The Gut-Liver Axis in MASLD: Microbiome, Metabolism, Disease Progression and Therapeutic Pathways

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has become one of the most prevalent chronic liver diseases globally, as it closely intertwines with metabolic disorders such as obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. The gut-liver axis has gained considerable attention in recent studies for its vital role in the development and progression of MASLD. Within this framework, the gut microbiota significantly influences liver response to metabolic stress, inflammation, and fibrosis through its metabolic and immune impacts. Disruptions in the gut microbiome, termed dysbiosis, are implicated in MASLD pathogenesis, notably affecting liver function and the systemic metabolic environment.

The primary goal of this Research Topic is to expand the understanding of gut-liver communication mechanisms and their contribution to MASLD. It aims to identify novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets by exploring interactions among the microbiome, metabolism, and liver disease progression. The objective is to delve into microbiome alterations leading to metabolic dysfunction within MASLD, clarify the molecular mechanisms driving such interactions, and pinpoint therapeutic strategies to alleviate liver damage by modulating the gut microbiome. Ultimately, the aim is to advance precision medicine for MASLD management by emphasizing microbiome-targeted therapies and personalized treatment approaches.

Focusing on contemporary advancements in this field, this Research Topic establishes boundaries to include the latest advancements and welcomes contributions on topics including, but not limited to:
o Influence of gut microbiota on liver fat deposition, inflammation, and metabolic dysregulation in MASLD pathogenesis.
o Impact of dysbiosis on hepatic immune responses and metabolism in gut-liver interactions and immune modulation.
o Role of diet in modulating the microbiome and MASLD progression through dietary interventions and the gut-liver axis.
o Use of omics approaches to explore molecular mechanisms of gut-liver communication.
o The contribution of microbiome-based biomarkers to MASLD disease progression.
o Potential of microbiome-targeted therapies, including probiotics and prebiotics, in MASLD treatment.
o Influence of gut microbiota in the link between dysbiosis and liver-related diseases like cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma.