnaire for NAFLD was presented to our cohort and completed by 14 consenting patients. Patients who had lost more than 5% of the initial weight at T1 (9 subjects, 21%) maintained the results even at T2, with an overall reduction in BMI and liver stiffness; patients who had not lost the desired weight at T1 (34 subjects, 79%) displayed a further increase in BMI and visceral adiposity at T2. Of interest is that patients in the latter group reported signs of psychological suffering. Our data demonstrated that the setting of good counseling was effective in controlling the metabolic disorder underlying NAFLD in our cohort of outpatients. Given the need for patients to play an active role in the behavioral therapy for NAFLD, we advocate that a multidisciplinary approach be adopted, including a psychological support to obtain the best results over time.

Fermented Soybean Paste Attenuates Biogenic Amine-Induced Liver Damage in Obese Mice

Biogenic amines are cellular components produced by the decarboxylation of amino acids; however, excessive biogenic amine production causes adverse health problems. The relationship between hepatic damage and biogenic amine levels in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unclear. In this study, mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD) for 10 weeks to induce obesity, presenting early-stage of NAFLD. We administered histamine (20 mg/kg) + tyramine (100 mg/kg) via oral gavage for 6 days to mice with HFD-induced early-stage NAFLD. The results showed that combined histamine and tyramine administration increased cleaved PARP-1 and IL-1β in the liver, as well as MAO-A, total MAO, CRP, and AST/ALT levels. In contrast, the survival rate decreased in HFD-induced NAFLD mice. Treatment with manufactured or traditional fermented soybean paste decreased biogenically elevated hepatic cleaved PARP-1 and IL-1β expression and blood plasma MAO-A, CRP, and AST/ALT levels in HFD-induced NAFLD mice. Additionally, the biogenic amine-induced reduction in survival rate was alleviated by fermented soybean paste in HFD-induced NAFLD mice. These results show that biogenic amine-induced liver damage can be exacerbated by obesity and may adversely affect life conservation. However, fermented soybean paste can reduce biogenic amine-induced liver damage in NAFLD mice. These results suggest a beneficial effect of fermented soybean paste on biogenic amine-induced liver damage and provide a new research perspective on the relationship between biogenic amines and obesity.

Quercetin modulates the liver metabolic profile in a chronic unpredictable mild stress rat model based on metabolomics technology

Depression is the most prevalent psychiatric disease, and its pathogenesis is still unclear. Currently, studies on the pathogenesis of depression are mainly focused on the brain. The liver can modulate brain function via the liver-brain axis, indicating that the liver plays an important role in the development of depression. This study aims to explore the protective effect of quercetin against chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced metabolic changes and the corresponding mechanisms in the rat liver based on untargeted metabolomics technology. In this study, 96 male rats were divided into six groups: control, different doses of quercetin (10 mg per kg bw or 50 mg per kg bw), CUMS, and CUMS + different doses of quercetin. After 8 weeks of CUMS modeling, the liver samples were collected for metabolomics analysis. A total of 17 altered metabolites were identified, including D-glutamic acid, S-adenosylmethionine, lithocholylglycine, L-homocystine, prostaglandin PGE2, leukotriene E4, cholic acid, 5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid, taurochenodeoxycholic acid, S-adenosylhomocysteine, deoxycholic acid, folic acid, L-methionine, leukotriene C5, estriol-17-glucuronide, PE, and PC, indicating that methionine metabolism, bile acid metabolism, and phosphatidylcholine biosynthesis are the major pathways involved in CUMS-induced hepatic metabolic disorders. Hepatic methylation damage may play a role in the pathophysiology of depression, as evidenced by the first discovery of the abnormality of hepatic methionine metabolism. Abnormal changes in hepatic bile acids may provide stronger evidence for depression pathogenesis involving the microbiota-gut-brain axis, suggesting that the liver is involved in depression development and may be a treatment target. The quercetin treatment alleviated the CUMS-induced liver metabolism disorder, suggesting that quercetin may protect against depression by regulating liver metabolism.

