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Vitamin D and Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD): Novel Mechanistic Insights.
- Source :
-
International Journal of Molecular Sciences . May2024, Vol. 25 Issue 9, p4901. 21p. - Publication Year :
- 2024
-
Abstract
- Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is an increasingly prevalent condition characterized by abnormal fat accumulation in the liver, often associated with metabolic disorders. Emerging evidence suggests a potential link between vitamin D deficiency and the development and progression of MASLD. The current review provides a concise overview of recent studies uncovering novel mechanistic insights into the interplay between vitamin D and MASLD. Several epidemiological studies have highlighted a significant association between low vitamin D levels and an increased risk of MASLD. Vitamin D, traditionally known for its role in bone health, has now been recognized as a key player in various physiological processes, including immune regulation and inflammation. Experimental studies using animal models have demonstrated that vitamin D deficiency exacerbates liver steatosis and inflammation, suggesting a potential protective role against MASLD. Mechanistically, vitamin D appears to modulate MASLD through multiple pathways. Firstly, the vitamin D receptor (VDR) is abundantly expressed in liver cells, indicating a direct regulatory role in hepatic function. Activation of the VDR has been shown to suppress hepatic lipid accumulation and inflammation, providing a mechanistic basis for the observed protective effects. Additionally, vitamin D influences insulin sensitivity, a critical factor in MASLD pathogenesis. Improved insulin sensitivity may mitigate the excessive accumulation of fat in the liver, thus attenuating MASLD progression. In parallel, vitamin D exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines implicated in MASLD pathophysiology. Experimental evidence suggests that the immunomodulatory effects of vitamin D extend to the liver, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, key drivers of MASLD, and the likelihood of hepatocyte injury and fibrosis. Understanding the complex interplay between vitamin D and MASLD provides a basis for exploring targeted therapeutic strategies and preventive interventions. As vitamin D deficiency is a modifiable risk factor, addressing this nutritional concern may prove beneficial in mitigating the burden of MASLD and associated metabolic disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 16616596
- Volume :
- 25
- Issue :
- 9
- Database :
- Academic Search Index
- Journal :
- International Journal of Molecular Sciences
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 177183246
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25094901