Significance of FXR agonists in MASLD treatment: a deep dive into lipid alteration by analytical techniques

Abstract

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is rapidly emerging as a global health crisis, affecting over 30% of the population and demanding urgent attention. This redefined condition, previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), reflects a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between metabolic dysfunction and liver health. At the heart of MASLD lies the troubling accumulation of triglycerides (TGs) in hepatocytes, which precipitates insulin resistance and oxidative stress, ultimately leading to more severe forms like metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). Excitingly, recent research has spotlighted the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) as a groundbreaking therapeutic target. FXR not only regulates lipid metabolism but also combats inflammation and insulin resistance, making it a potential game-changer in the fight against MASLD. With only one FDA-approved drug, resmetirom, currently available, the exploration of FXR agonists opens new avenues for innovative treatments that could revolutionize patient care. By harnessing the power of FXR to restore metabolic balance and integrating advanced strategies like lipidomics and fatty acid profiling, we stand on the brink of transforming how we approach MASLD and its associated complications, paving the way for a healthier future. This review delves into the promising role of FXR in combating MASLD and its implications for related metabolic disorders, emphasizing the urgency for advanced strategies to detect and manage this burgeoning epidemic.

Keywords

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) / metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) / non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) / non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) / farnesoid X receptor (FXR) / fatty acids / analytical techniques / lipid quantification

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