Impact of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease-related metabolic state on depression

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), also recently referred as metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), is characterized by hepatocyte steatosis in the setting of metabolic risk conditions and in the absence of an underlying precursor, for instance alcohol consumption, hepatotropic viruses and hepatotoxic drugs. A possible association between NAFLD and depression has been proposed, owing to intersecting pathophysiological pathways. This narrative review aimed to summarize the current evidence that illustrate the potential pathophysiological and clinical linkage between NAFLD-related metabolic state and depression. Prefrontal cortex lesions are suggested to be a consequence of liver steatosis-associated systematic hyperinflammatory state, a phenomenon also occurring in depression. In addition, depressive symptoms are present in neurotransmitter imbalances. These abnormalities seem to be correlated with NAFLD/MAFLD, in terms of insulin resistance (IR), ammonia and gut dysbiosis' impact on serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline levels and gamma aminobutyric acid receptors. Furthermore, reduced levels of nesfatin-1 and copine-6-associated BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) levels have been considered as a probable link between NAFLD and depression. Regarding NAFLD-related gut dysbiosis, it stimulates mediators including lipopolysaccharides, short-chain fatty acids and bile acids, which play significant role in depression. Finally, western diet and IR, which are mainstay components of NAFLD/MAFLD, are, also, substantiated to affect neurotransmitters in hippocampus and produce neurotoxic lipids that contribute to neurologic dysfunction, and thus trigger emotional disturbances, mainly depressive symptoms.

Fatty liver disease in children (MAFLD/PeFLD Type 2): unique classification considerations and challenges

In children, fatty liver disease is a group of disorders that often overlaps with inherited metabolic disorders (IMDs), which requires prompt diagnosis and specific management. Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) or, formerly, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the hepatic component of a multisystemic disease that requires a positive criteria in metabolic dysfunction for diagnosis. However, in children, the diagnosis of MAFLD is one of the exclusions of an IMD [paediatric fatty liver disease (PeFLD) type 1] including the possibility that an IMD can be identified in the future following investigations that may be negative at the time. Therefore, while children with fatty liver with metabolic dysfunction could be classified as MAFLD (PeFLD type 2) and managed that way, those who do not fulfil the criteria for metabolic dysfunction should be considered separately bearing in mind the possibility of identifying a yet undiagnosed IMD (PeFLD type 3). This concept is ever more important in a world where MAFLD is the most common cause of liver disease in children and adolescents in whom about 7% are affected. The disease is only partially understood, and awareness is still lacking outside hepatology and gastroenterology. Despite its increasing pervasiveness, the management is far from a one-size-fits-all. Increasing complexities around the genetic, epigenetic, non-invasive modalities of assessment, psychosocial impacts, therapeutics, and natural history of the disease have meant that an individualised approach is required. This is where the challenge lies so that children with fatty liver are considered on their own merits. The purpose of this review is to give a clinical perspective of fatty liver disease in children with relevance to metabolic dysfunction.

Support Needs and Coping Strategies in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): A Multidisciplinary Approach to Potential Unmet Challenges beyond Pharmacological Treatment

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most frequently occurring chronic liver disease, affecting approximately 25–30% of the adult general population worldwide. NAFLD reflects excess hepatic accumulation of fat in the absence of increased alcohol intake, and, due to its close association with obesity, is frequently referred to as the ‘hepatic manifestation’ of metabolic syndrome. Indeed, a high percentage of individuals with NAFLD present with a combination of the cardio-metabolic comorbidities that are associated with the metabolic syndrome. In addition to its well-established link with the metabolic syndrome and increased risk for cardiovascular disease, NAFLD has also been associated with certain mental health issues (e.g., depression and stress). Although this link is now being increasingly recognized, there are still unmet needs regarding the holistic management of patients with NAFLD, which could further contribute to feelings of social isolation and loneliness. The latter conditions are also increasingly reported to pose a substantial risk to overall health and quality of life. To date, there is limited research that has explored these issues among patients with NAFLD, despite existing data which indicate that perceived loneliness and isolation may pose an additional health risk. Notably, many features associated with NAFLD have been related to these concepts, such as perceived stigma, fatigue, stress, and confusion regarding this diagnosis. As such, this review aimed to assess such potential problems faced by patients with NAFLD, and to explore the possibility of unmet support needs which could lead to perceived social isolation. Moreover, the importance of a compassionate approach towards such patients is discussed, together with potential coping strategies. Future research directions and the need for a multidisciplinary approach are also highlighted.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and mental illness: Mechanisms linking mood, metabolism and medicines

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common cause of chronic liver disease in the world and one of the leading indications for liver transplantation. It is one of the many manifestations of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome as well as an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. There is growing evidence linking the incidence of NAFLD with psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and depression mechanistically via genetic, metabolic, inflammatory and environmental factors including smoking and psychiatric medications. Indeed, patients prescribed antipsychotic medications, regardless of diagnosis, have higher incidence of NAFLD than population norms. The mechanistic pharmacology of antipsychotic-associated NAFLD is beginning to emerge. In this review, we aim to discuss the pathophysiology of NAFLD including its risk factors, insulin resistance and systemic inflammation as well as its intersection with psychiatric illnesses.

