Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Genetic Pathways in Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and NASH

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) and its more severe form, Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), are major contributors to liver disease worldwide, with increasing prevalence due to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Understanding the genetic pathways involved in the development and progression of NAFLD and NASH is crucial for identifying high-risk individuals, improving diagnostics, and developing targeted therapies.

Genetic factors play a central role in the onset and progression of NAFLD and NASH. Several studies have identified genetic polymorphisms that influence susceptibility to these diseases, particularly genes involved in lipid metabolism, inflammation, and fibrosis. For instance, variants in the PNPLA3 gene have been associated with an increased risk of liver fat accumulation and progression to NASH and cirrhosis. Other genes, such as TM6SF2 and MBOAT7, are also implicated in modulating liver fat storage, inflammation, and fibrosis.

This track will focus on the latest research uncovering the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that drive the progression of NAFLD to NASH, exploring potential biomarkers for early diagnosis and novel genetic targets for therapeutic intervention. Understanding these pathways will help pave the way for personalized treatment strategies to address this growing global health issue.