Cerebrolysin Use in Patients with Liver Damage-A Translational Study

The treatment of acute life-threatening events in patients suffering from chronic pathologies is problematic, as physicians need to consider multisystemic drug effects. Regarding Cerebrolysin, a Sonic Hedgehog signaling pathway amplifier and one of the few approved neurotrophic treatments for stroke patients, concerns of excessive Hedgehog pathway activation that could accelerate NAFLD progression to cirrhosis seem valid. We investigated stroke patients treated with Cerebrolysin that presented elevated levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and/or alanine aminotransferase (ALT). We also investigated the efficiency of Cerebrolysin in reversing the neurogenesis inhibition within the hippocampus in a mouse model of NAFLD by evaluating behavior and histological outcomes. NeuN, BrdU and Iba1 positive signals in the cortex and hippocampus of the animals were also observed. Clinically, Cerebrolysin improved AST levels in a majority of stroke patients with hepatic damage. The same treatment in an experimental setup was able to reverse anxiety-like behavior in MCD mice, reducing their freezing time from 333.61 ± 21.81 s in MCD animals to 229.17 ± 26.28 in treated ones. The use of Cerebrolysin did not improve short-term memory nor rescued cell multiplication in the hippocampus after MCD food intake. Understanding the neuroprotective and neurotrophic effects that drugs have on NAFLD patients can significantly contribute to a suitable therapeutic approach.

Dietary Recommendations for the Management of Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): A Nutritional Geometry Perspective

Diet could be both culprit and solution of NAFLD. Dietary modifications have been associated with histological features improvement in NAFLD. The Western diet was related to a greater risk of disease progression while the Mediterranean diet (MD) could promote regression of histological lesions. Modifications in the nutrient composition seems to have lesser impact on NAFLD than dietary modifications. An intrinsic interaction between nutrients in the diet support a specific effect not seen when added separately. Dietary modifications should focus on promoting weight loss but also look for patterns that are able to promote histological improvement. Although several micronutrients' deficit has been related to NAFLD progression, prescribing these micronutrients' supplementation did not reach a positive impact. However, an enriching diet with specific nutrients could be useful, like olive oil supplemented in MD. Geometry of nutrition defines a framework to better understand the interaction between nutrients, foods, and dietetic pattern in the model of diseases and how we could approach taking into consideration the interaction between meals and disease features. After analyzing baseline diet and histological lesions, we could calculate the distance to optimal diet and to promote changes in lifestyle to reach all these goals. A standard MD menu would be recommended.

Imipramine activates FAM3A-FOXA2-CPT2 pathway to ameliorate hepatic steatosis

Mitochondrial FAM3A has been revealed to be a viable target for treating diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). However, its distinct mechanism in ameliorating hepatic steatosis remained unrevealed. High-throughput RNA sequencing revealed that carnitine palmityl transferase 2 (CPT2), one of the key enzymes for lipid oxidation, is the downstream molecule of FAM3A signaling pathway in hepatocytes. Intensive study demonstrated that FAM3A-induced ATP release activated P2 receptor to promote the translocation of calmodulin (CaM) from cytoplasm into nucleus, where it functioned as a co-activator of forkhead box protein A2 (FOXA2) to promote the transcription of CPT2, increasing free fatty acid oxidation and reducing lipid deposition in hepatocytes. Furthermore, antidepressant imipramine activated FAM3A-ATP-P2 receptor-CaM-FOXA2-CPT2 pathway to reduce lipid deposition in hepatocytes. In FAM3A-deficient hepatocytes, imipramine failed to activate CaM-FOXA2-CPT2 axis to increase lipid oxidation. Imipramine administration significantly ameliorated hepatic steatosis, hyperglycemia and obesity of obese mice mainly by activating FAM3A-ATP-CaM-FOXA2-CPT2 pathway in liver and thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue (BAT). In FAM3A-deficient mice fed on high-fat-diet, imipramine treatment failed to correct the dysregulated lipid and glucose metabolism, and activate thermogenesis in BAT. In conclusion, imipramine activates FAM3A-ATP-CaM-FOXA2-CPT2 pathway to ameliorate steatosis. For depressive patients complicated with metabolic disorders, imipramine may be recommended in priority as antidepressive drug.

Linking Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Brain Disease: Focusing on Bile Acid Signaling

A metabolic illness known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), affects more than one-quarter of the world's population. Bile acids (BAs), as detergents involved in lipid digestion, show an abnormal metabolism in patients with NAFLD. However, BAs can affect other organs as well, such as the brain, where it has a neuroprotective effect. According to a series of studies, brain disorders may be extrahepatic manifestations of NAFLD, such as depression, changes to the cerebrovascular system, and worsening cognitive ability. Consequently, we propose that NAFLD affects the development of brain disease, through the bile acid signaling pathway. Through direct or indirect channels, BAs can send messages to the brain. Some BAs may operate directly on the central Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) and the G protein bile acid-activated receptor 1 (GPBAR1) by overcoming the blood-brain barrier (BBB). Furthermore, glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) 19 are released from the intestine FXR and GPBAR1 receptors, upon activation, both of which send signals to the brain. Inflammatory, systemic metabolic disorders in the liver and brain are regulated by the bile acid-activated receptors FXR and GPBAR1, which are potential therapeutic targets. From a bile acid viewpoint, we examine the bile acid signaling changes in NAFLD and brain disease. We also recommend the development of dual GPBAR1/FXR ligands to reduce side effects and manage NAFLD and brain disease efficiently.

Association of serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor with hepatic enzymes, AST/ALT ratio, and FIB-4 index in middle-aged and older women

Substantial evidence suggests an important role of liver function in brain health. Liver function is clinically assessed by measuring the activity of hepatic enzymes in the peripheral blood. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is an important regulator of brain function. Therefore, we hypothesized that blood BDNF levels are associated with liver function and fibrosis. To test this hypothesis, in this cross-sectional study, we investigated whether serum BDNF concentration is associated with liver enzyme activity, aspartate aminotransferase (AST)/ alanine aminotransferase (ALT) ratio, and fibrosis-4 (FIB-4) index in middle-aged and older women. We found that serum BDNF level showed a significant positive association with ALT and γ-glutamyltranspeptidase (GGT) activity and negative association with FIB-4 index, and a trend of negative association with the AST/ALT ratio after adjustment for age. Additionally, these associations remained statistically significant even after adjustment for body mass index (BMI) and fasting blood glucose level. These results demonstrate associations of serum BDNF levels with liver enzymes and hepatic fibrosis-related indices, which may underlie liver-brain interactions.

Assessment of mental health in patients with chronic liver disease

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ATP Secretion and Metabolism in Regulating Pancreatic Beta Cell Functions and Hepatic Glycolipid Metabolism

Diabetes (DM), especially type 2 diabetes (T2DM) has become one of the major diseases severely threatening public health worldwide. Islet beta cell dysfunctions and peripheral insulin resistance including liver and muscle metabolic disorder play decisive roles in the pathogenesis of T2DM. Particularly, increased hepatic gluconeogenesis due to insulin deficiency or resistance is the central event in the development of fasting hyperglycemia. To maintain or restore the functions of islet beta cells and suppress hepatic gluconeogenesis is crucial for delaying or even stopping the progression of T2DM and diabetic complications. As the key energy outcome of mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, adenosine triphosphate (ATP) plays vital roles in the process of almost all the biological activities including metabolic regulation. Cellular adenosine triphosphate participates intracellular energy transfer in all forms of life. Recently, it had also been revealed that ATP can be released by islet beta cells and hepatocytes, and the released ATP and its degraded products including ADP, AMP and adenosine act as important signaling molecules to regulate islet beta cell functions and hepatic glycolipid metabolism via the activation of P2 receptors (ATP receptors). In this review, the latest findings regarding the roles and mechanisms of intracellular and extracellular ATP in regulating islet functions and hepatic glycolipid metabolism would be briefly summarized and discussed.

Fatty Liver and the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic: Health Behaviors, Social Factors, and Telemedicine Satisfaction in Vulnerable Populations

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted health-related behaviors that influence fatty liver disease (FLD) management. We evaluated the impact of the pandemic on FLD management and satisfaction with care delivery in this population. In the San Francisco safety-net hepatology clinics, we evaluated health-related behaviors and factors associated with self-reported weight gain during the COVID-19 pandemic as well as satisfaction with telemedicine in adults with FLD by using multivariable modeling. From June 1, 2020, to May 5, 2021, 111 participants were enrolled. Median age was 52 years, 30% were men, 63% were Hispanic, 21% were Asian/Pacific Islander, and 9% were White. Eating habits were unchanged or healthier for 80%, physical activity decreased in 51%, 34% reported weight gain, and 5% reported increased alcohol intake. Forty-five percent had severe depressive symptoms, 38% in those without diagnosed depression and 60% of individuals with heavy alcohol use. On multivariable analysis, decreased physical activity (odds ratio [OR], 4.8) and heavy alcohol use (OR, 3.4) were associated with weight gain (all P < 0.05). Among those with telemedicine visits (n = 66), 62% reported being very satisfied. Hispanic ethnicity was associated with a 0.8-unit decrease in the telemedicine satisfaction score (P = 0.048) when adjusting for sex, age, and pandemic duration. Conclusion: During the pandemic, decreased physical activity and heavy alcohol use were most influential on self-reported weight gain in FLD. Maintenance of healthy eating and increased physical activity, alcohol cessation counseling, and mental health services are critical in preventing poor FLD-associated outcomes during the pandemic recovery. Dissatisfaction with telemedicine should be explored further to ensure equitable care, especially among the vulnerable Hispanic population.

Metabolic-associated Fatty Liver Disease (MAFLD): A Multi-systemic Disease Beyond the Liver

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a multisystemic clinical condition that presents with a wide spectrum of extrahepatic manifestations, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular diseases, chronic kidney disease, extrahepatic malignancies, cognitive disorders, and polycystic ovarian syndrome. Among NAFLD patients, the most common mortality etiology is cardiovascular disorders, followed by extrahepatic malignancies, diabetes mellitus, and liver-related complications. Furthermore, the severity of extrahepatic diseases is parallel to the severity of NAFLD. In clinical practice, awareness of the associations of concomitant diseases is of major importance for initiating prompt and timely screening and multidisciplinary management of the disease spectrum. In 2020, a consensus from 22 countries redefined the disease as metabolic (dysfunction)-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), which resulted in the redefinition of the corresponding population. Although the patients diagnosed with MAFLD and NAFLD mostly overlap, the MAFLD and NAFLD populations are not identical. In this review, we compared the associations of key extrahepatic diseases between NAFLD and MAFLD.

Shuxie-1 Decoction Alleviated CUMS -Induced Liver Injury via IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 Signaling

Introduction: Chronic stress has been shown to cause liver damage in addition to psychological depression. Besides, drug-induced liver injury is frequently caused by antidepressants. Shuxie-1 decoction (SX-1) is a formula of traditional Chinese medicine commonly used in nourishing liver blood, and relieving depression. However, the underlying molecular mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, this study was designed to explore the effects and mechanisms of SX-1 in treating chronic stress-induced depression as well as liver injury.

Methods: Chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) was applied to male Wistar rats for 4 weeks, with or without administration of SX-1 at low-dose and high-dose for 6 weeks, using Fluoxetine (Flu) as a positive control. Body weight was monitored once every 2 weeks. In the sixth week, the sugar preference test and open field test were carried out to evaluate the depression status. After that, the serum and liver tissues were collected. The quality control of SX-1 decoctions and drug-containing serum was controlled by UHPLC-QE-MS. The cell viability was measured by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK8). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Elisa), Western Blot and immunohistochemistrical staining was obtained to detect the protein levels in the plasma and the hepatic tissues, respectively.

Results: CUMS led to decreased 1) body weight, 2) the preference for sugar water, 3) the desire to explore in open field, and increased serum levels of corticosterone. All these factors were completely reversed by SX-1 treatment. Hematoxylin-eosin staining (HE) showed that SX-1 improved the hepatocyte vacuolization in CUMS treated rats, decreased the serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and the deposition of type I collagen (Col I) in hepatocytes as well. CUMS increased the levels of hepatic Interleukin-6 (IL-6), and provoked the activation of Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), which was abrogated by SX-1 treatment. Cobalt chloride (CoCl₂) increased the protein expression of IL-6 and p-STAT3 in AML12 cells. Besides, nuclear pyknosis was observed under electron microscope, which were recovered after rat SX serum.

Conclusion: SX-1 effectively ameliorated CUMS-induced depression-like behaviors as well as hepatic injuries, probably by the blockade of hepatic IL-6/JAK2/STAT3 signaling.

Gut-derived systemic inflammation as a driver of depression in chronic liver disease

Depression and chronic liver disease (CLD) are important causes of disability, morbidity and mortality worldwide and their prevalence continues to rise. The rate of depression in CLD is high compared to that of the general population and is comparable to the increased rates observed in other medical comorbidities and chronic inflammatory conditions. Notably, a comorbid diagnosis of depression has a detrimental effect on outcomes in cirrhosis. Systemic inflammation is pivotal in cirrhosis-associated immune dysfunction - a phenomenon present in advanced CLD (cirrhosis) and implicated in the development of complications, organ failure, disease progression, increased infection rates and poor outcome. The presence of systemic inflammation is also well-documented in a cohort of patients with depression; peripheral cytokine signals can result in neuroinflammation, behavioural change and depressive symptoms via neural mechanisms, cerebral endothelial cell and circumventricular organ signalling, and peripheral immune cell-to-brain signalling. Gut dysbiosis has been observed in both patients with cirrhosis and depression. It leads to intestinal barrier dysfunction resulting in increased bacterial translocation, in turn activating circulating immune cells, leading to cytokine production and systemic inflammation. A perturbed gut-liver-brain axis may therefore explain the high rates of depression in patients with cirrhosis. The underlying mechanisms explaining the critical relationship between depression and cirrhosis remain to be fully elucidated. Several other psychosocial and biological factors are likely to be involved, and therefore the cause is probably multifactorial. However, the role of the dysfunctional gut-liver-brain axis as a driver of gut-derived systemic inflammation requires further exploration and consideration as a target for the treatment of depression in patients with cirrhosis.

Depressive symptoms in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease are identified by perturbed lipid and lipoprotein metabolism

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and depression are common disorders and have bidirectional contributing relationships to metabolic syndrome. We aimed to determine whether a fasting serum signature of recent, self-reported depressive symptoms could be identified in a heterogeneous NAFLD cohort using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics integrated with clinical chemistry. Serum nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) metabolite profiles and corresponding clinical chemistry were compared between patients with depressive symptoms in the last 12-months (n = 81) and patients without recent depressive symptoms (n = 137 controls) using multivariate statistics. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) of the biochemical and metabolomic data identified NAFLD patients with recent depression with a cross-validated accuracy of 61.5%, independent of age, sex, medication, and other comorbidities. This led to the development of a diagnostic algorithm with AUC 0.83 for future testing in larger clinical cohorts. Serum triglycerides, VLDL cholesterol, and the inflammatory biomarker GlycA were key metabolites increased in patients with recent depressive symptoms, while serum glutamine level was reduced. Here, serum NMR metabolite analysis provides a link between disturbed lipid metabolism, inflammation, and active mental health issues in NAFLD, irrespective of disease severity.

The association between serum albumin and depression in chronic liver disease may differ by liver histology

BACKGROUND

There are conflicting results regarding the association between chronic liver disease (CLD) and depression and the underlying biological mechanisms are lack of investigation. To address the impact of depression and its effects on the management of CLD, its biological marker is critical to be identified. The present study explored the association between serum albumin and depression in CLD patients and whether the association varied in different liver histological stages.

METHODS

Based on the United States National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2017-2018, the data of serum albumin and depressive symptoms from 627 participants with CLD were used. Depression symptoms were assessed with the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). We used multivariate linear regression to evaluate the association between serum albumin and PHQ-9 scores. Stratified analysis was performed according to the liver histology examined by vibration controlled transient elastography.

RESULTS

Serum albumin level was inversely associated with PHQ-9 scores in the multivariate regression model after adjusting for mainly potential confounders (β = - 1.113, 95% CI: - 2.065 to - 0.162, P = 0.0221). In the subgroup analysis stratified by gender, controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and liver stiffness measurement (LSM), the inverse association remained significant in female (β = - 2.002, 95% CI: - 3.515 to - 0.489, P = 0.0100), patients with CAP < 274 dB/m (β = - 2.215, 95% CI: - 3.621 to - 0.808, P = 0.0023) and patients with LSM ≥8.2 kPa (β = - 4.074, 95% CI: - 6.237 to - 1.911, P = 0.0003). Moreover, the association was much stronger when the serum albumin was higher than 3.4 g/dL among patients with LSM ≥8.2 kPa (β = - 4.835, 95% CI: - 7.137 to - 2.533, P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed an inverse association between serum albumin and depression in CLD patients and this association differed according to liver histological changes. Serum albumin could be a warning marker for depressive symptoms in CLD patients. It is essential for taking corresponding intervention strategies.